$799 STATE All-Road Gravel Bike- Any Good?

[@kaseycarpenter73]

I bought one of these (his name is "Dewey" as in he "Do it all") solely based on your video when you briefly mentioned it way back in June. I was in the market for a gravel/allroad and had my sights/pocketbook set on another producer when I saw this. It checked off everything for me: steel frame, Sensah 1xdrivetrain, dual wheelset (I got the 650b and 700c package) mechanical disc brakes, thru axles, and mounts galore. I also liked that the cables were all 100% enclosed in cable housing along the frame, this cut down on rust/wear/etc… I’ve since put over 2600 miles on this thing (been riding a lot this summer) including a few fully-loaded bikepacking trips. Your assessment of this thing as a “platform” is spot on. I’ve upgraded the saddle, the pedals, and have bought all the bags I could ever need for bikepacking, as well as ordered a set of Hunt Dyno 650b so I can power all the things while riding. In Texas, in the summer, the best time to ride from a temperature and traffic POV is at night, so lighting is key. I digress. This thing is bulletproof. Which is also why it’s so heavy. But, the geometry goes a long way towards masking how portly the thing is by way of suppleness™ and responsiveness. I can see a LOT of people using this as a platform to test the waters of endurance/bikepacking without dropping $5k - all at once. The fact that this frame still offers all the modern wants of an allroad bike means you are a bit future-proofed, and can even upgrade this thing into an entirely new bike - while still riding it. I’ve taken it into Hill Country, which, while this is no Colorado, there are some climbs. Even fully loaded (55lbs!) with camping gear, I was still able to get over the hills with the stock gearing, but I can see where maybe a 38 up front, ideally with a 50x9 rear, could come in handy on the steeper, sloppier stuff. Mine came with the panaracers, which are light and grippy but lose their tread in about 8 minutes and have the puncture resistance of a sandwich bag. So owing to the fact that this thing is already a beast, I went for Serfas Drifters (I love negative tread tires for mixed riding) and Tannus inserts with lightweight tubes filled with sealant. Overkill? Maybe. However, 2600 miles = no flats. Worth the weight IMHO. If this were a carbon KOM-build bike, then sure, I’d go a different route. But why put Koenigsegg carbon fiber wheels on a ’64 Eldorado? Oh and that fork… I managed to put two blackburn cages, two profile bottle cages, a pump, a headlight, and a C02 carrier on that thing. It’s pretty amazing. After the wheels, my next upgrade would probably be a bottom bracket from Hambini or Cane Creek - something more bulletproof than this one. Still, for the money? I don't think it can be beaten if you are looking for steel, flexibility, future-proofing, and comfort.

[@Mosely2007]

Nice review. I got a Salsa Vaya ,steel bulletproof. Use Panaracer gravel kings 45mm on Hunt Gravel wheelset. Great riding but heavy. Tired of carrying broken carbon frames home. 7 broken carbon frames. 2 left. My Trek Madone already broke the fork and chainstay. I'm done replaced trek with Ritchey Road Logic which is more durable and rides better.

[@sagehiker]

Nice profile and story. Great interface with Russ’s review.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

@@Mosely2007 yeah carbon is fun until it isn't. Since my go-fast days are waaay behind me, I look for reliability over long distances. I recently did a 175-mile straight-through ride on this thing over hills in Central Texas fully loaded with bikepacking gear, food & water (55lbs) with 7800 feet of elevation change (i.e. a Texas Everest, lol) and it didn't even need a tune afterwards, just a good wash. Think pack mule versus thoroughbred.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

@@sagehiker Thanks. I am a sucker for things that punch above their weight. Previous life was in the wine world and I was far more excited about an $8 bottle of wine that was awesome versus a $500 bottle that had no excuse but to be awesome. This bike is a bonafide overachiever in my book, having owned everything from Ciocc SLX and Vitus bonded frame & Campy C Records in my youth (wish I still had those Delta brakes) down to throw-away $300 amazon commuter bikes - this is one of the best allroad/gravel/commuter/bikepacker setups you can get for the $$$

[@Mosely2007]

Kasey Carpenter I agree with you. I'm 71 started on steel bikes, then aluminum , then carbon. Triathlete for 30 years and a weight weenie when racing. Last Madone frame set me back 5k. Broke , replaced now it mostly hangs in the garage. Main bikes Trek Crockett cross, Specialized Diverge both aluminum and the Salsa this April. All have tubeless wheels/tires. Ride thousands of miles on gravel . Hundreds each week. Old and slower 980 plus consecutive days on a bike 37002 miles. Don't believe anyone that says I'm too old for fun

[@ericallnight]

More less expensive bike reviews and recs please! Would love a sub $1500 rec. for a newbie. Great channel!!

[@conman1395]

Sub $1500? Look at the aluminum version of this bike with a carbon fork for $1400!

[@liquidwombat]

Great review. However, instead of getting the 650 B version and switching out to smoother tires, if somebody is riding a lot of pavement I would suggest they just order the bike with the 700 C wheels that come with 700 x 38 semislick Vitoria Terreno Zero tires. Also, while I agree it definitely could have shipped with lower gears state does have a 38 tooth, 40 tooth, and 44 tooth chain rings available for a very reasonable $28

[@kaseycarpenter73]

100% on the dual tire option. when I pry all the bikepacking stuff off of it and put the 700c slicks on it, it behaves (naturally) like a completely different bike and give me the ability to hang with the group rides. But when I want to get back to the supple life™ and go off into the woods, those 650b wheels are right there. Don't forget that when you get that 2nd wheelset option you also get a spacer, cassette, brake disc, tires and tubes - not bad for the $$$

[@chrislukes9037]

haha was thinking the same thing. I think Russ is so in love with 650B that his first thought was more pavement-friendly 650Bs, but this shows his bias.

[@chrislukes9037]

@@kaseycarpenter73 do you know -- is the frame the same between the two "versions"? If so, I would call these wheelset options, not "versions" as Russ said, but I realize there are possibly slight differences in frame geometry depending on the "native" wheel size the bike was purchased with (based on your experience, you can still swap them out either way, it sounds like)

[@kaseycarpenter73]

@@chrislukes9037 Sorry, yes the frame and componentry are 100% identical less the wheelsets, which both work on the bike perfectly in my experience...

[@manny6584]

Just had my bike assemble Saturday. I went with the 650b and purchased A pair of gravel Kings. I wasn't happy with the mountain bike tire it comes with now.

[@Summitperry]

So I have had mine about a month. I had a couple little issues first I didnt get the barzo's I ended up with the GK's which is kinda a upgraded. also the rear thru axle was over torqued and stripped from the factory. they sent a new hanger and axle out. so that was good. I also ordered the 38T ring gear and it didnt show up. got refund because none in stock. I think I will get a larger rear cassette sounds like 11-46 works ok from what I have read on the interwebs, I only have a couple hundred miles on it so far and no issues to report rides nice, no complaints happy with the bike over all.

[@towtowstrailtalk6853]

I bought one back in August, about 500 miles on now, getting ready to take it on a little winter tour from Kentucky down to New Orleans Louisiana. I did put a smaller chain ring on the front love this bike

[@sethgreenlund5065]

I have one and I love it! It's even sporting a Partypace sticker. You can load this thing up with as much gear as you want and it does not care. I agree with Russ that the brakes are not good though. At first they seemed like they were breaking in nicely, but then progressively got worse. That's going to be my first upgrade.

[@emceeaye]

Thank you, what a great detailed review of the relevant points. I like the idea of getting this bike for it's versatility: 1) Being able to swap out wheel sets: I'm mostly a paved road rider up and down hilly streets, but sometimes would like to take it on gravel fire-roads or single tracks. 2) Get 11-46 cassette in a back for lower gearing and whatever chain ring in the front makes sense for me). 3) Change out brakes for a hydromechanical setup (Winn R1s or the TRP HYRDs). 4) put on a rear rack for a child seat for my 2-year-old. But, I'm noticing that the largest frame size ("Large") is 55 cm size. I'm thinking that will be a problem since I'm 6'3", inseam=34.6" and arm-length= 29". Can you please recommend some other bikes with a good versatile base like this one that have larger frames that can accommodate my height (60 cm or 61 cm)? Thank you in advance. Lee

[@geoma-projects]

I just ordered a Poseidon X for $750 shipped. The State All-Road was appealing but the price and availability of the X swayed me. Also the biggest difference is the Poseidon X comes in an aluminum frame with carbon fiber fork, clearance for 1.9' 650B, less mounting points, QR wheels, and Microshift 1x10 drivetrain.

[@gsabella4]

How do you like it? i'm torn between the Poseidon X and All-road

[@JeffWagen]

This drivetrain is a rebranded sensah srx pro, it can take a 52 cassete with no problems.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

I thought that too, but the guys at State said it was too tight... maybe with a wolftooth extender? Have you run a 52 on this groupset yourself? Curious as to results...

[@JeffWagen]

@@kaseycarpenter73 no, I don't own one, I'm thinking on getting one of these to build a cheap bike, for what I saw it works nice and people using it with a 50t cassete didn't complain about nothing, I'm just afraid of the durability since the shifter is the same as the Empire pro that uses a plastic cam to change the gears and there are lots of complaints about it braking. Seems that sensah is updating it to an alloy cam but other than that I don't know.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

@@JeffWagen hmm... it seems like there *might* be room between the top jockey and the lowest gear, but I think we'd need an extender. As to the plastic versus alloy, I can't say, but it seems pretty crisp so far, and I'm not one of those "smart shifters" who avoid shifting under load, I've been pretty forceful - but short of abusive - with this groupset and it has delivered beautifully for the money.

[@JeffWagen]

@@kaseycarpenter73 I'll probably end using this gruppo, but I'll try a Shimano deore 11-51 cassete with a 38 chainring, plenty of hills around where I live lol.

[@SiopaoSauc3]

@@kaseycarpenter73 in his interview with ACN, the guy from State said they had the sensah rear mech tuned to their spec, so probably optimized for the 42. I also think it doesn't have a clutch but just extra beefy springs.

[@mfroehlich1104]

I grabbed a frame when it was first released. I did a modest build (splurged a little on the Hunt wheelset-not that they're horrible expensive anyway) and got a large to weigh in at about 24 lbs. Probably one of the most comfortable bikes I've ridden/owned in a while

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

That’s a reasonable weight. What drivetrain?

[@mfroehlich1104]

@@PathLessPedaledTV Bike Check: SLX 1x 11 crank and rear derailleur, Microshift 11-46 cassette, Microshift bar-end shifter, Spyre cable disk brakes, Hunt Mason 4 Season 700c wheels, Panaracer GravelKing SK tires (tubeless) Ritchey Venturemax bars, Ritchey stem and seatpost.

[@TimothyJamesOng]

@@mfroehlich1104 Do you have any pics of the bike? Sounds like a sweet build.

[@SiopaoSauc3]

That derailleur can take up to 50t cassettes. A sunrace one would be a nice affordable upgrade.

[@GasmanA]

Are you sure? What are you basing it on? I’m just curious as I had to replace the cassette after the first ride (bummer SBC doesn’t reimburse you for labor) and i wish i went with at 11-46 or even the eThirteen 9-46.

[@jamieh4814]

I bought one, small also, and I have ridden it on two 40 mile rides 50/50 gravel and pavement. The bike is very comfortable and stable at speed especially on descents as you observed. The Barzos are trash and i already had to change them out between my first and second ride. The front Barzo was tubeless ready and the bead was disentegrating and the tire started to delaminate. The rear tire was wire bead and was on the rim so tight it took me a few hours to cut it off. Good thing I didn’t have a flat on that first ride! The second ride I put on some tubeless Donnely USH Strada 650 x 50. Very nice change, wish that I didn’t have to do it though! I cut the seat post and put on a saddle that I usually ride. The shifters are very nice and that was a good choice. I am happy with the purchase but I would like to change out the front ring for a 40 and add a carbon fork when they become available. The bike will be way more than $799 by the time I am finished upgrading it.

[@JeffWagen]

I'm looking to build a cheap bike and I'm considering this drivetrain, how is it holding up? Thanks

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Only reviewing the bike for a few weeks so can’t comment on durability.

[@Alex_564]

Ooof, been there with wirebead tires tubed. Thankfully, for me it was when the tire was mostly worn out & it was time to change. It was so tight that had to use wire cutters to get the tire off without messing with the tubeless tape.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

@@JeffWagen I've put 2600 hard miles on it and do all the usual maintenance (chain/cassette/etc...) it still shifts pretty crisply for me. I had to readjust it once after a hillspill, but otherwise, it works better than some lower-end Shimano IMHO.

[@JeffWagen]

@@kaseycarpenter73 thanks, that is good to know.

Been on mine for a month now, it's the best gravel bike I have ever owned! Also, the only gravel bike... But as a life long MTBer, I'm finding this is a lot of fun to ride! I went with 650b, so it rides smooth! Love it!

I should note: I did end up ordering wider bars, coming from the world of enduro bikes, and riding an MTB with a 820mm wide bars, I had to get a PNW Coast Bar 540 and stem 60mm. The stock 420mm was just too cramped for me, I'm a big Nordic boy, 6'3" and wide shoulders.

[@bicyclecult]

Sold my Kona Rove and ordered one. Pretty spot on review. I had to dial in the derailer and find out some overtightened bolts but really digging the bike.

[@ivanivy1011]

Thank you, really good honest review.

[@kimkrimson]

Thanks for the honest review Russ

[@sagehiker]

Did I ever comment on, I love your test loop? It is so like my riding environment, including winter, that I feel like your reviews have more relevance for me.

[@mauisean007]

Great video! Looking forward to your Poseidon Redwood video. Right now trying to decide between the Poseidon Redwood, the Poseidon X or the State 4130

[@peters6661]

Which did you end up getting? I'm looking at those three for next purchase.

[@samh8130]

Also interested in these three and trying to decide

[@mauisean007]

@@peters6661 I actually got a pre-owned Kona CX. Go figure lol. But honestly if the Kona wasn't available I was prepared to get the State 4130

[@WhatisHealth-q7l]

I ordered a small. Should be here Sunday. Western Rockies planned upgrades; SR 50T Cassette, tubeless, new seat post and Crank Bros Wheelset. Up or down out here, and then there's Moab, the swell...

[@WhatisHealth-q7l]

6 days to ship from purchase.

[@jameshuggins4300]

Nice review Russ thanks. I've updated my old hardtail with a new seat,pedals and handlebar stem combo Hopefully the world will straighten out and I can get something new next. So many awesome bikes and brands out there these days makes it hard to choose. Real world tests like yours help thanks

[@mjjohn7715]

As you were going over the components my first two thoughts were the gearing and tires. I agree changes these and you have a good entry level bike at this price.

[@nomap2161]

I wish this frame was available before I put my deposit on a Fairlight Faran 2.0. For under $1000, this is a great way to get into bikepacking or touring. You could easily cut some 2lbs by going tubeless, swapping out for Hunt wheels and replacing the seatpost for a carbon post.

[@allentufts5185]

Great review thanks

[@amishcyborg6407]

Ordered one. Seemed like a good buy. I'll have more to say when I receive and ride the bike. Peace ✌️🤜🤛

[@avoidrealnames]

Any update on that new bike? Looking into this bike for myself

[@gavin7390]

@@avoidrealnames I'm also planning on buying it. Did you end up getting it?

[@pinonoir7287]

Thanks for this review & looking forward to your thoughts on the Poseidon redwood!

[@robertnowlin9404]

This bike was just delivered and I had it professionally assembled. I worry, about the gearing. But, I agree about the upgradability. I was impressed at the simplicity in design, and equally by the number of places to mount things. I will consider having this re-geared with perhaps a double up front in the future.

[@craiglycke6170]

I’m buying this bike bc of your review. Stellar as always.

[@MitchCrane]

We definitely need to see more fat tire, all-road bikes with something like a 38:42 gearing.

[@tailswinsmore5054]

one came into my shop, shifting was great but the breaking was terrifying.

[@johnnydoe66]

Looking forward to your review of the Poseidon Redwood. Spindatt currently has one and for the price, setup, and looks, it's at the top of my list for a possible budget friendly gravel bike

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Coming in a week or two.

[@juliapoelstra3624]

Throw a $15, 38t chainring and voila! It would be a great bike to recommend to a buddy looking to get into cycling. Less sticker shock.

[@donbaranda]

Great review! I couldn't find many reviews on these State bikes. Have you considered testing their Aluminum Version of the All Road? It's about 2x the price of this one.

[@Nasirisme]

i was thinking this was the perfect bike for me its everything i wanted 2 inch 27.5 tires fork mounts drop bars 1x big range and so i looked for a review and this was uploaded on my birthday... saving up for one

[@anielyantra1]

Thank you for your contribution to the collective consciousness of bikes. I have followed many of your suggestions. I have trimmed my seat post. I have tailored my tires for the terrain I ride. Most importantly is the gearing. So many manufacturers over gear their bikes (especially on the top end) In Sedona, there is only 2 directions you ride; up-hill or down-hill. I have found that the ideal gearing is a 32 T chainring with a 11-34T cassette. Reference ratio is 1:1 and 32T chainring means you can get by with smaller gears (less weight) in the cassette. (for bike packing the 11-36T is better). Most people if they are going faster than 20 mph would prefer to coast with their hands on the brakes so the highend gears are useless weight. I am pretty sure 90% of cyclists are NOT in competitions contrary to advertizing hype.

[@racerx8410712]

I know 1x is so en vogue right now but with bikes like this I think a 2x system would give the bike much more range and efficiency. Considering the weight as well I would go 2x with two front rings: a 30t (for a .71 final low ratio) and for the tall ring something in the 38t-42t range.

[@mrski4945]

This review and the comparison review of this one and the Poseidon Redwood I've watched about 5x each. For me, I like the component build of the Redwood better than the State All-Road, but I am a Steel guy, and Posiedons' Aluminum frame is a deal killer. On the other hand, I like your Richey Accent review and find the STATE All-Road (not the same) but close in terms of smoothness, ride quality and handling (?). Anyway, I've decided on purchasing the State All-Road in the near future. Thank you for your reviews, they definitely helped me in my decision.

[@gavin7390]

Got the bike yet? I'm probably going to buy it soon as well

[@mrski4945]

@@gavin7390 Not yet, thinking for the holydays, a Santa gift for myself.

[@rbrADV]

The bike is also available with lighter tubeless-ready 700c wheels and tires for road and easy trails!

[@bradd5112]

Nice review, just started seeing your vids and I think you've been doing a great job, keep posting!!

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

There’s nearly a 1000 of them to watch :)

[@bradd5112]

@@PathLessPedaledTV I might have to be a bit selective lol, thanks for the great content

[@automat8]

Thanks Russ for fishing economical bikes.

[@bobmcmahon9528]

Any thoughts on this bike vs the Breezer Radar Expert? Great review (as always)!

[@jp87bmr]

Would also be interested in that comparison.

[@GasmanA]

I have the SBC, my Brother has the radar....in summary in think the breezer is slightly better quality but the all road rides much better. If your on a budget, or not, the SBC with 700 and 650b is perfect. SBC feels more supple, Breezer feels harsher but more stable. I do like the 2x on the Breezer Expert but thats preference.

[@MrRay645]

I am late to the party but thank you for the helpful video. I was looking for a more upright/packable bike for my wife, never heard of a State bike before but after watching the video I searched for some more info and found both the XS and S in stock locally...and were even older models in grey, little cheaper and we think look MUCH better the black / bronze colors on the current ones. She is 5'5" and we got the XS. The MTB rubber was replaced with a set of new American Classics Wentworths I had on the shelf (sealed right up tubeless with just tape/valves before adding any sealant) ,Brakes were greatly improved with compressionless housing but think we will still put some TRP Spyres on it, we dont see any use for a 42t from ring and I will order a replacement 110 3/38t for $20 here soon. I fully expected to swap out the drive train with a SRAM Apex 1 11s I have laying around but the bike seems to shift really well and she finds the levers/hoods are comfortable so guess we will see how long this group lasts before messing with it. Wheels are heavy and my wife only weighs 115 pounds so figure we could go pretty light without stressing about strength even with an extra 20/25 pounds of gear/water on it. an $800 bike leaves a good chunk of change left over for tweaking/upgrading.

[@nathanxbond]

If you can't rip on one of these you won't be able to rip on something more expensive. Bikes like these will get you in shape.

[@cottontop99]

Here in the UK I bought a Triban 120 Gravel from Decathlon for £500 ($650) 2 months ago. It seriously exceeded my expectations and was apprehensive of a 1x setup (38 tooth front). Yes there are some niggles (the brakes are not spot on and I wish it was a 42 front), but for the money is a steal!!

[@williamlebron9873]

GREAT review. Can you please...please try to get your hands on a Twin Six Rando. The Rando looks so SWEET. It’s got tons of eyelets. They a 650B & a 700 version.

[@jacobbockover1628]

Never had a gravel bike but they seem like early 90s mtb with drops. Looks like you could swap out the front chain ring for like a 40t to help with hills

[@MMcG25]

Russ - how about a video on frame-sets for those folks who have leftover parts from past builds like 29er or 650b wheels with old school (now) 135/100mm spacing that sort of thing.

[@codyawz]

Surly Cross Check? 700c though.

[@elijahheadrick1389]

Ive got the 6061 All Road, absolutely love the thing! For the price I think it was a great choice. Ive got a few issues with it though, at least from my views. The wheelset is a bit heavy, and the internal rim width isnt quite where Id like it for wide tires. (45mm) The cassette is VERY heavy, but I had a take off GX cassette from my MTB that I swapped it with, saved like a half pound lol I dont care for their single bolt seat clamp, it seemed that no matter how tight I would clamp it down, the seat would always tick backward in the clamp. Otherwise I love the thing and Ive slapped all kinds of upgrades on it. Some Spinergy GXX wheels, WTB Raddler 45mm, floating rotors, and an X01 cassette, along with Easton components all round, bars, seat post, stem, as well as some EC90SL cranks and Look carbon pedals. Got her down to 19lb!

[@mateofiero]

I ended up with the 6061. I ordered the 4130 but because they came up short on frames last summer they "upgraded" me to the 6061. I thought that was a win until I realized how few mounts it had and it would not be a viable bike-packer. I was wooed by the upgrade, but didn't do my due diligence in the time of covid and bike shortages, and dang it I wanted a gravel bike! I am selling it now. In hindsight I wanted a steel bike with more mounts. But I also don't like the way it rides - super sluggish on pavement, slow roller when coasting downhill. I admit it is pretty nice on gravel but if I can't easily outfit it with racks and load it, well that doesn't help in the long run. I considered buying just a steel frame set and moving all the parts, but then I found a Surly that I like way better and is slightly bigger/fits me better - I couldn't test ride the 6061 All-Road since no one close sells State bikes, so I took the chance and pandemic ordered. As a number of people have pointed out the frames might be pretty good for the price, but the drivetrain, and brakes (especially) are cheap. I know I took a chance on a sub- $1000 bike but honestly, I'd rather get on my Trek Marlin 6 than this bike and the Marlin was even less $$. I know not the same style bike, but in my opinion a better build for less money.

[@backdoorslam]

I don't know about these particular shifters but Sensah uses weak plastic inner pin and some riders reported that it broke. Shimano uses steel for that same inner part. I would wait to read more reviews about Sensah before I jump to "save". Meanwhile I'll stay with my claris.

[@aaronvianzon]

Was looking to order one yesterday. Sold Out!

[@GasmanA]

They are back..... I was lucky enough to get one of the Nomad SE....agree with Russ on the tires, I hated the Baracco’s and put on Gravel Kings and made a big diff. I can not go tubeless for some reason and SBC is not helping so off to the LBS.

[@michaelr7353]

Great review! ( like always) Is there ever a chance you could get the chance to review a jamis renegade?? I think that would be a cool bike to see on ur channel. Keep up the great work.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Working on it!

[@michaelr7353]

Nice! I'm new to the cycling world ( 2018) and after a winter of research i decided to go with the s3. Which I will say im happy with. Plan to buy some hunt wheels for it next year...( my complaints would be the tires not lasting long)

[@gumpracer]

I picked up a Renegade Expat LTD at the beginning of the pandemic. I absolutely love it. Swapped out the 30 tpi Donnelly tires, and went tubeless with the Gravelking SK. That proved to be a significant upgrade. I have no complaints.

[@gobybike99]

Test rode a expat last weekend. It had 50/34 I think crankset and felt sluggish. I wished it had a lower geared crankset.

[@JayHeartwing]

Me, riding with my $248 alloy frame/steel fork road bike that I converted into gravel bike: That's really sweet.

[@astro61362]

Good looking bike. Can't beat that price.

[@snafu0o0o]

I’ve been riding this for a few months and it’s my first gravel bike (I’ve been riding MTB’s and even using an old cheap hard tail from Bikes Direct as my commuter and city bike for five years). I agree on the gearing. Climbing dirt mountain roads in Colorado has been tough even without a big load. The brakes have been... annoying at times haha I can’t seem to keep the front brake on either the 700 or 650 wheel set from being noisy while using on some rides. I love the sturdy utility though. I’ve setup both the panaracer tires on the two wheel sets as tubeless and it feels great (till I punctured the rear 650b and bent the wheel a bit on a GIANT pot hole by some railroad tracks). The bike has already been banged around on a trunk mounted bike rack and in the back of my truck bed for hundreds of miles without an issue. I’m dreaming up some gearing, brake, and handlebar upgrades over the next year. It’s been fun on the street and the dirt and feels like a good value for my first ever gravel or even drop bar bike.

[@JeffWagen]

I'm looking to build a cheap bike and I'm considering this drivetrain, how is it holding up? Thanks

[@snafu0o0o]

Jefferson Wagenknecht it’s doing good. I somehow bent a link or two of the chain on the first real ride but it’s been shifting really well despite a lot dirt, rocks, and all that.

[@JeffWagen]

@@snafu0o0o thanks man, that's good news.

[@dpell3543]

I have a Salsa Journeyman flatbar Claris. Planning to put cowchippers on it. No throughaxil but I'm not that sophisticated.

[@TimFitzwater]

I guess there are a lot of people out there who like new things - to me it seems you could get much more bike at this price point used though. I don’t mind 1-1 gearing but I think you are right about the people who would be in the market for something like this. I wouldn’t buy it - but I could see recommending it to the right person.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

While true you get more used for the money the cost is time. Depending on where you live the used market could just suck. You could find a great bike but you have too hope that things like size and is it the kind of bike you actually want line up. For some that would have a bike sooner than later buying new is a viable option.

[@TimFitzwater]

@@PathLessPedaledTV Makes sense.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Here in Missoula it’s a mix of crappy department store bikes or size L mountain bikes. Nothing I’d ride.

[@TimFitzwater]

@@PathLessPedaledTV I'm probably more spoiled in Northeast Ohio - and with lots of bike shop friends.....

[@DanielLenaghan]

And 1k even for both wheelsets. Can't lose. This one is a massive winner

[@pistonburnt]

I would love to hear what you think about the poseidon x ambition.

[@CaseyStrouse]

Looks like it would be a decent ECR alternative for people on a budget.

[@raysmith9324]

Thanks for the channel, just realized how many videos Ive watched and enjoyed the last couple months. Ive been slowly recovering from what was supposed to be a minor surgery since May 20th. Still not back in the saddle and it will likely be a couple more months. I found your channel researching the Kona Rove. Have been lusting over it for a couple years and hoping to get this seasons all steel version the “DL”. Thinking steel fork as my wife and I do a lot of adventure travel and in my experience bikes get hurt the most in the back of trucks and on racks etc. Shes lusting after the Crust Bombora hopefully back in stock Nov. Any thoughts on either bikes are more than welcome. Thanks again for the great videos and keep up the good work!

[@kaseycarpenter73]

the ease of repairability in virtually any place on the planet was what sold me on the steel aspect of this bike. Having spent time in Central America, I can tell you that getting someone who knows how to weld aluminum (or has the equipment to let you do it yourself) is about 2000:1 versus those with a simple steel welding rig -it might not be the prettiest welds, but they make for great "bike scars" / stories!

[@raysmith9324]

Thats exactly where they’ll be. A season or two in the Colorado Mountains before a season or two in the Mexican Riviera, Belize for sure than who knows.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

@@raysmith9324 Belize is totally worth it - lived there for a couple of years in the wild early 90s - pre-McAfee, but still insane, beautiful, frustrating, and fun.

[@outbackwack368]

I wonder what the frame alone weighs? Worth $700 and then throw $2000 in upgrades? How much would all of the carbon bits and lighter mechanics shave off? For $700 that looks like a steel (pun intended) for someone that lives in Illinois, Ohio or Florida :-)

[@pauldc779]

I think a 2x would be a useable upgrade

[@emceeaye]

Thank you for this review. I accessed it from the review of this bike on BikeRide site. For me comfort is the issue as I'm 48 yo and I am not as flexible as I once was. I get sore lower back, arms and shoulders, and knees from a setup that isn't optimised for comfort. I'm looking to get a hybrid bike that will last for a long time and be as comfortable as possible, so I want to make sure to get the correct frame size and then implement adjustments if necessary to dial in: move the saddle backward for a slacker angle; move back the saddle (more setback); and lengthen the stem. But which frame size makes more sense, 60 cm or 61cm? I'm using this bike for mostly asphalt road riding up and down hills for about 10 mile rides, but also for riding on mostly firmly packed fire-roads/gravel from time to time. If I want a hybrid bike for this, does it make more sense to buy the frame first and add the components one by one separately, or buy a complete bike to begin with and then switch out components afterwards. My budget is $3k-4k. Will it be more expensive to get frame and components separately or to get the complete bike first and make adjustments (switching out components) afterwards? If getting the whole bike first makes most sense, what about getting the State bicycle Co. 4130 All-road and then switching out the components that are entry-level to high-end ones (e.g., lower gearing system, high-end brakes, smaller high-end crank size if necessary, stem that accommodates comfort the most, new wheels that aren't too fat, but are fatter and larger diameter that it comes with, add a rear-rack for child bike seat for my 2-year old daughter). Hopefully switching out /upgrading the components (lower gearing, upgrade brakes, getting tires that are for mostly pavement (WTB Horizon, or smaller 650B tire with more file tread) will lower the weight from 29 lbs. I'd use it mostly on pavement. If getting the frame first, what are some really good ones to get can accommodate high-end components well? Thank you, Lee

[@MCGPeaches]

wow that toe overlap!

[@hermittranslator]

Interesting to see the Sensah SRX chinese gravel groupset on a complete bike

[@garyives1218]

Mentioning this now because I just now saw it. You folks might get a laugh too. Oveja Negra's video for their Bootlegger bag on their page is hillarious!!! Oh, and having ample fork eyelets this All-Road would accept one or two :)

[@po311737]

this is the best budget bike for bikepacking

[@dpell3543]

I do like this bike

[@roblootens2994]

Great review! Due to Parkinsons moved to an area with tons of gravel. I always rode mtb's. So I'm trying to decide on a gravel bike. A friend loaned me a salsa journeyman 650b. Which I do like on paved or buff gravel but it's really chattery on rough gravel. So I am considering one of these or ?? Open to other steel on a budget framesets?? Opinions ideas welcome. Thanks!!

[@tomvaughan2198]

Nuts to me that built gravel bikes don't ship with lower gearing. A 1x that gives you slightly below a 1:1 climbing gear is better than the 50/34 that you see elsewhere, but only just. These are often heavier bikes, to be ridden off road and loaded, and a 1x gives you so much scope for a lower gear, but manufacturers don't do it. I guess they don't want to alienate those people who care about losing top end, but spoiler, they aren't buying this bike.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

That is true. At this price point I would err on the lower than higher side of gearing.

[@tomvaughan2198]

@@PathLessPedaledTV i'm now just realising you have loads of videos saying this exact thing - sorry for preaching to the choir!

[@tommyschu4241]

shifters are rebranded sensah quantum

[@mancello]

Definitely would swap chainring with a 38 tooth.

[@brosettastone7520]

can you review the Fuji Jari 2.5? its also a sub $1000 steel gravel bike

[@peterweikel7123]

So glad I dont do bike reviews. I think it would make it impossible to pick a favorite. I typically ride a road touring bike but I havent found many bikes I dont like. I am looking into my first 650b ride just for something different but As long as it gets me to the fishing stream and the local micro brewery I am golden

[@drqazlop]

Do you always weigh your reviewed bikes? If so, are those numbers available anywhere? I'm currently shopping for an affordable gravel/light touring bike and would love to get any idea of some lighter weight options :)

[@Eric-Red]

Enjoyed the review as always. Would you say this is similar to the All City GM? But at a better price point?

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Yeah. Less refined GM.

[@liveorgandonor]

Great review! Do you happen to have any information on the labor practices for manufacturing these, and how that might compare to other bike brands? I certainly love the idea of a bike that's this accessible, I'm just curious if reaching that goal requires any sacrifices in that area or not. Thanks!

[@rickhurst9058]

Gravel bike gearing in general is a bugbear of mine - people draw parallels between Gravel Bikes and 1990's rigid mountain bikes, but in the 90's we had the gear ratios nailed with 3x allowing a seriously low granny gear for winching up any gradient, and a respectable top gear for the long downhills. With 1 x you have to compromise one of those, but it seems skewed towards road gearing, which is surprising on a burly bike like this clearly intended for off-road hills loaded with gear!

[@Niidea1986]

I am not sure about those shifters, their design is similar to Sram, just with lower class materials. And Sram"s design sacrifices durability for lighter weight already; which does not give me any good feeling.

[@flingtoad]

How does it compare to the Marin Nicasio+? Seems like both bikes are in the same niche.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Similar. The Nicasio is better geared and has a little more snap to it.

[@TimothyJamesOng]

@@PathLessPedaledTV Would you say the State bike is more suited for commuting than the Nicasio+?

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

Timothy James Ong no. Both are par for commuting.

[@carolinewalton6702]

Super curious about how this bike compares with the Breezer radar expert??

[@andrewwilliams762]

That is my kind of bike! I'll have to see if it comes in aluminum. I've gotten use to aluminum.

[@kaseycarpenter73]

It doesn't but, I passed on an aluminum frame for this one and have no regerts!

[@DonOblivious]

State is going to be releasing an alu bike that's similar but with a bit sportier geometry. They'll also be selling carbon forks for them.

[@andrewwilliams762]

@@DonOblivious , thank you for the heads up! Sounds good.

[@brianasselta9237]

Hey. Great vid. Looking forward to the poseidon review. I have a motobecane omni strada I got for 799 feom bike island. I had to add a crankset which I already had ( Shimano 105 with a 46/ 30 absolute black chainring setup) it came with uletegra 8000 front and rear shifters I added shimano 105 r7000 shifters and a toseek carbon fiber mt bike fork weighing 485 grams. I added a ztto 11 - 36 super light cassette ( 228 grams) and it came with wtb 700x 40 nano tires and I run it tubeless. Oh I added spyre mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. Ok so end of the day. About 1500 spent. Its an aluminium frame and after all my mod b.s. I got it down to 23 lbs. Not bad. Rides great and I love it. Ok sk long story to ask you what are your opinions of any of the motobecane stuff I know it comes with the stigma of an online bike order from the dreaded bikes direct but i got the american version through bike island. Have you ridden any of the 853 gravel or cyclcross motobecanes and might you consider doing a review of one. Sorry for the long winded spiel. Love the channel.

[@carlosribeiro4402]

Hey, mate great review thanks! I was thinking to get two frames of this model for long touring adventures, price is good if we compare with others. in the market. I want to build these bikes with some components I have and also buy other ones. Any suggestions? Do you think that this bike with some different components will still be a good option for long trips let says a 400km week trip with all the proper equipment including tent, food, etc? Cheers

[@davec6087]

Glad to see some reasonably priced bikes reviewed. A 4130 steel frame is easily produced and now with 1x drivetrains which mean lower cost bill of materials in build, and less labor due to quicker assembly, even with mech. disc brakes, which actually are easier and quicker to set up than canti's or linear pull brakes, there is no reason a person wanting a durable, reasonable weight and upgradeable bike should have to spend more than $1k.This bike could be compared in quality to a mid to upper end mass produced steel hardtail mtb's from the late 80's, from the mainstream manufacturers of the time, as far as quality and manufacturing cost, adjusted for inflation. Fast forward and we have those bikes resurrected with drop bars, and more road like geometry and bigger wheels. Makes total sense and good for the bike industry. My 2016 Novara Mazama has been an awesome ride, very reminiscent of my 89 Bianchi Volpe which had similar geometry. Long live steel and sensible bikes.

[@joeumbrell8774]

It looks like these have been sold out for quite some time. How is the drivetrain holding up (for those here who have one)? I've read mixed things on the Sensah group set. I was considering one of these when I was bike shopping but the lack of availability turned me away and I went with a Civilderness from Bildabike (Russ you should check one of these out and review one!)

[@noonster55]

Too bad you can't find one anywhere. I wanted to get this for my son... No luck...

[@marcusjslee]

If you're from the UK and were hoping for a sub £1000 gravel bike from State, I'm afraid you're out of luck. I e-mailed them a few weeks ago and the response was... "...Unfortunately we do not expect to offer this bicycle to our overseas riders at this time, I do apologize..."

[@solsonscherman2029]

If you think you have trouble getting this kind of bike, you can't even imagine here in Costa Rica. Marin Nicasio + might be the closest option.

[@bonzobanana1]

Lots of cheaper options in the UK with better components but an aluminium frame not steel. There is the Octane One Kode ADV from Wiggle which seems pretty good and both the drivetrain and brakes on the All Road don't look that great. I've seen reports of the Sensai stuff failing very quickly and the disc brakes look basic quality. I personally don't think $799 is that great for the bike although I realise with covid pricing maybe I'm out of touch. Looks more like a $599 bike to me. Halfords do a couple of voodoo models which look better to me at lower prices although accept there are spec differences that may be critical to some buyers especially the generous mounting points on the All Road.

[@James.Gornell]

New shoes Russ?

[@_kowono]

Perfect commuter. My gravel bike is the perfect bike to ride around the city, but I'm too precious about it to leave it outside the grocery store.

[@matiasmoreno24]

I’m considering purchasing one of these. Is it just me or does the bike you’re on seem a little bit too small for you? I’m in between sizes. I’m 5’ 10” with a 32 inseam

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

It’s not small I have a 29in inseam.

[@matiasmoreno24]

I should probably go with a size medium. Thank you for a quick response and a very thorough review!

[@leoblue74]

@@matiasmoreno24 Did you end up buying medium size? How is it? I am on the same page and wondering which size will fit me better.

[@matiasmoreno24]

Yes, I bought the medium. I installed a 90mm stem instead of the 65-70mm stem that came on it. It fits me really well.

[@joshportelli]

​@@PathLessPedaledTV In the video frame says 51, and website calls that a Medium, not small. Did they change thier size naming? I am 5'5" with a 28 inseam and it says i should get XS (43).

[@raelovejoy]

I have one and put a Sunrace CSMX80 11-50 11sp cassette on it with the stock rear derailleur (set to high) and it shifts fine. Looks a little stretched but nothing crazy. I’m just trying to figure out what I can replace the 42t chainring with, ideally with a sub-34t (though any lower and I’ll need to replace the whole crankset because of the limitations of 110 BCD. I have extra 32t sram cranks and bottom bracket from my old Surly Krampus (which was stolen sadly) but it’s too wide (unless maybe I add spacers?) Ultimately my goal is to have my granny gear inches under 19 or 20. Anyone have any suggestions?

[@awidiarto]

Thanks for this. I am buying the sunrace csmx80 11-50T 11 speed cassette as we speak per your comment :) I also replaced the crankset with 34T wolf tooth...it is awesome for the climb but will be looking forward after i got the 11-50T.

[@GasmanA]

I have a Gorilla Monsoon that was built up from the frame so only the brakes are OEM. I have a 32 crank with the 9-46 eThirteen cassette for 19-98 gear inches. If spent a lot of time investigating trying to get 17-120. Two things you need to look at are chain line and wrap. The rear derailure can only handle so much chain and the chain line could be an issue. I know the 1x is all in fashion but look at a 2x it will run much better. If you dont care about how well it shifts, I have a 28t on the 9-46 and that gets me to just over 16 gear inches on a granny. The Gorilla Monsoon frame handles it fine with a SRAM Rival rear mech.

[@61tree_VR_Gliding]

Any experience with the Russian made Format 5221 27.5" 2020 (sold by the manufacturer on ebay) for $825 including free world wide shipping?

[@ForeverDownByLaw]

For a little more money, the Masi Giramondo seems like a better value re: better gearing and better quality components. State seems to have been heavily influenced by the Masi, I would be interested how the geometry compares, it seems very close. I have the Masi and it is an exceptional bike.

[@alexandercontino6137]

I was hoping to hear a bit more on your opinions on the State All Road 4130, and specifically your thoughts on the frameset and tubing. I am planning to build one up from the frame. I have already determined that the geo is pretty close to what I am looking for, but I had some concerns about the quality of the steel frame. Your review seemed to delve more into the components and the bike as a complete (which seemed appropriate given the value of the bike as a complete). What are your thoughts on the frame and ride quality? While it's quite a bit more "high end" the Ritchey Outback seems to have similar geometry. How do the two frames compare? How much difference does the fancy tubing make? I realize it may be difficult to separate the frames from the components when talking about two wildly different price points. FYI I am planning to put a nice carbon fork and some mid to high end components on the State. Any feedback or opinions would be greatly appreciated.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

It's heavy and not the liveliest tubing. It'll get the job done but don't expect heaven on earth for this price. I can't really comment on long term durability since the test period was a few weeks, but generally speaking it'll take a lot to break a steel bike. The Ritchey is in a different league and has a noticeable spring to it for me.

[@alexandercontino6137]

@@PathLessPedaledTV I certainly expect the Ritchey frame to be quite a bit nicer as they are known for being some of the liveliest and most compliant steel around. Even though Surly doesn't really make a similar bike to the All Road, how would you compare the quality of the All Road's 4130 chromoly to that of a Surly (which is also 4130)? Sorry to keep pestering you about this, I'm just trying to understand this frame's quality and feel relative to well known bike brands. There isn't much to go on with the internet reviews, and all of the reviews that are out there are suspiciously positive.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

@@alexandercontino6137 it's probably par and if there is a difference not noticeable at this price point.

[@jamesl.7657]

can i put 27.5 x 2.6 inch wide tires in FORK?

[@peppermintp2610]

Hmmm....intrigued... steel...650b..

[@dazzasp3]

Nice 👍

[@jeancanaday9684]

Quick change hubs?

[@MaverickTube]

Hey great review, would love to know individual weight for some of the components ! It would help in figuring out upgradability on lower end rigs =) wheels are likely a big chunk of that 28lbs.

[@nicksaintz8637]

You can find those on state’s website, but I’m not sure how accurate the numbers are.

[@MaverickTube]

@Joe F Thank you!

[@T_track]

I am just waiting to see which one russ recommends for commuter between this state or posiden. Debating between it.

[@Korina42]

Steel is real, bruh.

[@Mentalgraveltrip]

What is the brand of blue pedals?