Hello,
A few years ago (2016), I bought a Trek Crockett 5 bike with the idea that I would do some cyclocross races. Here I am in 2019 and I have decided to do a gravel grinder. The race I have chosen is called Coast 2 Coast gravel grinder. It’s 210 miles that goes across the state of Michigan. There is a lot of very sandy areas, two track roads, a little single track i do believe, and “normal” Michigan gravel roads. I bought the bike before I knew what gravel racing was. My question is, what would you recommend I do to my bike to make it more comfortable for a 210 mile ride? I have already put 40mm tires on it, and changed the saddle.
great start!
Should I spend the money for carbon bars?
IMO, no.
Something like the salsa wood chipper?
Should I get a carbon seat post?
IMO NO but Cane Creek makes a legit seatpost FYI
Or should I save up and get a proper gravel bike built from the factory? Saving would mean I would most likely be doing this gravel race on a stock crockett 5.
The crockett is designed for quicker handling. Most gravel bikes have a longer front center to smooth out the ride and handle differently. 210 miles makes me think that I’d want something that takes a little less concentration to ride. I designed my gravel whip with a 70.5HTA and a 51mm rake to get trail numbers that fit my style of riding. On top of that my reach was lengthened and the stem was shortened to adjust the handling characteristcs more in my favor
Next question is how you might handle hydration on the bike? Backpack, 2 water bottles, or frame bag with bladder?
Camelbak Chase
Thanks for you input!