Have a CX bike w/drop bars and 2x9 gearing. Center pull cantilever brakes. The frame and fork are aluminum and steel, respectively w/28mm flat resistsnt tires. Use front bags as panniers in combo w/a trunkbag. Been doing the job for 4 years+ w/virtually no issues. Just did my first rebuild. Replaced rear der, chain, cassette, bb, brake pads, cables, saddle. Rebuilt rear wheel w/a hub upgrade as well as getting an Ultegra 6700 rear der. Sora front der is still functional and fine as well as shifters. Not alot of snob appeal, but it's solid and reliable. Also, got Forte extra thick puncture resistant tubes.