My son is moving up to 2nd year C cat in 2025 and looking to be competitive in national races. We've previously gotten by on 'do it all' bikes - he's currently riding a Giant TCX that can be used for CX in the winter, but the frame is on the heavier side. I'm looking to build something up using parts we already have (sans frameset), with some minor adaptations for youth racing (mainly due to gear restrictions).
Frame - hopefully something carbon, perhaps this, maybe something second hand? Otherwise a lighter weight AL frameset suitable for discs. Groupset - I have a full GRX 1x, hydraulic disc gruppo that can mostly be re-used with some adaptations. Chainring - Needs to be 34T (with 12T smallest sprocket) or 40T (with 14T smallest sprocket) for C gearing. I'm leaning towards 34 as there's more options for the cassette, without having to block off gears. Also means when he moves up to B category I could just replace the chainring with a 36T. Cassette - Been hearing good things about ZTTO/ZRACE options from ali express. Wheels - I have some Mavic Aksium wheels that will do for a start. Probably first upgrade after the initial build will be Chinese carbon wheels. Youth racers are restricted to 35mm depth.
Misc - Ideally I would put on some 36cm wide bars
I'm looking to build it up myself mostly, would be my first time so also need to invest in some tools!
My son is moving up to 2nd year C cat in 2025 and looking to be competitive in national races. We've previously gotten by on 'do it all' bikes - he's currently riding a Giant TCX that can be used for CX in the winter, but the frame is on the heavier side. I'm looking to build something up using parts we already have (sans frameset), with some minor adaptations for youth racing (mainly due to gear restrictions).
Frame - hopefully something carbon, perhaps this, maybe something second hand? Otherwise a lighter weight AL frameset suitable for discs.
Groupset - I have a full GRX 1x, hydraulic disc gruppo that can mostly be re-used with some adaptations.
Chainring - Needs to be 34T (with 12T smallest sprocket) or 40T (with 14T smallest sprocket) for C gearing. I'm leaning towards 34 as there's more options for the cassette, without having to block off gears. Also means when he moves up to B category I could just replace the chainring with a 36T.
Cassette - Been hearing good things about ZTTO/ZRACE options from ali express.
Wheels - I have some Mavic Aksium wheels that will do for a start. Probably first upgrade after the initial build will be Chinese carbon wheels. Youth racers are restricted to 35mm depth.
Misc - Ideally I would put on some 36cm wide bars
I'm looking to build it up myself mostly, would be my first time so also need to invest in some tools!