Stellar Value - Good Build
First, I ride bikes a lot, and this bike replaced an older steel-framed quick release-style ride that I’d been upgrading for years. It was a good ride - and got me to dozens of adventures: bike packing, organized rides, daily riding, and the like. However, it was time for a new ride - especially at these prices! Everything on the bike, stock, is acceptable. But I had a few things laying around that I like - MKS pedals with Power Grips (highly recommend), carbon seatpost, Brooks leather seat, and a groovy 50/50 seatpost clamp. I immediately ditched the reflectors and dork disc, converted it to tubeless (you’ll need some tape), and swapped out the ridiculously long stem. I love the bike - I know there are rides with better components but really, I guess I’m just not at that level. However, I ride thousands of miles each year, in all conditions, and all terrain. While I loved my old XTR stuff, the reality was, my XT, and SLX were all awesome too - they just didn’t come with the prestige. The same goes for this group set - it works flawlessly. I do like a single chairing setup, but the double is pretty great, especially when time is spent on the road, gravel roads, and on single track. As for the 10-speed - I’m a fan. I know folks say 12-speed chains are as strong as 10-speed but they certainly don’t seem to be for this 200lb+ rider. Weight: no kidding - it’s heavy - but I’m not entirely sure where that weight is coming from. I guess it’s just a little all over. Mine is an XXL and it weighs in at ~28lbs. I’ve had heavier and lighter. Know that it’s not at all noticeable while riding - road, woods, or otherwise. Overall, amazing cost to value ratio here that will take you anywhere you want - unless you’re one of those super-human types. For us “mortal folks” this bike gets the job done!
