I ride mostly for fitness and some adventure. Longest rides will be up to 50 for now. I like the feel of something quick and nimble but rugged. I’ve owned a surly straggler, too long and the drop outs were a pain and a Soma frame parts bike.
These are the best bang for buck bikes I’ve narrowed down:
Canyon Grizl – https://www.canyon.com/en-us/gravel-bikes/adventure/grizl/trail/grizl-7-trail/2710.html?dwvar_2710_pv_rahmenfarbe=GN
Full carbon – https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/disc-brake-roadbikes/mulekick-cf-ss11-discbrake-roadbike-xx.htm
Steel – https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/disc-brake-roadbikes/mulekick-4130-steel-discbrake-gravel-bikes.htm
All have hydronic disc brakes which is great.
by dsound
2 Comments
For me, I’d probably eliminate the carbon one first. It doesn’t seem that much better than the steel one.
The Canyon has a gravel suspension fork which sounds interesting, but I don’t know if the added weight and complexity would make it worthwhile to me. Suspension forks need to be serviced, and it would be another thing to learn how to do.
I’m ok with 2×10 in terms of gearing. I have it on my road bike and I’m happy with the range.
The issue then becomes which do you prefer, steel or aluminum. I’m a sucker for steel, but aluminum has come a long way in terms of ride quality, and the thick tires and suspension more than compensate for any extra comfort steel may give.
I would likely go with canyon over bikesdirect I know people with Canyons and they like them and the service they have received. I have never even seen a Motobecane in person.