Hello all,
\nI'm tired of the ride quality of my aluminum cyclocross frame. What frame and fork recommendation do you have for an $800 budget.
\nMy riding is almost exclusively gravel, with a mix of touring and racing. Unfortunately I can only afford 1 bike and will be moving most of my current components over. My priorities are comfort and versatility. I will never be fast, so weight isn't a huge concern. I'm a 5'7", 155lb, middle age rider.
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I got a good deal on Swiss Cross Canti frameset last year from Ritchie. It's a great triple butted steel frame, with a Ritchie full carbon fork and drop in head set. The list price is around $1300. I got mine on sale for $1,000. Shop around, and you may be able to get a good deal. I actually prefer a Canti frame, as it allows me to use my collection on non-disc high end race wheels (130 mm rear hub). The Swiss Cross is spec'd for tires up to 38mm; but the guys at Gravel Cyclist run 40mm on theirs. The difference between the steel Swiss Cross and my Alu Haanjo Comp is night and day. As a multi purpose bike, the Swiss cross should be re-labed as the "Swiss Army Knife". I use it for high speed romps on pavement, as well as tough slogs through the dirt and gravel roads of rural NH. If you want to go disc, Ritchie also makes the the Swiss Cross Disc. Similar frame with 135mm rear spacing and disk specific mounts on on chain stay and fork. You may have a harder time getting a deal on the disc frame set, though.
You can get a Raleigh Tamland frame/fork a good deal (if you have regular 9mm QR). Or they have a steel cross bike with thru axles for a little over your budget. Check their website.
Even though it's aluminum...I love my Kona Private Jake. Rides as nice as my highend carbon Renegade. Throw some fat tires (40c) under there and it's like riding on clouds.
