Originally Posted by
GreenMtnCycles
Hello,
I currently have a carbon cx bike and an aluminum hardtail that I also set up rigid from time to time. Recently, the cx broke and it has been an issue getting parts. I am toting the idea of selling it. I am thinking at replacing with a steel build. But with the hardtail, that I sometimes run rigid, I am having a problem justifying it. I see a lot of overlap. I had the cx bike due to racing CX in the past and no longer. I do not plan on racing gravel and only participate in events with the intention for riding. For what it is worth I have a carbon road bike as that is my first love. My question: talk me in to buying a steel gravel frameset or out of buying one.
Thanks!
I don't think a hardtail front suspension MTB overlaps with a gravel bike very much at all.
With the MTB, you've got this VERY un-aerodynamic riding position and tires with big fat knobbies.
With the road bike, you've got something light and aero, but cannot really handle any offroad; even on crushed gravel, it's going to want to sink in.
By adding a steel gravel bike, you get:
- A different frame material with a different feel
- Something more rugged than the road bike that can handle any kind of unpaved road, unless it's an absolute mudhole.
- Most of the aerodynamic riding posture of the road bike with different hand positioning options
- Something that can carry some luggage on the frame
- Something that you won't feel like you have to wear cycling kit to ride
- A perfect commuter
- Tires that soak up shocks
- A lower bottom bracket than your old CX for a more comfortable ride
I was looking hard at
the Surly Straggler to get the steel angle and the beautiful lugged fork, but decided to throw in two more complimentary features on my road bike: belt drive and IGH. (Priority Apollo 11) In retrospect, I'm not sure I made the right choice, as the lower pedaling efficiency is more of a penalty than I'd bargained for. (I'm only a few rides in, though)
