Posted by: RAHrider
Personally, I don't think gravel bikes belong in the lycra forum as they are at the heart of it, a 90's MTB (complete with a mix of drop and flat bars).
I just picked this frame/fork/seatpost/handlebar/stem for $500USD. I also threw in two $100 carbon rims but can only build up one of them as the front hub is on back order. Aside from new carbon rims and front hub, all the other parts are moved over from old bikes. I have only taken it out for a 20min test spin so far but it is really comfortable. I also got blue titanium bolts for all the mounting holes (this bike has 24 of them!) for $10 from aliexpress. It was my first time with fully integrated cable routing - that was fun. The result is pretty slick looking IMO.

LOL - it's totally 1990s MTB (with some better shifting and brake tech). That's why I've been loving it for the last few years.
What is that frame and where did you source all that for 500$? Direct to consumer chinese brand or is it used? that's not a knock by the way - that seems like really good value and I'm curious as I'm thinking of getting a new gravel ride.
I'm currently on a CX bike and would like just a bit more room for rear tire width (mine is pretty tight at 38c, space for 45 would be sweet).