@p0is0n0ak, I hadn't heard of it before you mentioned it, but that thing just looks like it would be comfortable lol. I definitely plan on checking this one out further, thanks!
p0is0n0ak wrote:I'm using the SQ Labs 611 active on both the mountain and gravel bikes and like it a lot. I recently did 70 miles with no soreness at all, FWIW.
Second that! 250km+ rides and 500km+weekend no issue for me on a sq 612 active.
Regarding Hunt and Flo wheels: as I said personal. Hunt: A friend had bad customer experience and the products are well marketed but not exactly specialc(did a test ride on his wheelsets, he owns 2). I could get (much) better hand built wheels for similar prices through local builders. I also prefer easily serviced brand-hubs over own brand (I own dt Swiss and carbon-ti). Flo, had suboptimal customer contact with them when I was researching a new wheelset previously. Now revisited the website I think they are just (way) overpriced compared to other exceptional wheelsets. (ie 303 firecrest prices for a flo gravel wheelset is not in balance if you ask me, or marketing shoutout "first aerodynamic blabla gravel. Just not my preference.).
Depending on budget: 1500usd= I would personally go for a hand built set, local if possible. ~1000usd = spinergy / Light bicycle.
The new Ritchey Beacon bars (flat top, shallow drop, flared) are very nice for this kind of build. I have mine paired with a Redshift (suspension) stem to take the edge off hard, dry trails.
My lowest gear is 42x42 which gets me up most climbs in the UK
Lots of great wheel choices - I used a set of DT spline 1501 and have been impressed so far. I got a great deal so that definitely swayed me.
I have success with the Specialized Phenom saddle buts its quite a personal choice.
