You're right, it's a segment that companies are still trying to figure out. Road bike with fat tires, or mountain bike with drop bars?
I rode for years on cable-actuated disk brakes, and they were fine. I am very much happier with my GRX hydraulic but I think the cable disks are reasonable for many riders who aren't going to see loaded touring or fire road descents.
What really threw me when I was shopping for a gravel bike upgrade for commuting was the lack of rack and fender mounts in decent mid-range bikes. Do manufacturers not realize these are ideal commuting rides? So many models discounted out of hand due to lack of mount points.
This eventually let me to the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5, which is a fantastic bike and I also got great service at West Point. For my use I appreciate the relatively slack front end, I am more likely bombing through broken pavement or gravel and appreciate the stability.
"I’m starting to think that the bicycle industry might not care all that much about selling bicycles to women." It has always been thus, despite some niche efforts. We are right to be expecting more after so long.
Feb. 12, 2025, 8:10 a.m. - Squint
You're right, it's a segment that companies are still trying to figure out. Road bike with fat tires, or mountain bike with drop bars? I rode for years on cable-actuated disk brakes, and they were fine. I am very much happier with my GRX hydraulic but I think the cable disks are reasonable for many riders who aren't going to see loaded touring or fire road descents. What really threw me when I was shopping for a gravel bike upgrade for commuting was the lack of rack and fender mounts in decent mid-range bikes. Do manufacturers not realize these are ideal commuting rides? So many models discounted out of hand due to lack of mount points. This eventually let me to the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5, which is a fantastic bike and I also got great service at West Point. For my use I appreciate the relatively slack front end, I am more likely bombing through broken pavement or gravel and appreciate the stability. "I’m starting to think that the bicycle industry might not care all that much about selling bicycles to women." It has always been thus, despite some niche efforts. We are right to be expecting more after so long.