Thanks, I’ll try that next time. It’s been a bit of a frustration.
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I have the latest version of the Crux, a pure CX race bike, and all I do is gravel/road (and trainer). I flipped the stem (+6), put in as many spacers as possible, and use a 50cm wide +2cm riser drop bar (ControlTech ONE Gravel). I have a seriously messed up back, but I can do multi hour rides (on 38s) and not feel destroyed.
Is this ideal? Probably not, I would be better served by a Cutthroat or a 29er, but for my needs it works out just fine. And I love 'cross bikes so I get stoked just to ride it.
What 38s do you ride? Have you tried anything bigger? Did you change the 1x setup or manage with the CX race gearing for your gravel rides?
I have the same bike and want to see what others are doing for gravel setups.
I have Specialized Pathfinder Pros tubeless on the stock Axis rims. I have a 46/36 double up front with a SRAM 11-36 cassette. I’m considering upgrading to GRX 1x next year. I’ve never used 1x, but I’m curious.
According to the mechanics in my LBS, there’s a local dude here on a Crux who runs 42s. I am not sure what brand tire or rims he uses. I have a decent amount of room with 38s so I can see it working.
Fair enough…but that is talking about fit and handling, not “comfort”. That was the only point I have been trying to make.
I have 40’s on my Crux…Maxxis Ramblers. Pretty wide rim (24mm internal, IIRC) and there is plenty of room. (Tires measure spot on @40mm, inflated to 30psi).
Could definitely run 42’s if I wanted.
Kept the 1x and used a 40x36 for my smallest gear at DK this year…probably shoulda gone a bit bigger. Was definitely overgeared a few times. Around Northern Chicago, though it is plenty of gearing…usually run a 30 or 32 rear cog.
I did have to put a longer stem on my 54 Crux…ended up using a 120 (I sit long and low on my bikes). Saddle position is pretty close to my road position.
My only major nod to “comfort” was a suspension seatpost, but I have used one on all my CX bikes for about 20 years. Dunno why more people don’t use 'em, TBH.
2020 is full 105 hydro
Yeah I saw that. I’ll get it once funds allow…
I emailed 4iiii and Ribble (rather than chat). 4iiii said it should fit, Ribble insisting it won’t (so maybe it’s something with the frame). However, moved away from the Ribble, via a very close flirt with the Planet X Tempest (Force 1), to settle on the Topstone Carbon (105 or RX2 tbc)…
Length of frame warranty on both, but particularly the tempest; lack of try before you buy (for me due to location); and my relationship with my Local Bike Shop* who are Cannondale dealers. Had a look and brief test area spin, and I think it’ll cover my gravel and audax needs. Funky wheel dish and bottom bracket aside - I’ll cross the power meter issue down the line but the ngeco (amongst maybe others) should fit.
Without having seen it in person, I do like the look of the Revolt Advanced (I have a TCR advanced and a Defy Disc Alu), however, my now nearest dealer wasn’t that interested in getting one in for me a look and was pointing me elsewhere.
*There’s an awful lot to be said for this both buying, any issues etc. They’ve seen me right several times in terms of putting me top of the queue. Plus, it’s very conveniently located.
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My wife has the Topstone Carbon with GRX. It’s a fantastic bike and I love the GRX. My only complaint is that the rear wheel is a pain to insert/remove due to the clutched derailleur. Like you, it was purchased locally due to it being from my LBS, which is just a wonderful business that goes above and beyond for their customers.
I have a 4iiii on my Ultegra crankset on a Tarmac. If you haven’t seen it already, they have this nice measurement guide to help you decide fit: https://4iiii.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Ride-ready-clearance-check-A4.pdf
I have two 4iiii - one ultegra, one 105. Neither will fit the Topstone, but I think I’m comfortable with that for the moment.
Hoping to nip out to discuss my options on the Topstone today. Dirty Reiver on my list for next year, plus after hauling the Kona Rove AL up climbs, I’m looking forward to greater than 1:1 ratios the Topstone offers.
Only the RX2 has the clutch rear mech. It’s whether I can stretch to that really - ultegra Derailluers, brakes and levers, Lighter Rims, Carbon Seat Post, Cro-mo saddle rails are the upgrades versus the 105 option. Heart says yes, head says no!
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What is RX2? The wife’s Topstone Carbon has GRX on it. It’s definitely clutched. Do you mean it’s an RX with a double up front? That’s what she has. (Sorry if that’s a dumb question, I googled first and can’t find anything called RX2)
The (carbon) options here in Ireland are (in ascending price order) 105, RX2 (ultegra), RX (ultegra, their 105 finishing kit, but carbon wheelset), Force eTap. No GRX option.
The 105 option has a standard 105 rear mech.
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Ahh! Cannondale number not Shimano. Got it.
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Are you turning off the clutch when you remove the wheel? The switch is intended to address this issue specifically.
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Yes. Still takes several minutes to figure out each time.
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Happy with the stores prices compared to list, so last dilemma is whether to stretch to the RX2 model. The individual upgrades don’t seem to add up cost wise, for some ultegra, lighter wheelset and carbon seat post. More than a euro a gram of weight saving, plus ultegra is nicer.
This n+1 causing way more headaches than it should.
Is the clutch mech a big difference/ advantage?
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This is the fun part! Enjoy the hunt.
I haven’t noticed any advantage to the clutch myself, but to be fair, the wife doesn’t go on the crazy drops or things where I think it would have an impact. I do love the brifters and hoods though!
Turning into a headache! I think I’ve made a decision I get a curve ball! 
Anyway will sleep on it. No great panic, yet.
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I’m in CO and need those low gears for long climbs. Was thinking I could throw on a 10-42 cassette onto a different wheel for gravel riding on the 1x front. Would need a longer chain but the rival long cage should be able to handle it I think. That would get me at least 1-1 ratio for those huge climb days.