Based in Berlin, it's pretty flat but near forests. My use case is day rides (ca. 70km, with ~20km on gravel through forests), and 2-3 times a year doing week long holidays (with panniers/forks/handlebag bags, light camping set-up but no cookware), want the option for pannier rack and mountable fork bags). I don't really do rides in steep/high-altitude areas but would like the option to get into it while on holidays. I care about price:quality a lot. Not sure about my 1x or 2x groupset preferences, since I never owned a bike With 1x and you can only tell so much during a test-drive.
I owned the Marin Gestalt 2 before, geometry fit me really well (it was stolen, so I'm looking for a new bike now). Test rode the Comp E5 and honestly a great fit too (higher stack – sitting more upright and already on the Marin I didn't think my seating position was "aggressive" or sporty). Handlebars/steering on the Specialized was even more responsive, so had more fun there https://bikeinsights.com/compare?geometries=675eb7993aada5001b875d0a,6631d0903127c700210893e3
Which bike do you think?
Specialized Diverge Comp E5 Gravel Bike (€1999) – see specs here https://radladen.berlin/specialized-diverge-comp-e5/ a little bit outside my budget with the things I need to get on top, but not beyond.
Marin Gestalt 2 (€1385 + shipping and assembly) – see specs here https://fahrrad-marcks.de/product/marin-gestalt-2-1152438/ – since it's significantly cheaper, I would definitely consider upgrades (e.g., tires) while I'm at it.
I'd have to get racks and mudguards for both anyway. Both are tubeless compatible, sadly doesn't already come tubeless from the shop so I'll have to pay extra for it (~€97).
by fragile-badass
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Specialized