Nashbar has their cross frame on sale again. Is this the version that has a problem with standard road cranks? I know there were 2 versions but they don't mention which this is. I couldn't even find rear spacing on the specs. Then again my eyes aren't what they used to be.

68mm English thread. Should take your normal road crank. It even has disc brake mounts!

Rear spacing is 130mm.

I'd call Nashbar for details. I think that is the one that had the problem fitting big chain rings.

If I remember, it was the 135mm frame that had the issues. Still, frame and fork are a deal. If you get a steel fork it's something like $125. The CF fork adds about another $65. That's far cheaper than any other combo I've seen.

I have the frame with 130mm rear spacing and I had to switch to a BB with a 118mm spindle to avoid knocking my right crank against the chain stay under load.

I had one with the 135mm spacing. It was an okay riding bike but the geometry is all wrong for cross... it's built more like a 29er mtb with a super sloping top tube...

So, would a MTB group would be better suited?

I ran a Shimano MTB Triple up front without an issue. Also had a 48/34 setup and it fit as well.. The cross/double gearing took a little trial and error with bottom brackets to get the right spindle width.

Also - my remarks are in reference to the matte black Nashbar aluminum 'cross frame and not the white steel one.

I believe mine was "130mm" rear spacing on the website but it turned out to be 135mm. Either way I do have I have it set up with Shimano Alivio as a flat bar commuter. The frame is almost more similar to a hybrid than a CX bike.

I like those grips.