I don't have a huge budget so I like the lower price of the rocky mountain. Also seems to have great reviews online from years ago. Con: rim brakes?
I will be biking on Forest service roads/easy single tracks and paved road. Will also be doing occasional bike packing.
Which would you choose?
by ShiveringBlobfish
1 Comment
What currency? I say that because if USD the specialized is massively overpriced, you can get brand new bike with the same spec for less. Maybe Canadian dollars since that is where Rocky mountain bikes is most common?
The specialized is a Cyclocross model at least 10 years old predating the gravel explosion so the design is versatile for the time but still an aggressive twitchy race bike geometry compared to modern gravel bikes. It also will struggle to fit a 40mm gravel tire.
The Rocky mountain is a dedicated touring bike design so it is prioritizing stability and durability. Despite the retro steel frame design it is still within a few years of the age of the specialized. While still keeping some efficiency it’s not going to be a lively ride. It could be a very good fit for your use, it does seem from a quick Google that it has decent tire clearance for the time.
So for me the Rocky Mountain is good choice to consider if you test it and the fit, feel and condition is good. The specialized is not nearly worth double the price but if you are looking for something more lively than the Rocky Mountain you will be able to find it for cheaper than that specialized.