this is probably my favorite gravel though sometimes i like to mix it up with some chunkier stuff
this post was submitted on 09 Jul 2023
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I’ve been on a specialized diverge alloy for 2 years and about 2000 miles through every type of terrain imaginable and it rides strong. Never had a single issue. Pathfinder pro tires will likely be a good bet if you’re mixing gravel and road. My next bike will absolutely be a diverge.
I’d go 1x with a big cassette in the back if there are hills/mountains where you live. The new sram mullet drivetrains are rad.
I'd second the diverge. I ride a base e5 with the pathfinder pros. I usually am just riding on the street but it's a great feeling bike and I like that I can take it out for some light trail action if I ever feel like it. Usually, I'm just happy to be riding. Maybe I'll get around to changing it to a 1x.
I’ve been on a trek checkpoint and it’s been nothing short of fantastic.
Could you slap some beefier tires on? I’m actually thinking about that myself with my road bike… ride that then get a new one… unless you plan on riding road still
Gravel recommendations are hard as gravel can range from pretty-much-tarmac to CHUNK. But I'll try at least. For the record I'm riding a Canyon GRIZL, 2x10 gears and 45mm tyres. This I'm navigating on up to blue MTB trails so it is quite capable. If I would buy again I would get very similar specs except I would go for a metal frame, probably steel.
So recommendations then. I would go for a lot of gear range, on my I have about 430% and it is enough. Wouldn't mind an additional climbing gear or two. Not sure if a high end MTB 1x system can be gotten with drop bar shifters but barring that I would go for a 2x system. The extra range really helps. For tyres I would make sure the frame can accommodate 45mm as that will allow you to go CHUNKY if needed. But some 35mm fast rolling tyres would be a good starting point if you only have light gravel. Mechanical disc breaks would most likely be enough but if you go mid-tier it will most likely be hydraulic and those are great. Suspension I wouldn't bother with, go for more tyre instead. Oh and mounting points for EVERYTHING. Fenders, racks, bags, bottles etc. Fenders especially can be a godsend if you find yourself on slightly damp gravel, they also save the paint job. I would also try to find one with mounts for rear rack as I find a seat back sways too much. Personal preference there.
The Priority Apollo is a great all-rounder gravel bike that is super low maintenance with a Shimano Alfine 11 internally geared hub and Gates carbon belt drive. It won’t be the fastest on the road but handles all terrains well. My personal riding experience with the Apollo is a combination of paved, dirt and light gravel and it’s easily handled all three. Purchasing is online only but the Priority team is very knowledgeable and quick to respond to any questions you may have about features, sizing, concerns, etc.