A different Rock Lobster Team Tig 853

@CptnBigNose how's the bike going now?

On another note, i've got plans to enter some gravel events next year. I don't want to buy a gravel bike, so i'm planning on getting this ready for gravel events. I've given myself the rough deadline of mid February to get the parts sorted, otherwise i'll procrastinate and it'll take forever.

I know nothing about gravel riding/races, no idea on what kit to bring or parts to run etc., only what i've seen on the internet.

I'm thinking most of the races are between 70-120km in length, so i don't need any big bike bags or heavy duty equipment, just enough to hold tools, medicine kit, waterproofs and food/water.

On top of the plans i already have for the bike, i'm thinking of wide flared shallow drop bars and road hydraulic shifters. I don't know whether shimano road shifters can operate with mtb derailleurs, so i might go for a sram drivetrain.

Drivetrain upgrades:

1. Sram force/apex shifters 1x
   
2. some sram mtb rear derailleur, maybe NX 11 speed? I know nothing about sram mtb so any advice appreciated
   
3. 10-42t cassette
   
4. potentially shorter cranks, 175mm is a little too long
   
5. new chain
   
6. crank bros pedals (candy?)
   
   

Braking

1. Shimano XT RT86 rotors
   
2. Any new pads, the hope ones on their currently keep glazing over
   
   

Cockpit

1. any wide flared drop bars
   
2. maybe some aero extensions
   
3. new stem depending on fit
   
   

Wheels
I think i'll try tubeless for the first time.

1. Keep the Vittoria Barzo tyres, maybe get Maxxis ikons
   
2. new rim tape
   
3. sealant
   
   

Misc.

1. Bar tape
   
2. Bottle cages
   
3. Frame pump
   
4. Backup lights
   
5. Saddle bag/handlebar bag
   
   

I can't think of anything else, but if anyone with more gravel experience sees something missing let me know.