Specialized Tricross gravel conversion (my version)

I see a lot of Tricross gravel conversions on Reddit. I just wanted to share how I did mine. I love my tricross, and affectionately call it the Tricrust – because its so crusty all the time 😂.

For mine I:
Replaced the fork with a Soma CX tange steel canti fork.

Added mini Vs

Suspension seatpost

Modern flared drop bars

Two speed S2C kickback hub with coaster brake (brings to 3 brakes in total!)

Modern stem (alternate between a 40mm stem and a 60mm stem depending on where I’m going and how rough it gets)

Slightly more ideosyncratic mod that I dont recommend: 27 x 1 1/4 wheels. Yes, they are bigger than 700c and feel like they roll a tiny bit nicer. But only single wall options available. Maximum tyre width I can find is 32mm. The story of why I’m running these is boring and involves saving money. But – they have survived really well! Weird, impractical, but I actually like them a bit.

This is not my main gravel bike. Its my commuter primarily. But I had to go up to the Scottish Highlands for 2 months to look after my sick mum, and this bike allowed me to go gravel riding – but still have capacity to go do her shopping with 2 panniers. My gravel bike is a race bike with no rack mounts. So the Tricrust fills a niche where I want gravel and carrying capability.

Plus, the 2 speed is amazing. It needs servicing only once every 3 years! This bike is very low maintenance but still extremely fun!

by Master_Confusion4661