Again, all I'm trying to do is highlight that people don't need to spend a fortune to build up a great steel gravel/cx bike.
You are correct. "Great" is kind of the catch 22 here. as is "need". I guess I define "need" different also.
I do agree with you a less expensive frame can be great. Depends on how we define great.
Personally I dig cannondale himod carbon, I think the affordable cannondale carbon , while great, are piles of dog doo in comparison. Heaps other people will tell you they never know the difference. I van flick it and hear the difference.
Verbiage? i suppose I should be careful with that... as Yea I find my self dogging on lots of bikes simply because I've had nicer. But thats all relative too. Something to consider before I post.
Surly has some great stigmas. It's a frame that is going to last etc...
As for the midnight special. Give me one with true thru axle, 853 tubing. I know which one I'm buying.
I've different "needs".
Same as surly corner bar. "Great idea, great concept, but I'll go buy the carbon knock off. *shrugs*