Youth Road Racer

My son is moving up to 2nd year C cat in 2025 and looking to be competitive in national races. We've previously gotten by on 'do it all' bikes - he's currently riding a Giant TCX that can be used for CX in the winter, but the frame is on the heavier side. I'm looking to build something up using parts we already have (sans frameset), with some minor adaptations for youth racing (mainly due to gear restrictions).

Frame - hopefully something carbon, perhaps this, maybe something second hand? Otherwise a lighter weight AL frameset suitable for discs.
Groupset - I have a full GRX 1x, hydraulic disc gruppo that can mostly be re-used with some adaptations.
Chainring - Needs to be 34T (with 12T smallest sprocket) or 40T (with 14T smallest sprocket) for C gearing. I'm leaning towards 34 as there's more options for the cassette, without having to block off gears. Also means when he moves up to B category I could just replace the chainring with a 36T.
Cassette - Been hearing good things about ZTTO/ZRACE options from ali express.
Wheels - I have some Mavic Aksium wheels that will do for a start. Probably first upgrade after the initial build will be Chinese carbon wheels. Youth racers are restricted to 35mm depth.

Misc - Ideally I would put on some 36cm wide bars

I'm looking to build it up myself mostly, would be my first time so also need to invest in some tools!

I would just try to find a second hand bike that fits him. Don't overthink it. How old is he?

I think you make a fair argument and that's what I did for his past season. But for the cost of a frame, chainring, cassette and some other small bits I probably wouldn't get the same standard of complete bike at the end - I'm also thinking about peace of mind around the condition of everything & warranties.

Edit: re: sizings, he's had a good growth spurt recently and the frame I'm looking at is probably top end of what fits him now - should be able to accommodate him for a couple of seasons at least by changing saddle height, position & stem length.

Have you looked at Chinese carbon?
Carbonda or velobuild?

That was my backup option as the mark-up on western branded carbon framesets is often pretty crazy.

I went for the cinelli in the end, will post up some pics once it arrives.

Jazzy frame! Will make a nice change from the usual race bikes

Frameset has arrived, paint looks really good in the flesh and all the key bits seem to be well finished.

This isn't his Christmas present so it'll be in storage until early next year when I can get all the tools and extras together (e.g. BB - any recommendations on BSA Shimano style BBs?)

1 Attachment

Just a Shimano SM-BBR60

Cheers 👍