Originally Posted by
aabb
Hi again. Apologies for yet another thread. Based on the last feedback I got I have decided to ask yet another question. It’s pretty short this time.
im looking for an endurance bike with some gravel capabilities, budget up to $4000 CAD. i anticipate I will be doing 60-70% road. So I really want to be able to go fast when I want to, and that’s why I have decided to shift my focus from gravel to endurance bikes (as they are faster and more comfortable)
i have looked at the Trek Domane SL 5. It’s marketed as an endurance bike but can fit tires up to 38. I have read about this bike, and people keep bringing up the large weight as a downside. I’m wondering how big of an issue this actually is and if there are any other downsides to the bike.
also please feel free to throw some suggestions for other bikes to look at. I just want something with a relaxed geometry that can go fast (not as fast as a racing bike obviously) but I can still take on some light trails and gravel.
stay domestic?
Cycles Marinoni - Sterrato comes in a quality steel frame too. Not sure if prices are CAD or not though.
https://www.norco.com/bikes/road/gravel/ The Search has a ton of different models.
https://www.racycles.com/product/detail/19709 Argon 18 Dark Matter for $4200 CAD. GRX group, carbon, etc.
https://www.brodiebicycles.com/all-2020-romax multiple models
Or there are tons of mixed road/pavement plus options from Cannondale(synapse and topstone), Specialized, Giant, Cervelo, and more. Most modern endurance disc bikes can clear 32mm tires(or more), if thats all you are looking for.
Something that wont be mentioned is the Fairlight Strael 2.0 as comes in a huge number of sizes due to their R and T sizing, has road angles and trail measurements, can clear a 33mm tire, and uses quality tubing. the Shimano 105 build is below budget.
https://fairlightcycles.com/product/...v=7516fd43adaa
As for the Domane being too heavy- thats absurd. It isnt lightweight, but it also isnt heavy. I always chuckle when someone buys a road bike that weighs 18# new, and puts frozen hose Gatorskin tires and a big wedge bag on it, whiich completely negates the point of the bike's design and spec. And this doesnt even begin to address rider weight and how that obviously totally changes any design intent for many road bikes. A 22# bike or a 19# bike shouldnt be a huge concern to most, even though it is.
- Find a bike with the geometry that you like(fit and handling).
- Buy what you can afford in terms of components.
- If you then want to upgrade either immediately or down the line, focus on tires and wheels as those will have the biggest impact on comfort, road feel, and effort.
Almost forgot- look into the Ribble CGR. It comes in multiple models and is continually well reviewed.
GT Grade too.