Need to splash the cash
So… after 35+ years it’s time to retire my Peugeot rigid mountain bike with Reynolds 531 frame. Shame.
I’d like to pick your brains and I’m looking for a replacement. The new bike will be mainly used for a 12 km commute along pot-holed cycle paths and cobble streets. I want something quick, but have decided against a road bike as I’d be shaken to pieces. Plus a gravel bike will be useful at the weekends for off-road trails. I also need something that can take a pannier rack. For sure before splashing any cash I'll do a test ride and see what feels a natural fit.
I have 3 contenders:
- Trek Checkpoint SL 5 AXS gen 3
3k Euro with SRAM Apex XPLR AXS and 30 day money back guarantee, plus I can buy from a local Trek store. Unfortunately the colours available are not my favourite.
I’m aware the Trek only has a single crank set, yet I’ll be normally cruising at around 25km/h for most of the journey. Does this mean I’ll live in the higher gears with the chain spending most of its time twisted? Something I need to consider?
2. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 2 L Jade
https://www.das-radhaus.de/cannondale-topstone-carbon-2-l-jade-2024/
It’s brand new but an old model (2024) going for 3k Euro with Kingpin suspension. Cables messy on the front but the bike appears well reviewed.
3. Topstone Carbon 3 GRX - 2x
https://www.cannondale.com/de-de/bikes/road/gravel/topstone-carbon/topstone-carbon-3-grx-2x
The current Topstone model also with Kingpin suspension, and in orange which I love. Downside is the component spec is not as good as the 2024 model. Also 3k Euro
Any advice regarding the above? Something I may have missed when deciding between them?
Thank you kindly for any feedback.