I purchased this bike a while back on a whim as my first gravel bike for a complete gravel/bikepacking noob. I’ve done a one-nighter (with the gear pictured– excuse the crappy set up) and a handful of small gravel rides since. From my research since, it seems like this bike is more suited to cyclocross and not really the best for long rides.
This year, my goal is to do more bikepacking and multi-day trips, with a long ride (a couple of weeks) in the summer! But I’m unsure whether to keep this bike.
Obviously, it could use some upgrades– I’ve already purchased some better tires (Continental Terras) and have considered getting a larger cassette, based on friends’ recommendations. Still, I would like some second opinions. How much weight would this bike be able to handle (with proper racks)? Would it be reliable enough?
I’ve looked into some steel frame options (Surlys, 4130 All-Road) but worried about riding something too heavy. Also researched Canyon Grizl and Cannondale Topstones for lighter/more versatile aluminum options. Budget is around ~$1,500 max.
I know that’s a lot of variables to consider, but all of your input helps! I’ve been going in circles deciding whether to work with what I have or start fresh. In any case, thanks in advance for helping out this noob.
kbrosnan on
The main downside to what I see on this bike is that there are not any mounting points. If you don’t swap bikes items like frame bags and seat packs might be better for handling. Getting the weight lower would help.
It is worth keeping an eye out for better options but I would ride what you have for now. If you have 1.5k I would be looking around 1k for the bike and another 500 for accessories and tires, etc.
2 Comments
CONTEXT:
Hi friends,
I purchased this bike a while back on a whim as my first gravel bike for a complete gravel/bikepacking noob. I’ve done a one-nighter (with the gear pictured– excuse the crappy set up) and a handful of small gravel rides since. From my research since, it seems like this bike is more suited to cyclocross and not really the best for long rides.
This year, my goal is to do more bikepacking and multi-day trips, with a long ride (a couple of weeks) in the summer! But I’m unsure whether to keep this bike.
Obviously, it could use some upgrades– I’ve already purchased some better tires (Continental Terras) and have considered getting a larger cassette, based on friends’ recommendations. Still, I would like some second opinions. How much weight would this bike be able to handle (with proper racks)? Would it be reliable enough?
I’ve looked into some steel frame options (Surlys, 4130 All-Road) but worried about riding something too heavy. Also researched Canyon Grizl and Cannondale Topstones for lighter/more versatile aluminum options. Budget is around ~$1,500 max.
I know that’s a lot of variables to consider, but all of your input helps! I’ve been going in circles deciding whether to work with what I have or start fresh. In any case, thanks in advance for helping out this noob.
The main downside to what I see on this bike is that there are not any mounting points. If you don’t swap bikes items like frame bags and seat packs might be better for handling. Getting the weight lower would help.
It is worth keeping an eye out for better options but I would ride what you have for now. If you have 1.5k I would be looking around 1k for the bike and another 500 for accessories and tires, etc.