Use RD-01 as a photographed 700C aluminium drop-bar starting point. Before accepting a first sample, agree who will ride it, which frame sizes and contact points are proposed, the exact tyre and brake combination, and what a dealer must service. Record the sample's actual measurements and part references. The photo alone does not confirm fit, clearance, braking performance or market approval.
This guide is for importers, distributors and private-label teams considering the RD-01 road reference. It addresses the first physical sample, before the later production-release approval pack. RD-01 is shown as a road reference; a gravel claim would require a separately defined use case and verified build.
Define the rider before debating components
Write down the selling country, intended paved-road use, target rider and the channel that will assemble and support the bicycle. Ask for a geometry chart for every proposed frame size rather than choosing a size run from the photographed bike. On the sample, record saddle height, handlebar position, reach to the controls and clearance observations for the intended rider. One person's comfortable ride does not validate every size.
Freeze one reviewable build
Request a revisioned sample sheet naming the frame and fork, wheel and tyre, brake system, drivetrain, cockpit and finishing parts actually fitted. Photograph component markings and note any substitute. Ask for measured tyre clearance with that exact tyre and wheel. A nominal 700C wheel label does not establish fit for another tyre width or a mixed-surface claim.
| Decision | RD-01 sample evidence to request | Open until checked |
|---|---|---|
| Size and position | Geometry by proposed size; measured cockpit and saddle setup; intended rider. | Whether the size run serves the actual customer range. |
| Wheel and brake | Exact rim, tyre and brake references; measured clearance and adjustment record. | Compatibility of replacement tyres and brake parts. |
| Dealer support | Hanger, brake wear-part, wheel and headset references; assembly instructions. | Whether the channel can source and fit service parts. |
| Retail presentation | Finish proof, label positions, manual language plan and packed-sample photos. | Final market information and packaging approval. |
Ask the dealer to review the sample
Give the sample and parts sheet to a dealer or service lead. Can they identify the replacement hanger and brake wear parts? Are wheel removal and normal adjustments documented for the proposed build? Keep their questions in the same revision log. This is a purchase gate, not a claim that RD-01 has passed a service test.
Keep market documents tied to the final build
Ask who will prepare product identification, instructions, safety information and any market-specific technical file for the destination country. For EU sales, the General Product Safety Regulation sets obligations for product identification and technical documentation. For US sales, the CPSC bicycle rule page points to 16 CFR Part 1512. The responsible importer should confirm obligations for the final SKU. No document or approval for RD-01 is asserted here.
Send a useful first-sample brief
State the destination country, road-rider use, proposed size range and dealer service channel. Name RD-01, then request the current build revision, size geometry, tyre and brake details, service-part references and a photo/measurement plan. Ask the project team to mark unknowns before quotation. For road-versus-gravel range planning, use the Road & Gravel page.
