Salsa Journeyman 650b vs. Surly Cross Check

Hi all -

New here. Was hoping to get some advice from you all regarding my foray into gravel riding/racing. I'm interested in participating in some local gravel events, really more for completion than anything. I currently have a Surly Cross check which has been retired from commuting duties. I was considering making that my gravel rig... But the Salsa Journeyman caught my eye, because it's a little more "modern" and I dig 650b. 

So, the question here is... Cross Check with some fat 700c x 40's make for decent gravel rig, or do I scratch the upgrade (is it even an upgrade?) itch? Thanks! 

dmadina16 wrote:Hi all -

New here. Was hoping to get some advice from you all regarding my foray into gravel riding/racing. I'm interested in participating in some local gravel events, really more for completion than anything. I currently have a Surly Cross check which has been retired from commuting duties. I was considering making that my gravel rig... But the Salsa Journeyman caught my eye, because it's a little more "modern" and I dig 650b. 

So, the question here is... Cross Check with some fat 700c x 40's make for decent gravel rig, or do I scratch the upgrade (is it even an upgrade?) itch? Thanks! 

its really a decision only you can make.
The Surly would work great as a gravel bike.  Personally after using discs I will never go back to rim brakes, so I’d go with the Journeyman.  I also figure that Surly frame is quite heavy.  If you’re riding very rough gravel or single track than the 650b is a better choice.  You just need to decide what you need out of a gravel bike