Looking for a new gravel bike and I'm torn between two choices:
Topstone 105:
$1600
SmartForm C2 Alloy
Shimano 105 2×11
Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brake
Hatchet:
CAD$1576 (Including tax)
Aluminum Optimum RO3
Shimano Claris
Tekro Mechanical disk
I saw the Hatchet in store are they were kind of more road bikeish tires compared to other gravel bikes. They were trying to sell me some vittoria tires to buy.
Thanks!
by Conscious_Travel_286
1 Comment
The Topstone with 105 predates gravel specific drivetrains. It’s important to have a clutch for rougher gravel, and options for wider range for climbing off tarmac with less efficient tires. That would be a drawback of that 105 group which is a road group.
Otherwise, the topstone is a fantastic bike. I don’t think that specific one is the best deal.