PDA

View Full Version : Making of a gravel bike

TomNY
08-26-2013, 01:55 PM
I just rode the D2R2 event with a road bike [ Cervelo R3 w 25mm rear tire] without any problems, but can identify with the big tire bikes I saw. I bought 28mm Armadillos but they would not fit. Ouch that was an expensive experiment.

I recently found and bought a Trek 1220 w triple Tiagra 9 speed, that has frame spacing for wider tires. I'm thinking this could be a potential gravel bike. Slap on the big tires, shorter stem, etc. Any suggestions?

My back up road bike is a Trek 5200 OCLV frame. That could accept wider tires also but the bike is in super clean condition w new 105 group on it.
jds108
08-26-2013, 01:59 PM
Did you check if the 700x28s will fit in the OCLV frame with enough clearance?

It would be good for me to know... Thanks!
ergott
08-26-2013, 02:01 PM
I'd start with the 1220. Sounds like it won't need much if anything.
TomNY
08-26-2013, 04:04 PM
OCLV has room for the 28mm I was using it on tar and chip roads here in Orange County NY w Conti Super Sport touring 28mm. But cause its so sweet and carbon I had misgivings on using - abusing it. Also the compact cranks are matched right now w 12-28. My Cervelo has new Sram XO 11-32 which I have to say at 175 lbs and nearing 57 is welcome for the steepest of climbs.

1220 w triple probably has most of the ratios I benefit from in my compact set up w 11-32. I bought the 1220 for a nephew who has decided not to cycle or quit smoking. So its sort of a free [ was $250 off CL] to me, and not so dear to trash.
josephr
08-26-2013, 06:59 PM
I bought the 1220 for a nephew who has decided not to cycle or quit smoking. So its sort of a free [ was $250 off CL] to me, and not so dear to trash.


its amazing how smoking hinders the mind's ability to control the body. Not only have I invited them out for riding, I've offered mtn bikes and road bikes to friends/relatives, if they'll quit, etc....no takers yet, but I'm still offering!
Joe
roydyates
08-26-2013, 08:03 PM
Did you check if the 700x28s will fit in the OCLV frame with enough clearance?

It would be good for me to know... Thanks!

A trek 5200 OCLV will fit (but just barely) a Conti 28mm that runs small. If you try a Michelin, say a a Pro Race 3, 25mm is as big as you can fit, and that is also a pretty tight fit.