With all the drop bar bikes with clearance for 650b 2.3” tires, meant to “tackle tough terrain”, at what point is a good cross-country hardtail going to be superior?
Even for some “gravel” races around here an XC bike with appropriate gearing will almost certainly be faster and maybe more fun.
*Disclaimer: I own and ride a drop bar bike on 650b 50mm tires and enjoy it immensely. It regularly sees single track, but I know an XC hardtail would do most of what this bike does as well or better.
A gravel bike is best in gravel. Problem being there's very little in England. Still a lot faster in the road sections, just not very good at rowdy stuff.
With all the drop bar bikes with clearance for 650b 2.3” tires, meant to “tackle tough terrain”, at what point is a good cross-country hardtail going to be superior?
Even for some “gravel” races around here an XC bike with appropriate gearing will almost certainly be faster and maybe more fun.
*Disclaimer: I own and ride a drop bar bike on 650b 50mm tires and enjoy it immensely. It regularly sees single track, but I know an XC hardtail would do most of what this bike does as well or better.