I just purchased a 24” Salsa Fargo frameset and need to decide on a drivetrain. I have four options that come to mind.

The first is the standard Fargo XT Drivetrain
Crankset Shimano XT, Black, 16"=170mm, 18/20"=175mm, 22"=180mm
Chainring Shimano 48/36/26T
Bottom Bracket Shimano, included with crankset
Chain Shimano CN-HG93, 9-Speed
Cassette Shimano XT, 9-Speed, 11-34T
Front Derailleur Shimano XT, Top Pull, 3-Speed
Rear Derailleur Shimano XT Shadow, Top Normal, 9-Speed
Shifters Shimano Bar End

The second is the Fargo SLX Drivetrain
Crankset Shimano Deore, Black, 16"=170mm, 18/20/22"=175mm
Chainring Shimano 44/32/22T
Chain Shimano CN-HG53, 9-Speed
Cassette Shimano Deore, 9-Speed, 11-34T
Front Derailleur Shimano Deore, Bottom Pull, 3-Speed
Rear Derailleur Shimano SLX, Top Normal, 9-Speed
Shifters Shimano Dura-Ace

The third is something similar to the Vaya Drivetrain
Crankset Shimano FC-4550-S, 50cm=165mm, 52,54,55,56cm=170mm, 57,58,60cm= 175mm, Silver
Chainring Shimano 34/50T, Compact Double, Silver
Bottom Bracket Shimano Tiagra Hollowtech II BB
Chain Shimano HG-53
Cassette Shimano CS-HG61, 9-Speed, 11-32T
Front Derailleur Shimano Tiagra, Silver
Rear Derailleur Shimano LX, Long Cage, Silver
Front Shifter Shimano Tiagra Double STI
Rear Shifter Shimano Tiagra 9-Speed STI

The fourth is a Alfine 11 Speed Drivetrain

I don’t really know the advantages of each drive train listed above.

I like the idea of a compact 18 speed similar to the Vaya, but it may not be compatible with the Fargo frame. I like the shifters on the Vaya better as I plan to use the bike on rails to trails and bike paths.

I am also interested in the Alfine 11 speed IGH, but I don’t know when it will be introduced and would like to complete the bike during the next 90 days.

If anyone can tell me the advantages and disadvantages of each option, it would be appreciated. The Vaya 18 speed and Alfine 11 speed are my first choice, but I can be easily swayed at this point.