I have the alloy 105. Picked up from Performance for $1000.
So the frame is the common theme here and for me it's a winner. The GT Alloy bike is just a FUN bike. This bike calls out to me to go riding more then any bike I've owned.
This is a bike where I believe any upgrades such as wheels are worth it as the frame is such a solid foundation to start with.
I can't comment on the wheels as the 105 comes with Alex, and they're decent for the money. A little heavy, but good where it counts, spins well with good bearings. Sounds like the Jalco are a little better then the Alex.
I've upgraded to Vittoria Cross XG Pro 32mm tubeless. A fun set up. Some concern you may address is how wide do you want to go with tires before you go with the GT. There are other gravel bikes available now that allow wider rubber. Not a deal breaker for me.
I've replaced the tires, FSA to and Ultegra Crank (I'm OCD, had to be full Shimano) a little longer stem and a cheap carbon seatpost. Because, as stated above, this bike is solid and upgrades were a no brainer.
Thanks for the info. I'm debating between the 105 and the Sram X (and also the carbon Sram--$2000 at PB). I'll be doing a mix of road and gravel, though leaning more toward road use. On the alloy X model, about the only thing I'd upgrade (to start) would be the seatpost. Down the line, I'd also get a better set of wheels and tires. On the 105 I'd do upgrades similar to yours. May wait for PB's 30% deal unless something better comes along.
i did remove a 100mm stem. But I installed it on a Santa Cruz Tallboy that I ended up selling. Sorry. I replaced it with a FSA OS-99 Carbon I got on closeout through Nashbar for stupid cheap.
Just bought the GT Grade Alloy 105 for $1000 from PB. Love it thus far but I'm already considering component upgrades, mainly going to tubeless and replacing the FSA crank...started squeaking after the first 10 miles. I haven't taken it on trails yet, but the gravel paths have been solid. The Alloy 105 comes standard with slicks, so if you're looking to immediately start riding on gravel or trails, I'd recommend swapping the tires...makes it more affordable that PB offers 10% back in "points", so basically you'd have $100 in your pocket to put toward upgrades. I used the cash to buy a set of Crank Bros Doubleshot pedals, which I love.
How did you guys find the 105 GT grade alloy for $1000 from PB? I've been looking at it (and the models above it) and haven't seen any deals like yours.
