Hasn’t arrived, but I finally pulled the trigger on a gravel bike (Salsa Journeyer Claris 650b). Sure, there will be some upgrades happening in the future (1x, dropper, hyd brakes, etc). But, this fits the criteria for specs I want combined with what I can currently afford.
by DougBikesCLE
6 Comments
Looks like it’ll arrive while I’m still on isolation protocol (for MRSA 😖). At least I’ll be able to tweak it properly by the time I’m cleared to ride again.
Solid bike! I have always liked the Journeyers.
Salsas are special to me as a Fargo was my first venture into proper gravel bikes. Enjoy!
FYI, one of my main criterion was a 650b tire. Since I’m primarily a mountain biker, the wider tires will make the adjustment easier.
Well done. Enjoy it.
Don’t worry about upgrades till things are worn out or you’ve ridden so hard that things broke.
Also, yes, I’m “petty” & won’t buy/ride a bike if I don’t like the colorway. Same goes for guitars & synthesizers: If I don’t like how it looks, I’m not likely to pick it up, even if it’s a “better build.”
Great bike, I have the Journeyer Sora 700c. My only complaint was the WTB wheels that came on the bike. On my second ride with it the rear rim got bent and I had to warranty it (which they did complete in a timely manner). Ended up replacing them with I9 GRCX wheels and it’s been smooth riding ever since.