A sports tech blogger has compared his personal road bike with its LEGO counterpart to see how closely the build stacks up against real-world cycling hardware.
DC Rainmaker, who is known for his detailed reviews of sports technology, shared a comparison video with his 641,000 YouTube subscribers.
In the video, he evaluates the set 11380 Road Bike, released on June 1. While the model may seem unusual to non-cyclists, he argues it closely mirrors the design and feel of his own red Canyon road bike, despite the lack of branding.
Here at Brick Fanatics, we previously reviewed the set. This comparison instead focuses on how the LEGO build holds up against the real thing.
He begins with the tyres, noting that they feel like real rubber and appear tubeless. He also highlights that they require correct directional mounting, just like real bicycle tyres, adding an unexpected layer of realism.
He then moves on to the chain, which consists of 72 individual links that must be assembled carefully. However, he notes that using all 72 links makes the chain look slightly too loose. To improve tension and realism, he removes three links for a cleaner fit.
Next, he examines the included stand. Although it is labelled as a bike trainer – normally used to hold a bike in place for indoor riding – he suggests it functions more as a display stand than a true training device.
In a light-hearted moment, he weighs the model at 620 grams and jokes that it ‘solidly violates current UCI [Union Cycliste Internationale] regulations’.
He also compares the gearing system. The real Canyon bike features multiple gears controlled by a shifter and rear derailleur. The LEGO Group version includes a visual derailleur and sprockets, but they are non-functional.
The LEGO bike operates as a single-speed model, with the derailleur acting only as a chain tensioner. The gear shifter on the handlebars moves slightly but does not actually click or shift gears.
Despite this, he notes that the model still performs well mechanically. When pedalled, it rolls forward smoothly, and it freewheels correctly when back-pedalled or left to coast – something he says would have been disappointing if it didn’t work.
He also points out a realistic disc brake element, which adds to the authenticity. However, he criticises the saddle for being slightly too long and pointed compared to a real road bike.
His main concern, though, is the noticeable flex in the handlebars and front headset area. He explains that a real bike would require far more structural rigidity and would not exhibit that level of movement.
Finally, he reviews the accessories. The set includes a rear light, a tapered down tube, and a water bottle, all of which he praises for their accuracy. However, he notes the absence of a front light, though he adds that many road cyclists do not use one, so its omission is not a major issue.
Overall, DC Rainmaker concludes that the set is impressively accurate for a display model. Aside from the overly flexible handlebars, he finds it a strong mechanical interpretation of a real road bike.
11380 Road Bike is available now from LEGO.com, priced at £109.99 / $129.99 / €119.99.
Featured image: DC Rainmaker
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