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branwen
@Nahguavkire
Ok so the planning stage for this is proceeding nicely and there have been some discussions with a certain framebuilder of forum repute but I have a few more things to hash out that I'd like to figure out before I pull the trigger on it... I'd like to have everything decided before I start so there are no nasty surprises at the other end of the build.
Geometry:
Obviously this will be largely down to the discussions with the builder but I'm thinking that I'd like the geometry to be more road oriented than getting too gravel specific? Kind of more like a road frame with massive tyres if that would make sense or is that a stupid idea? I want to be able to tackle a good day of road riding unencumbered and for the times there will be a bit of offroad I'm happy to slow down the pace...
Wheels:
Given the expected usage of 75% varying standard roads and 25% gravel/ fire roads/ dirt track do I go for a 700c or 650b wheelset?
The fork will most likely be a Columbus Futura Gravel fork which has clearance for 700c x 40mm which should mean it can also take a 650b x 2.25" tyre if I'm not mistaken? Obviously in an ideal world a set of each would be lovely but to start with it will be one or the other so which should I go for?
If I go for 700c do I need to use 29er mtb rims to accommodate a 40mm tyre? Any recommendations for rims and disc hubs?
Groupset:
I'm decided on hydro brakes but uncertain on what groupset to go for. I'm tempted to try and go for the new Ultegra RX in a 1x build if it isn't going to be silly money. In terms of simplicity of disassembly/ assembly and packing would I be absolutely crazy not to go for Di2? Sram 1x seems like it's going to be a bit over budget from any group sets I can find online...
Finishing kit:
I'm leaning towards silver Thomson seatpost and stem with a set of Ritchey Classic handlebars... Any reason not to from a usage point of view aside from aesthetics?
Also please don't hesitate to highlight and glaringly stupid omissions I've made or obvious pitfalls I'm about to encounter!