Renew bike day – Decathlon Triban RC520 goes full Hydraulic + New paint

Hi all,

It has been a year since my [last post here](https://www.reddit.com/r/gravelcycling/comments/12bp6ym/renew_bike_day_triban_rc_520_upgrade_for/) (new wheels and tires) and wanted to share you my latest work, as this is a place where I regularly find inspiration and new ideas.

My bike is a [Decathlon Triban RC520](https://www.decathlon.fr/p/velo-route-cyclotouriste-triban-rc520-frein-disque/_/R-p-301734) (not gravel originally, the first edition) purchased in 2019. From the beginning and regularly then I had issues with the brakes. They are TRP HY/RD, semi-hydraulic system with cables up to the calipers, where there is a piston to actuate the brakes with hydraulic force.I managed to set them up, but it required regular maintenance and the performance was not here.So I decided to go full hydraulic.

I found a brand new front/back Grx810 system with also the rear derailleur on a second-hand website (leboncoin in France, thank you Vincent!) for 400€.

Since this supposed to remove many parts I figured that I could also try to paint this bike for a unique look. And finally I also decided for a new handlebar as the original one was not designed for gravel.

**Brake setup :**
The TRP HY/RD are post mount while the GRX are flat mount.On the rear I had to use a flat to post mount (found on AliExpress) which required to go from 160mm to 180mm rotor. There is another version that allow to stay with 160mm but require more room at the frame.On the front, my fork has a post mount setup so I have been able to directly setup the grx caliper. (Actually I purchased an planed to use the second adaptor before figuring out that there were a post to flat mount adaptor already in place to maintain the TRP)

I had to drill through the 2 points were there is originally a housing/nude cable interface (bellow the frame) to let the hydraulic hose go through.

100% recommend grx vs TRP, powerful brakes + much more control on the brake intensity. Also the shifters are betters than the 105 from my perspective, the trip is shorter to go up and down, especially for the front derailleur.

**Painting :**
Inspired by Origine, a bike brand originate from close to where I live. I replicated the 2 tones design of the Graxx 3, their last gravel. It was not easy and it’s not perfect but fun to do. I used Spray bike primer, paint, and finish.

**Handlebar :**
Many discussions in the sub. I decided for a Ritchey Comp Butano. I only tested the bike testerday to go to work (that’s why it has mudguard in the first picture) but I had very good feeling. Finally I can reach the brake when my hands are in hooks position!

I think my RC520 has reached its final form (or maybe a new saddle?), next expense will be a new bike.

Thanks to the community!

by louisgaga