I'm looking for a bike that encourages me to get out for an hour or two. My mtb is a bit heavy to enjoy fireroads, canal tracks etc so I figured something else would make a worthy addition.
Size wise probably a medium or 54, I had a large Pinnacle before and it was fine if a bit stretched out with the drops (i'm just under 5'10)
I've been watching Boardman CX, Giant TCX, Specialized Diverge and Pinnacle Arkose but so far most are collect only, the wrong size or snapped up pretty quick. Any other models I should look at? Discs would be great and I would like decent comfort over raciness.
I'd usually build something up but I'd rather get out and ride this time- budget is limited as not earning much at the moment so I thought complete could be better value.
Any merit in buying something like this- https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/calibre-stitch-urban-bike-p433473? They also have a couple of Konas at a similar price..
That Calibre Dark Peak looks good for the money.
https://off.road.cc/content/news/offroadccs-best-bikes-of-2018-gravel-bike-of-the-year-3125
+1 for dark peak, and I think there is a 10% voucher knocking around at the moment.
GT Grades and Specialized Diverges seem to go for not much money 2nd hand on ebay especially Tiagra equipped which would work well. I
Maybe look at CX bikes as well? The geometry is pretty much the same but without the on-trend label (but maybe also a few guard mounts/bottle bosses if that bothers you).
I've was looking for something similar, just bought a 2016 Arkose 4 at the weekend for £450, but I saw a few CAADXs quite cheap. Genesis CdF too if steel is an option.
Search Gumtree for "cx" / "cyclocross" / "gravel" / "adventure" (my Arkose didn't come up in my first searches as it was listed as "Adventure Road") and find something local. There's sure to be plenty of choice over a few weeks.
I picked up a 2016/17 Boardman CX Team (1x11 Rival, hydro brakes, carbon fork), in very good condition, for £400 off ebay.
There's some attractive frameset deals on https://www.planetx.co.uk/c/q/deals/clearance/clearance-frames?sort=price-asc when you factor in the "SECRET15" promo for 15% off any frameset that allows 10% off using "EXTRA10" code.
~£255 for Full Monty SL and London Road SL, both have clearance for ~42mm tyres IIRC.
If the brake mounts are flat mount, I'd be quite tempted myself to buy one and try building up a bike for the first time, the most expensive bits I think I'd need would be hydraulic brake set, BB, crankset and bars.
Keep an eye out for a genesis cda - i picked one up of ebay and it's becoming my goto ride..
It's been great for both on-road stuff and replacing my mtb on local off-road routes, and is a really capable package
Any specific budget? <ad alert> I have a 2016 Arkose 4 (hydraulic discs) large. Can PM me an offer but it would be collection only from London (East/Central) or Warwickshire. Don't think I'd bite at the £450 thenorthwind paid though.
Oh, about £300-400! I'd be happier on a medium Arkose I think but need to look into that more, but they seem to hold their value well. Aware some are now £1k upwards new..
Glasgow, so wrong end of the country from you and the Calibre Dark Peak mentioned above.
Boardman CX in this household.
I share it with middle_oab.
Used so far for commute (rough back road), 220km Argyll Tour, forest roads and a bunch of DofE rides with trailer.
It does what is asked if it, no drama, no fuss.
Wheels feel a bit heavy to wind up at times. Gearing is too high off road. Stem is silly long (swapped).
They're as little as £200 on Facebook groups, if buy another.
Check out Bergamont gravel bikes - good value for what you get.
Are you on a comp or team Matt? There is a nice 2014 on ebay that will post but the guy claims it was c2w last year and wants £400+ postage! Missed a CX team with spare wheels a few days ago, gazumped on it sadly!