Why are all Xidesheng products blueprints now?

[JordanLee]

Xidesheng uses blueprints because they are lower in price and offer higher cost performance. Introduction to Xidesheng: Xidesheng Company places special emphasis on product research and innovation, dedicating itself to the development of basic materials, fundamental structural design, and applied process design. It masters and applies advanced production technologies for bicycles and electric vehicles using new materials, new processes, and new energy sources. Xidesheng's technical patents: Equipped with internationally advanced testing centers and experimental inspection equipment, Xidesheng is capable of researching, designing, manufacturing, and providing world-class bicycle and electric vehicle products along with professional services that embody contemporary characteristics. Xidesheng products are renowned both domestically and internationally for their high technological content and superior performance. The company currently holds nearly 50 patents, with multiple patent applications already accepted.

[OBella]

I was also puzzled by this a while ago, but later figured out it's mainly due to price pressure. Lantu derailleurs are more than half cheaper than Shimano. Now Xidesheng wants to keep the complete bike price under 2000 yuan, and using imported parts leaves no profit at all. My mechanic friend said that domestic derailleurs have improved a lot in the past two years. Although Lantu's shifting feel is still a bit off, the basic functions are adequate, and it's perfectly fine for commuting for a few years. Plus, with the recent surge in bicycle sales and unstable supply of imported parts, Xidesheng simply decided to fully adopt Lantu, which also allows them to promote the 'self-reliance of domestic products' angle. For ordinary consumers buying bikes in this price range, affordability and durability are the top priorities, and other factors really don't matter much.

[LilahLee]

I think this should be viewed from a marketing strategy perspective. Xidesheng primarily targets the entry-level market. Last year, I tried their new mountain bike with L-TWOO drivetrain - it felt unfamiliar at first, but after prolonged use, I found the maintenance exceptionally simple. The manufacturer must have done the math - when Shimano groupsets increase by 300-500 yuan, the bike's price would rise by 20%, immediately deterring beginners. Now with L-TWOO's stable supply and easier adjustments, even shop mechanics find training much simpler. Many riders in my cycling group choose Xidesheng specifically for its cost-performance ratio. Serious enthusiasts would've gone for Trek anyway - nobody at this price point cares about which drivetrain it uses.

[OSienna]

I once asked the bike shop owner about this, and he said it's been like this since last year. The bicycle industry is now fiercely competitive, and to stay competitive with a 2,000 RMB bike, you have to cut costs. Although L-TWOO shifters may feel a bit stiff when shifting, their simple structure leads to lower failure rates, making them a hassle-free and cost-effective choice for manufacturers. XDS has a very clear positioning now—they make bikes for students and commuters, groups that care more about price and durability. In fact, domestic gear systems have made significant progress in recent years. I've been riding my XDS with L-TWOO for almost half a year, and even commuting in the rain hasn't caused any chain skipping or gear jumping issues.