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Components - Discussion and Reviews

Discuss tires, drivetrain setup, brakes, derailleurs, wheels, tires and whatever other gravel specific components.

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Chain length
I didn't have an old chain (tossed it), but I've just taken the risk anyway. Turns out it was very close - it was binding up at first, but I did have…
started by Mark_S · last reply by Mark_S May 30, 2025
4 replies52 views
SRAM Cassette Doesn't Work With Shimano Derailleur
When you get back to it, just research whether you need a 1.85mm spacer behind the cassette. If you do it's a quick fix and you won't even need to…
started by mwandaw · last reply by Mark_S May 27, 2025
7 replies118 views
Mounting SRAM XPLR cassette- HELP!
Ok, then it sounds like you need spacer because you're bottoming out, the question is how much of one, but as a guess 1mm should be all that you…
started by Gravel Scott · last reply by Gravel Scott Mar 4, 2025
4 replies160 views
Shimano 2x12 with 46-30 front and 10-45 Rear?
When I was in my 40s I could do only about 210 W for an hour on a rowing machine but I could climb double-digit grades in a 42-19 gear standing at a…
started by John Z · last reply by John Z Aug 31, 2024
13 replies1,285 views
Shimano GRX400 RD 2x10 30-46 front with 11-42 cassette, anyone?
My dream setup might be possible: Shimano 2x12 with a 10-45. I am going to start a new thread for this.
started by fabiantrdbike_col · last reply by John Z Jun 10, 2024
3 replies273 views
Cassette life
Thanks both. I do use wax on the chains. This is a habit for many years now, thanks to this forum. Xenophon: It's two chains for 6000km rather than…
started by Mark_S · last reply by Mark_S Apr 29, 2024
6 replies234 views
Cane Creek Invert Gravel Suspension Fork
It looks a bit better than a full MTB suspension fork, but it’s very niche. A gravel bike with the correct tyres and pressures doesn’t need a…
started by frontrangegravel · last reply by 3TX Apr 20, 2024
3 replies282 views
Frame protection level of coverage in gravel
If no one's told you yet, it works this way. Our families and fellow humans must be treated with care and respect. MTBs, gravel bike and skis are…
started by Planesio · last reply by Planesio Apr 16, 2024
14 replies704 views
GRX Di2 12 speed Speculation
Could be... if it’s what everyone is expecting though, it’s not going to be the most exciting thing to review. Essentially “It works just like the…
started by 3TX · last reply by 3TX Apr 8, 2024
6 replies360 views
Road vs MTB pedals for gravel
I’ve never used them, but a friend loves the Crank Bros.egg beaters. …I doubt I’ll try them though, because I like the supportive platform of the…
started by Planesio · last reply by 3TX Apr 6, 2024
9 replies616 views
SRAM Force D2 Road 46-33 2x Chainrings with AXS GX Derailleur / 10-52 Cassette?
It is the same for Shimano. Shimano has 2x 12 speed mountain derailleurs, but the max cog is 45. If you really want to do this check out this thread…
started by 3TX · last reply by 3TX Apr 1, 2024
6 replies210 views
Quick Connect Fittings for SRAM hydraulic brake line
Thanks for those links. The link from ticycles appears to only be for extending brake lines and isn't a quick connect fitting like the Formula
started by ntxgrvl · last reply by ntxgrvl Mar 27, 2024
3 replies412 views
Mounting water bottle cages on fork?
I use the larger size Specialized bottle which I think are around 28 ounces.. I ride with a hydro pack so I typically use the fork bottles to refill…
started by Chris18 · last reply by Chris18 Feb 14, 2024
5 replies427 views
My SRAM Rival 1 drivetrain runs loud and rough as hell. Is this normal?
Coming years late to this chat! …my SRAM Force / Eagle mullet drivetrain gets loud and crunchy as soon as I hit the dirt. It’s acceptably quiet on…
started by HollyBoni · last reply by 3TX Feb 5, 2024
36 replies5,157 views
Full squish XC bike to gravel rig discussion
Gotten a couple rides in. Very happy with it at this point. It's no race machine but it really is a magic carpet ride.
started by Pipeliner · last reply by Pipeliner Jan 1, 2024
11 replies608 views
50mm stem with shock absorption
I think 80mm is about as low as they can go with the current design of shock stems
started by ntxgrvl · last reply by baric Dec 24, 2023
6 replies298 views
flat bar for gravel
Thanks for the Super Gravel. That looks over my budget but I believe it's time to put a flat bar on the bike I have. My wrists feel better with a…
started by stu · last reply by stu Oct 26, 2023
9 replies1,030 views
Portable fenders
I use the SKS Speedrockers, which are designed for gravel bikes. Pretty easy to mount, adjust, and remove. Good for tires up to 42mm. h
started by Zurichman · last reply by Dino Sore Oct 26, 2023
7 replies202 views
SRAM Apex AXS is out
I'm new here. I have the Apex AXS on my new Carbonda CFR-696 build. The bike only has about 25 miles on it, so it's early days.
started by ljsmith · last reply by jstrawks Oct 24, 2023
4 replies429 views
Wide range 2x GRX
Shimano is conservative in their cassette ratings. I have been running the 11-40 on the rear of the GRX 810(mechanical) for about 3-4 years. The only…
started by wanderer · last reply by Zurichman Oct 23, 2023
9 replies683 views