Turned this bike into a speed machine for smoother gravel.
First I replaced the original 44cm bar with 38cm and a Redshift suspension stem. I can't praise this thing enough for reducing bumps on the front end of the bike.
Next I got a similar treatment for the rear end with the S15 VCLS seatpost. While more subtle I could also definitely feel improvement in comfort in the saddle.
Finally a week ago I decided to completely replace the Apex 1x drivetrain with Rival Wide 2x and the enormous Zipp 303 XPLR S wheelset. Finally the bike has a complete gear range and just flies!
I'm running 44mm Thundero tires around 2 bar on these wheels and with comfort upgrades mentioned above I can honestly say riding faster gravel on this bike feels pretty much the same as a paved road and basically just as fast!
by captainlachy