I live in Southern California and have been saving up to get a gravel bike. I am upgrading from a hybrid Cannondale. I personally prefer a bike that can go just about anywhere. Although, I will likely be on the road most days, I will still try to go on trails every other weekend.
I have never owned a drop bar bike, but I am open to it as it is best for long-distance riding.
The two bikes that have caught my attention the most are the [Checkpoint ALR5](https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/road-bikes/gravel-bikes/checkpoint/checkpoint-alr/checkpoint-alr-5/p/35172/?aid%5B39899%5D=122747&aid%5B39902%5D=122767&aid%5B42809%5D=131077§ion=QUESTIONNAIRE&step=2) and the [Canyon Grizl 7](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/gravel-bikes/adventure/grizl/al/grizl-7/3715.html?dwvar_3715_pv_rahmenfarbe=R075_P06). I know that the Grizl offers more value, but I saw that the Checkpoint had a $500 discount. So I am wondering if this would make the Checkpoint the better option. There is also the benefit that I can try it out as well to see if I like it, which is something I can’t do with a Grizl as easily.
The other two bikes that I really like are the [topstone 4](https://www.rei.com/product/208193/cannondale-topstone-4-bike) and the [Journeyer Apex.](http://rei.com/product/184747/salsa-journeyer-apex-1-700c-bike) Really, the reason I like these two are because they have a lower price. I would much rather spend closer to $1500, and have an extra $500 for gear.
I am really just looking for the best bike that would not need much upgrades for a while, while having the best value as well. I think if Canyon had the [Grizl 7 1by](https://www.canyon.com/en-us/gravel-bikes/adventure/grizl/al/grizl-7-1by/3236.html?dwvar_3236_pv_rahmenfarbe=GN%2FBK) available in medium, I would happily pull the trigger
I appreciate any advice.
by Tigerslovecows
2 Comments
Look into the Bombtrack Hook. Lower budget do all bike.
I’ve been looking at Giant Revolts recently, they look great.