New Gravel Bike?? · Roadman Cycling Collective +

New Gravel Bike??

Probably can't start planning too early, right? So my current gravel bike has treated me well, but the rear derailleur clutch is busted. If I engage it it makes some very loud noises and does not shift smoothly at all. I had the cables replaced and took it to the LBS I bought it from to service the clutch. They said it looks fine to them and to just not use the clutch... I don't love that advice. Love the store and the people though, they run the local group rides that best suit my riding.

So, I am considering replacing the rear mech, changing from a 2x to a 1x? Maybe going electronic. Then when I was talking with my father, he suggested a new bike... who doesn't love someone else encouraging them to get a new bike, haha.

My current bike is a Trek Checkpoint Gen 2 SL5.5. I say 5.5 because when I bought this bike I was using it as gravel with road set, and bought the Bontrager rims that come on the SL6.

I would love to hear input as to should I just upgrade the drivetrain or if this bike is even a good choice for Unbound 200? I set a most likely unreasonably high goal of making top 200. So bike choice likely makes a meaningful impact in my overall time. I have this compulsion that I should buy from the LBS because of how often I ride with them, but maybe I should just get over that? Their brands are: Trek, Giant, Cervelo, Cannondale.

6 comments