Hey all,
Pic for attention.
I’ve been falling in love with gravel and road riding on a Marin Nicasio I picked up the year before last, and I feel I’m hitting the ceiling of the capabilities of an entry level steel bike. I have no one to talk bikes with as I got into this sport by myself and my local bike shops are generally unhelpful and antisocial.
I’m looking for an upgrade, primarily for gravel riding, I live in Alberta, Canada. I’m starting to think about training for and entering my first amateur races in the coming season for fun; but I’d also like a bike that can do some light touring/bikepacking. Open to keeping the Nicasio as a touring bike if needed.
I’ve been drawn to the Canyon Grizl, and Devinci Hatchet. I want something faster and lighter, and I think I’d like to spend around 2-3k CAD? primarily I’d like to get a good value upgrade from what I have, hence the wide budget.
Is carbon worth the extra spend at this price range? Or will I have better luck looking at aluminum? And are 1by drivetrains better/worse with future racing as a consideration? Curious to hear any bike recommendations or things to know.
by nhbd