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    Gravel Cycling

    Is this a good first proper bike?


    Price is in CAD^^

    Following my previous post, I’ve been riding a single speed for a year and been loving cycling so I want to get a proper bike. I was advised against going all in on a higher end bike until I know what I like. Is this a good first proper gravel bike? I would love a canyon grizl but the duties to import into Canada would be brutal. I’ve read good things about the cannondale topstone 4 and it looks sweet as well.

    by ThrowRAegodeath

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    10 Comments

    1. AutoModerator on

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    2. flyonlewall on

      Absolutely.

      Tbh, you’re on the right track, and I wouldn’t get too analytical for your first bike, though I’m sure you will get other opinions. Just make sure the bike *fits you*.

      Get something quality with a decent groupset like you’ve selected, and over the years, you’ll discover what’s important to you for your next bike(s).

      Enjoy!

    4. FrenchAffair on

      I just got a Canon grail shipped to me in Canada.. There aren’t any duties as they are made in Germany. 

      There is a comment in this forum on how to self clear with UPS to make sure they use the right code that makes the bike duty free, as in the past UPS wasn’t doing this. But for me it wasn’t even necessary. UPS sent me the breakdown and they only charged me GST + QST. 18$ brokerage fee which I’m fine with paying as it’s worth the cost of not going to the CBSA office and doing the paperwork myself. 

    5. Moorbert on

      there is a lot of things, where a lot of people complain about. for example bottom bracket and wheels.

      and maybe you will have some struggle with this in future, but go for a ride and enjoy. if something really is an issue, you can go for warranty or change it for something better.

      that is what i did. go for the topstone because it is the best frame. and then slowly upgrading and by doing so also learn more and more about your bike. i really love it and i really enjoy riding every week.

    6. avalon01 on

      I picked up the Topstone 2 at REI when it was on sale.

      It’s been a great bike – and as much as some people complain about the bottom bracket and FSA cranks, I haven’t experienced and issues. Then again, I’m out riding rail trails and not beating the shit out of the bike.

    8. RocketScientistToBe on

      Mechanical disk brakes should not be on a bike over $1300. A bike at that pricepoint should have grx400 or tiagra/105 (or sram equivalent) with hydro disks.

    9. ExoticSterby42 on

      Is it a good first “proper” bike? Yes. For that price? Fuck no!

      Look up Decathlon Triban RC520 GRVL

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