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Chinese Carbon Road Bikes => Cyclocross Frames, Wheels & Components => Topic started by: jwilds1 on January 02, 2018, 10:02:51 AM

Title: XMCarbonSpeed CS-GR029 as a commuter?
Post by: jwilds1 on January 02, 2018, 10:02:51 AM
I'm back again, this time with a possible 3rd build.  First was an XMIPlay 29er, second was an eBay 14" 26er for my son (who has now outgrown - that'll be #4 probably in a few months), but now with a commuter build.

Right before the end of the year, I applied & got accepted for what would best be described as my DREAM JOB - doing exactly what I love, and the best part is it's a 6-mile commute from my home.  The build bug started to rear it's head as soon as I hit the "APPLY FOR THIS JOB" button  ;)

I live in Southeast Michigan, and as such, can only commute by bike about 6 months in the year.  Additionally, I'll probably only be able to ride one or two days a week due to personal obligations.  That said, I enjoy the building process and this will be my one-and-only "Non-Trail" bike.

I'm currently evaluating the following components, and would appreciate another set or two of eyes to ensure I'm not getting into problems:


I have never worked with SRAM components, so this will be new to me.  Also, this will be my first non-MTB build.
Title: Re: XMCarbonSpeed CS-GR029 as a commuter?
Post by: carbonazza on January 02, 2018, 02:45:24 PM
Congratulations for the dream job and this new build.
2018 seems to start well for you !

I decided for the same cassette for my upcoming gravel bike if that may comfort you in your choices  :)
The other parts look they will fit well together.
To me SRAM is more innovative, and have smart little features that I prefer over Shimano.
Title: Re: XMCarbonSpeed CS-GR029 as a commuter?
Post by: jwilds1 on January 03, 2018, 06:54:59 AM
Thanks!!! 

The biggest difficulty for me has been assembling the groupset.  For builds 1 and 2, it was as easy as ordering 1 item (crankset, BB, front derailleur, rear derailleur, rear gears, brakes).  This time, unless I want to go with > $1k group, I have to order it in bits and pieces.

I was also able to find the correct brifter setup for the 1x (brake only left, 11sp + brake right) and that'll save me about $40.
Title: Re: XMCarbonSpeed CS-GR029 as a commuter?
Post by: Srmanuel on June 29, 2018, 01:38:21 AM
How much did you spend in total?

Any recommendations for spending around 1k?