Two options for the same price ($1k).
Option 1. 2018 specialized AWOL with some upgrades. Wheels, tires, dropper post, suspension stem and all the racks + bags.
Option 2. Brand new surly straggler frame. Owner built the frame up himself with parts he had.
I am a mountain biker that wants a fun gravel bike for exercise + coffee runs + brewery tours + something to commute with. Would love to bikepack at some point in my life but that wouldn’t be my focus with this bike. I don’t need to go fast but want something faster than my current 90s steel mtb that I’ve been getting around town with.
Thoughts? $1k too much for both?
I can’t decide
by coffee12345671
6 Comments
surlys look to be very reliable so i’d go with that.
That AWOL is sick. The Redshift(?) stem and seatpost are nice additions right off the bat. I’ve been wanting to get those myself. I think $1000 is a good price but that depends on your area. Also, how the bike fits is most important as everyone always says.
I would vote for an AWOL here
What racks? I’d go dropper and redshift if you’re looking to do any gravel/offroad. Surly looks like the geometry is less suited for gnarly stuff so may be more in line with what you’ve said you’ll be doing on the bike. Honestly both look pretty good, I’d judge em based on the test ride.
This is a tough call because if the straggler is basically brand new it’s great value. The AWOL is much older.
Honestly if you can test ride both and have a feel for one over the other, you’re gonna be in a good spot either way!
Ha, Ive been eyeing up that AWOL on marketplace. (Don’t worry, I decided against it. I need to sell a couple other bikes before I think about buying another. I’m out of room)
Do you know what size it is? AWOLs run very big. Even a medium AWOL is bigger than my large Cannondale topstone, and those run big too. I’m 5’10”, and if I was going to buy an AWOL, I’d be shopping for a small.
But to answer your question, I’d go with the AWOL. Redshift stem, dropper, and cable hydraulic brakes are pretty big bonuses.