Inpd

Hi,

I have a Schwinn Tourist. Its a flat bar with ALU frame and bottom of the range (Altus) components. It has a very upright geometry so may make for good gravel riding (see https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=...48132919663592)

Would it be fool hearty to try to ride it on gravel given it was not designed to? I now most Gravel bikes are steel but this is a pretty heavy ALU frame with decent welds.

I'm thinking of putting in some beefy 28mm tires, getting a 32-12 cassette to make it more suitable for riding on gravel. Anything else I should consider doing to it.

Currently its lying in the garage so I thought I would put it to some good use.


Thanks!

09box

I wouldn't invest too much money into it. It might make more sense just to part with it and get something more gravel friendly.

NormanF

Get something like Schwalbe Marathon Mondials to ride it on gravel.

I have an aluminum urban bike converted to gravel road/adventure duty, so it can work.

You should go with classic North Road bars like the Origin8 ClassiqueTour. I find narrow bars work better in getting the right feel on hardpack and gravel.

Inpd

Thanks! How does an ALU frame with a steel fork handle on gravel. I'm more concerned with bone jarring feedback rather than maneuvering ability.

Why those particular tires? Do they hold up well or is more to do with the thread pattern, inflation or width?


Thanks.

NormanF

There is some chatter. I mitigated the worst of it with a triple spring leather saddle, rubber grips and of course the wide tires.

I chose the Dureme because they hold up well, the thread grips hardpack & gravel nicely without sacrificing ride quality on pavement and the tire width contributes to their stability.

tyrion

I'd get the fattest tires that will fit, maybe 38mm and ride it. It's a cheap bike but it will still go on gravel with decent tires. Schwalbe Mondials would work.