Is 1x the FUTURE of Road Bikes?

This is the brand new Vielo R+1 and not only does it look unlike any other road bike on the market right now, it's also designed entirely around a 1x drivetrain. But can 1x really work on the road or is it too compromised?
Vielo website bit.ly/3ArtCxg
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[@sardendibs]

Elegant simplicity. I wish more brands made bikes styled like this - the entire frame just a single colour and no silly/garish ornamentation, allowing the beauty of the shape and engineering to stand out like a sculpture.

[@bradsanders6954]

Look at a new Canyon roadbike if you dont want garishness. Very clean.

[@joonlee920]

That seat stay...a little off if you ask me...

[@popcornsamurai]

Very well put

[@DilbertMuc]

@@joonlee920 Looks like a carbon suspension to me.

[@strickostricko]

Stylish? That seat-stay! 😖

[@timjacob991]

Excellent job, David. I really enjoy all of your reviews

[@targaW3007]

I use 1x12 at my TREK Madone SLR and also 1x11 at my gravel bike, and I just love it.

[@Hunttherider]

Thanks David, nice review. As a long standing proponent of 1x for road bikes I’ve been waiting for your review of the R+1, and great to see it fitted out with the AXS XPLR components. Can you add any comments about the ride and feel on the climbs as well as the weight of this build? Thanks.

[@maxlloyd3740]

I have been using 1 X for the past few months on my Cervelo Caledonia. Done mainly commuting so far with the odd sportif and group ride so far. Works great and with SRAM 12 speed gaps are closer and not as noticible. Running a 46 t ring and a 10-36 cassette. Was thinking more hilly rides eg Peaks and Wales I might go back to a 2x for a lower gear. So far it's working well. I have a 10-44 cassette and Rival Explr mech for a future gravel project waiting in the wings but thinking that might make a good road set up also. Hmmm 🤔

[@TurnbuckleTrivia]

Great review David.

[@user-pj7iy6es3d]

Timely video Dave. I have just dropped a deposit at my local Vielo dealer, and your vid confirms I have made a good decision! Can’t wait!

[@dirkbeauboir8521]

I have been using 1x on both my gravel and my road bike for a couple years now. Tackled the Tourmalet last year with my road setup and didnt miss a front derailleur at all. For those with concerns regarding range and or cadence jumps, i recommend a SRAM mullet setup with XX1 derailleur in the back pared with a Rotor 11-39 cassette. This cassette offers 1 tooth jumps from 11 to 15, then 2-teeth to 21 before it spaces out more. Perfectly tight jumps when you need them with really good range. Running 40 ring when in the high mountains, or 44 on flatter roads . Couldnt be happier.

[@itstheterranaut]

I ran a 1x rig on my road bike for about 5 years, and it was good: less faff, fewer parts, lighter, possibly a better chainline. I still do on my gravel bike. But.....I was definitely slower overall on flat sections. If the situation is right, being able to switch up into a larger chainring and grind away in a lower cadence gave me about 10% add'l speed. Its possibly just me, and certainly front chainring choice can assist in overcoming this, but my latest road rig is back to 2x up front.

[@grahambowes756]

I’ve been using a BMC Roadmachine X as my winter bike. A 1x setup which has been great and easy to maintain manly on the road and light trails. Though on group rides, with a 40 front mech, I’m probably working a bit harder to keep up. I enjoy it, but am looking forward to being on the 2x when the weather warms up. I know know I’m lucky to have a choice.

[@pipolchamp8205]

as a 1x mountain biker, i understand why roadie pros hate 1x for efficiency reasons, the chain line (essentially crossed on the smallest and biggest cog) is OK for off-road climbs and descents since you're using your upper body more on techy stuff so it's not a big factor. but if you're pedaling constantly for 150-200kms on multiple days like in a COMPETITIVE road race, that chain line will cost you. IMO if you're a roadie and just biking for fun and leisure or on a strictly hillclimb competition, get the 1x

[@branislavtrninic4505]

There are so many bikes to choose from that distinction might play big role in the future. The small ànd independent workshops are gaining momentum and I like that.

[@jitterspec]

Yes. A Renaissance of new designs with 1x. The bikes are approaching the aesthetics of fixies but more practical. I really like this bike but heard the prices.....

[@branislavtrninic4505]

Oh the prices, I don't know really, to me it's a daylight robbery

[@pip119]

For comparing 1 and 2-by surely it would be helpful to discuss gear ratios or at least mention teeth numbers for the bike shown?

[@SILVERSNOWMAN72]

Agreed Pip, I use a 1x and 2x bikes and its all about 'gearing' and the type of roads you are riding on (hilly or flat).

[@janeblogs324]

Chuck them in a gear calculator. You'll find that only 1 gear has a unique ratio + your big/small offering just a 5-8kph more top speed.

[@DeanPattrick]

Jane the gear inches may be close but if you lose 11/12 gears you will miss some gears and the jumps between them must be bigger. If you are a weaker cyclist then I wouldn’t recommend a x1.

[@fantscher]

@@DeanPattrick almost half the gears in a 2x are duplicates. A 2x11 only has 14 individual gears. The difference in jumps is in the low gears where it has little impact on how it feels. I won't go back and I'm in the mountains.

[@DeanPattrick]

@@fantscher fair point, but for a new rider I would suggest more gears are better to find the best cadence. A more experienced rider, sure they can ride around in a one-by all day and night.

[@bd7190]

Great video thanks. I agree, one by is the future

[@owenanstey436]

Like you I am a 1 x convert after buying a Merida mission 8000 CX 11 speed sram force mechanical with hydraulic discs. I use this bike in dodgy weather and love it's relaxed handling. It seems to glued to the road. Admittedly it could do with an extra gear as it is a bit limited both up and down hills. I have however made do with what's there but the next bike will have Campag Ekar and relaxed frame geometry. I am 73 and ride the hills around Melbourne on The Great Dividing Range. Just taking the front chainring changes out of equation makes life so much easier, and I would encourage others to embrace this technology, Regards o

[@ccamire]

As long as you have 11x36 in the back. I live in Spain and we have hills. Love the review

[@paulcallaway71]

As a cycling enthusiast, I have a 1x11 on my gravel bike that I road ride often and I very, very rarely feel the need for more top end. And if I ever get to the point that I need a bit more top end I can always swap in a chainring with an extra tooth or two.

[@Countrystock]

Everytime I watched a R+1 vlog I want one even more 😍

[@iamlyam79]

I run 1X GRX on my Litespeed Watia with two wheel sets. For both road and gravel I have a 38T up front but for road a 9-39 cassette from e*thirteen. For gravel, a 10-42 from SRAM. This set up works brilliantly for me. Cheers!

[@Ferrichrome]

I’m thinking of getting the same bike. It just looks so much cleaner with the 1x, and the titanium is so nice. Do you still like the bike?

[@DavisStraubOz]

I have previously upgraded my Giant TCR C1 to 1 by, 34 tooth chain ring. I much earlier put on flat bars and have a XTR 11 speed derailleur on a 10x46 cassette. Works great for me.

[@henrikwille8135]

I have been running 1X on my road bike for two Years, I live in the Copenhagen Denmark, simply couldn’t understand why I should have 2X setup when the highest hill in a 50K radius is 50m high. I run 48 front and 11-29, I actually feel that I’m using the gear better with 1X, and if You find a cassette with the right spread, most of the time the chain runs in a straighter line, and also, I save the wight of one ring a shifter and a cable

[@chrissinclair6086]

I may move to Denmark. In a short 16KM local loop, I'll hit at least 300M.

[@bradsanders6954]

We dont all live where its flat. I live at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains,climbing is life..fast downhills are done routinely.

[@JohnLumapaskeith]

I started off with a 1 x and converted to a 2x setup. I loved both.

[@stevesnailfish]

I've got 5 bikes with a 1x drivetrain and 3 of them I converted myself. I find it easier for my own riding, which is mostly off-road on MTB's, CX and gravel bikes. I still ride an old Specialized rim brake road bike which remains as a 2x system and works great, but I have thought about turning it 1x with a 42t chainring and wider range cassette but, as it's 12 years old, is it worth it.....? It's only an old Claris 8 speed and the jumps on the cassette I already have in the toolbox could be a bit much.....I like tinkering with me bikes so you never know. I just like the clean look of 1x and the simplicity of only a rear shifter.....Bearing in mind I'm an old git and am slow it's good for me. Good video yet again.....Bloody good channel.....and a very nice looking bike but alas, it's way out of my price range.

[@truthseeker8483]

I'm an old git too and I find 1X is perfect with plenty of gears in a range I actually use and downhill I freewheel 😀

[@gaza4543]

I have a mason definition 2 running 1x11 (soon 12 with the ratio kit) with a 44t and 11-32. Never needed more at either end, hills aren't long enough to spin out on (maybe one) and certainly not steep enough. Im happy

[@waynosfotos]

Yes 1 by works and manufacturers make them, but for fully road they are just sub standard to 2 by. Noisey, more cross chaining, and limited gears or cog jumps. They need special front rings and need clutches. Yes you remove a front mech, but for road, front mechs are now pretty dam good.

[@waynosfotos]

What is with the kink in the chainstays? That is the most stupid design, it weakens the member and then requires more material and strength at that point wear the kink is. Just dumb for a road bike. 🙄 What were velo thinking?

[@robertandrews3055]

I find 1X LESS noisy than 2X. With the new "narrow wide" chainrings, cross-chaining isn't an issue. Most all of my chain drops occur with the front derailleur, so 1X eliminates that. I also purchased a $69 chain keeper to ensure chain drops are a thing of the past. Just my two cents.

[@hjshoon5244]

Refreshing to watch a bike review that doesn’t talk about compliance, aero claims, stiffness or even the frameset weight. 1x definitely works, at least for me. Been riding 1x for more than 3 years, previously on my Scott foil and then my Madone SLR with 44T, 10-30T. No roads too steep in Singapore that I can’t ride on so far

[@lennymclean.]

I converted a 20y old 3 X 8 speed Racer (weird as it's deffo not a tourer) to a 1 X 8 speed by removing the front derailleur, using a 1 X crankset with a 110bcd and mounting a 48t chainring to the inner position. The 8 speed cassette I use is a 11-32t with a very cheap shifter as converted it to a flat bar and it's light fast and looks cool af Edit: it works perfectly, it has enough range in the gears to get up the steepest hill in my city and its really light too. Turns heads. I use it as my primary road bike and I go on long rides with other riders who have carbon bikes equipped with ultegra di2 gears and I have no problems keeping up.

[@SteveBrill]

Great review as usual David. I’m a new convert to 1x as a I’ve been using my 2022 Trek Checkpoint SL6 eTap, with Zipp 303s wheels and 30mm Goodyear F1 Eagle tyres on the road. I love it and think it’s all the bike I need, having the option to swap out the wheels for 40mm gravel tyres as well.

[@DilbertMuc]

Yeah... until to hit the first climbs in the Alps. Then the swearing begins. 1x only works in a controlled scenario: either flat lands or mountains, but not both. Just does not work. Or you carry a second chain ring and tools with you.

[@SteveBrill]

@@DilbertMuc sadly I’m not going to be riding in the Alps anytime soon.

[@DilbertMuc]

@@SteveBrill If you know your hills, then 1x might be good. I have 60km flat terrain until reaching the Alps and then it goes straight up. Even bought a roadbike with triple (!) chainrings and customized it with a 24(!) chainring. Overkill for flats but very useful on 20% climbs. :)

[@lazarosnikolaidis256]

Dear David, thank you so much for your nice reviews and presentations. I have a limit of 15 subscriptions and I must say you earn a place in 'my best' list. I have viewed all your videos and I am v. pleased. Sometimes I comeback and replay some of them. Now regarding Vielo's R+1 it's a super-fresh attempt with unique design. Put already on my list. Keep up the good work David! Greetings from Greece.

[@jamesgeorge8915]

I must admit that is a beautiful looking bike

[@kyqx]

I've been 1X ony since 2015. My fleet of Road/Gravel/Urban/Mountain/Single Speed all so equipped. I don't win any races but I don't enter any either.

[@truthseeker8483]

I converted my ancient 14 speed to 7 speed and I love it. The front derailleur is such a crude device that is annoying to use

[@fkrr5]

My front shifter broke, as been running a 1x11 and it's not bad. I live in the flat mid west so I don't contend with hills and it's really nice to have to tune the FD

[@srcphonemail]

I have a 3T Strada and have never been in a situation where I felt I needed more gears. Building a Time Machine in the summer which will also be 1x.

[@robertandrews3055]

Exactly. While there's certainly nothing "wrong" with 2X drivetrains, I dare say 99 out of 100 roadies would ride just as strong if not stronger on a 1X.

[@markp353]

What was the cassette & chainring sizes on your test bike? How did you find the gap between gears when on the flat and when climbing?

[@imlachg1]

I'm dead set on a 1x12 for my next bike. Vielo R+1 or Tarmac SL7 1x12 etap?

[@mickchaganis6607]

I'm just in the process of converting my Eddy Merckx San Remo from 2x11 50/34 11/28 mechanical Sram Rival F/R derailleurs with Sensah shifters to Sensah 12 speed mechanical shifters with Sensah RD, 46 N/W chain wheel with 11/34 rear. After front mech came loose, I could just about get up all the hills around here so decide to try 1 by. Might spin out a bit downhill but I need cadence practice anyway! I am a fan of Sensah and in the carbon option they look amazing 😁 I have a spare 50 tooth, do you think maybe cut my chain correct size for a 48, would that be ok so I can swap chain wheels if I'm doing a long flat ride? Just found you so going to look through your vids. Brilliant channel 😁

[@davidarthur]

Welcome to the channel 👍

[@steveco1800]

I find 44t with 11-42 GRX works well with 32c slicks on the gravel bike for winter road riding, but 2x is definitely better for the summer road bike. There's a bit more friction in the larger cogs and the spacing is more noticeable when pushing the pace.

[@brianwright9514]

I'm on the fence myself. I've read other reviewers that said the same thing... In a fast group ride, when you're trying to stay in the draft, the ratio jumps with 1x12 are a little too wide. I know eventually 1x will overtake 2x even for road, but I'm curious when that'll happen. Is 1x13 enough? Do we need 14 speed? Hard to say

[@stanleyling6116]

Good looking bike!

[@metubenoggin07]

Love my one and only 1X, at LEAST as much as any of my 2Xs! No controversy here.

[@tomasberka2124]

David, what size is the chainring on the bike, please...? You mentioned 10-44 cassette... Just wanna know the gear ratios. Thanks, Tomas

[@robertandrews3055]

I recently converted to a 1X because of a left wrist injury that made shifting to the big ring painful (Sram 10 speed mechanical). Frankly, I don't think I'll ever convert it back to a 2X. I'm not terribly "cadence sensitive" so 10 speeds works fine for me. Let's face it, with my 50x34 2X I had 5 gears that were duplicates or near duplicates anyway. Sure, the 1X has somewhat larger jumps between gears, but the ease and quickness of the one click up or down is worth the trade off for me. One thing I don't hear touted much with 1X drivetrains is how quiet and smooth they are - - similar in a way to electronic shifting. To anyone who "swears" they'll never convert to 1X, I would urge you to test ride a 1X bike - - I'm willing to bet you'll be shocked.

[@truthseeker8483]

No chain rub.....Fast changes....and that beautiful sound of the front mech hitting the bottom of the trash can.....😀

[@mohongzhi]

And 1X is totally different than you keep yourself on any front ring without changing. It's just so different. I don't really know why but it's just much quite

[@martinkroutil]

As you said in the begining. There is no way in hell i will be using 1by, but i ride in mountains so easy decision for me. I love look of that frame in cobination with Zipps 303s, look awesome.

[@eo1830]

303 Firecrest

[@pierrec8563]

I notice the thin chainstays as we can find on the Cannondale Supersix 2016 or the Elves Vanyar.

[@funkyfearon1]

Another great review. Like the bike but not the colour. I’m still on the fence regarding 1x as I live in Bristol so we’re surrounded by the mendips, Cotswolds and Wales and not sure if it would give the range of gears needed. I have a friend with a 3t strada 11 speed who has to change his cassette (and chain) if we ride in Majorca, the alps or even the Peak District when I don’t have to.

[@davidleonard3716]

Interesting concept like the bike.

[@CristoffelBonorand]

I like everything about this bike, except the seatstays. Not to say that I find them ugly, but they’re a bit off. But you’re right, it is a distinct shape for sure, with straight seatstays or a less pronounced drop the frame would look like countless contenders. Still an intriguing option, I’ll keep an eye on Vielo!

[@truthseeker8483]

They may look odd but they are no doubt one reason the bike rides so well

[@DilbertMuc]

Aero. And I think they perform as a carbon rear suspension somehow...

[@DanBirasi]

I live in a relativ flat area and I never use the small chainring on my DI2. On my gravel bike I have a SRAM 12 gear and it is absolutely fine for me. I barely notice any difference in the jumps between the gear. Just my 2 cents.

[@hydaali6244]

What size chainring do you have on your gravel bike?

[@bradsanders6954]

We do these gravel rides,with 20% grades at times...............every guy on a 1X on the last ride ended up pushing. ...there's no low gear to go to. Its not there. If you put a small enough chainring on then you have no top speed gearing........A truly strong rider doesnt need a low gear they just grind up. Modern 2X works SO well,especially Di2.

[@DanBirasi]

@@hydaali6244 I have a 40t chainring and a 10-44 cassette. (It is the Canyon Grizl Suspension E-Tap version). My Roadbike is a Simplon Kiaro Disc DI2 with 50-34t and an 11-34 cassette. I only use the small chainring to check if the DI2 needs a charge (because the front derailleur stops working first ;)

[@DanBirasi]

@@bradsanders6954 My (2by) DI2 gives me only 1-1 with a 34 chainring and the biggest cog also 34 while my SRAM one by gives me easier 0,9 (40-44). I never had a problem with the gears. The few occasions I ever had to push, the traction was the problem. So a smaller chainring would not have helped me there. And to be honest, when riding even easier than 0,9 ratio - pushing is probably faster anyway. But to each their own.

[@truthseeker8483]

@@bradsanders6954 I freewheel downhill so for me there is no compromise having 1X

[@jaredstrauss617]

I have SRAM AXS with 48/35 up front and a 10/33 cassette and I only use the small ring on large climbs. For the most rides near me I either don’t use the small ring or shift once up front

[@nick.j2772]

To get the range I want from a 1x it would need to have a 9-44 cassette with 44t chainring or 10-46 to 46t CR

[@jheichelbech]

I'll never give up my dura-ace triple

[@keithcottongim7930]

I'm fine with 1X. I think where it starts being an issue is on fast road group rides when other riders are on 2X. I enjoy both. A long solo ride I would chose 1X. A fast group ride or doing a specific workout I would ride 2X. We're all different, and we have a choice!

[@gaza4543]

Personally think it’s the other way round don’t know many riders spinning out round here at 35mph on the flat/rolling terrain most run out of skill on the down hills. Climbing on the other hand, sustained climbs can be a bother

[@lennymclean.]

I built myself a 1 X 8 speed roadbike for my commuter bike. 8 speed because I don't like expensive components If you've got a normal type derailleur, you can probably accommodate up to a 34t cog for your easiest gear. But what size chain ring for a one by? The less fit / heavier / less efficient you are / the steeper the hills in your area, the less teeth you want on your chainring... If you live in the Scottish Highlands, 1 X is a daft idea. Stick with a compact double or a triple probably. Also, in ditching a second chainring, you are basically ditching either your easiest or your fastest gears, so let's say you are looking for as much range as possible and therefore are planning on getting a 11-34 cassette, your chainring size is now what matters in determining the easiness or fastness of this range. My advice would be: London 52t Edinburgh 42t Cardiff 50t Dublin 46t Sheffield 44t Skegness 48t I like 48 X 11-32 best. I'm a fit skinny hill climber of a rider, not a sprinter. Works beautifully for my day to day commuter and all purpose shopping and picnic by the river type bike. 8 speed is your best bet. Forget all the idiots talking about bug jumps between gears - the pros were raving about how great 8 speed was about 5 minutes ago, so we know they're all spoilt these days and are full of shizzli-1

[@davidarthur]

Amazing to think 8 speed used to be cutting-edge once upon a time. Do you think people protested at its introduction saying 7 speed was all you needed?

[@lennymclean.]

@@davidarthur Definaltely some would have who had just bought new 14 speed road bikes the year before, feeling all left out & that. There's this woman owns and runs a 2nd hand only bike shop, all weathers, big coat etc and she says she only really likes dealing with 5 and 6 speeds on the back and won't go near those new cartridge bearing headsets. She's all about the threaded steerer, she says. Maybe that was a euphamism? Salt of the earth through, massive hands and arms. And I'll tell you summat for nowt David Arthur: my 1 X 8 speed **is** cutting edge. Says Aero Blade on it as proof.

[@RAG0407]

Imagine if the 1x was paired with a classified hub and wheel. Expensive but maybe the future.

[@lucaniedermayer906]

Rose has a bike like this to offer for 5k€

[@robertcatuara5118]

What's the gear ratios? I live below Mt.Baldy and want a 1 to 1 option.

[@victorrodriguez2806]

Thank you David for the honest disclaimer. I didn't need to watch another video with a topic I have no interest in.

[@heuer73]

I use 1x8 Shimano Claris on my commute road bike and I love it. Together with a gatorskin tires is a workhorse machine.

[@dizhamrl2502]

how many chainring and sprocket u have? i want to make 1x9 for my commute to but i need some speed to so im confuse what type system do i need

[@heuer73]

@@dizhamrl2502 I use a 42 chainring alongside with a 11x34 cassette. That gives me a gear ratio between 33" and 101"

[@dizhamrl2502]

@@heuer73 ty man, appreciate it maybe i should go 11-36t alivio with 42t chainring hope ot works

[@mohongzhi]

I have 7 bikes, now only my old trek madone 7 still in 2X, all others are now 1X system, I convert them all by myself, and some of them I built them 1x from the begining. I am thinking to keep the only madone 2X in 2X for long climb, but I can say the only reason it's still in 2bike because it's in sram red Etap, and I really don't think I can sell this front derailleur any money.

[@tomaldous5641]

Not for me on the road, the gaps do my head in, I never felt that I was in the right gear. Maybe when we get to 1x14 I'll reconsider. 1x is the way to go off road though.

[@The2808erik]

Too much top end. I live in a very mountainous region I don't need more than 46-11, at that point I stop pedaling anyways. 46 in the front and 46 in the back is optimal for me.

[@tomaldous5641]

@@The2808erikHorses for courses. There's some long shallow descents where I live where I can spin out 52/11. I also need the small gaps between gears when crit racing.

[@The2808erik]

@@tomaldous5641 then get 52 in the front and 50 in the back you just need to get used to preadjusting your cadence before shifting. Or even less bigger gears in the back if it's just a bunch of long flat hills. Also in most races Downhill does not count anyways due to safety.

[@tomaldous5641]

@@The2808erik, as mentioned in my original gaps, I don't like the gaps on a 1x set up caused by the large cassette. A 11-50 cassette would have some huge gaps between the gears and totally mess up my cadence.

[@The2808erik]

@@tomaldous5641 Idk bigger gaps are not an issue for me in the climbing gears and with a bigger cassette you usually have 1 or 2 tooth gaps up till 22 or 25 teeth.

[@huynhminhtan]

What is your chairing brand? Thank you

[@costakapassas9600]

David, I'm close to buying the Vielo R+1. I'm 183cm tall, shorter torso, longer legs and arms. Saddle height of 79cm. I'm assuming size Large? When you tested the bike which size did you ride? Let me know. Greatly appreciated. Costas

[@semmymaxxy3075]

Your 200rpm cadence at the start of the video says different

[@Simbostyle]

It's an interesting dilemma, 1x or 2x for a road bike. I'm running my 1x gravel bike with GRX for road riding through winter. Solo rides, the simplicity of 1x is great, its quick to change up and down the gears, and I don't miss the extra ratios you get from a 2x. It's only when I'm on club rides I find it a little less ideal. Keeping pace in a group, I sometimes struggle to find a gear that gives me a comfortable cadence. I'm still within 3 to 5 rpm of what I want to be.

[@V.Philly]

Probably in the next 3 years one of the 3 Group-set manufacturers will come up with a solution

[@johnhilton1360]

Is your gravel bike 11 or 12 speed ..??

[@Simbostyle]

@@johnhilton1360 11 speed. The new 12 and13 speeds will address the cadence issue, I'd have thought.

[@MikeRegrexion]

2 years on a 1x setup, no regrets. 42t chainring and 11-36 on the back on mixed routes (hills and flats)

[@chriskros8858]

@@MikeRegrexion You must be strong rider. I have 40T front , 11-42T rear and I would like to have 11-50 or 2x setup 48/31 front and 11-46t rear. 1x drive is OK for e bikes but for mountains and bikepacking trips present drives are too hard. Strange that there is not original setup 2x with soft gearing.

[@edsapple]

It’s the constant ridiculousness with the bike industry, on the one hand they try and sell more gears the better (12 speed) and then in the other try and sell 1x in the other (PMSL). I run 1x on a TCX, there are larger gaps (which you will notice at first) but you soon adjust to it, the bit that actually I struggle with on the 1x more than anything is the noise and if it isn’t 100% clean it feels rough when at either end of the cassette spectrum. I have since adjusted the gearing by adjusting the crank so that on the cruise chain line is as straight as possible.

[@truthseeker8483]

Spray the chain with teflon spray and wipe off for a clean frictionless chain

[@PedroPrego]

How a 401mm reach for a size M/54 is considered relaxed geometry? Unless is to be used with a shorter stem than usual just like what is common on gravel bikes.

[@santiagodaimelalvarezreyes2418]

It is a beautiful bike. My only concern would be there is not enough space for 2 bottle cage.

[@cliffcox7643]

I have a question, maybe no one can answer... On 1X, with narrow/wide chainring, does it matter what tooth you put the chain link on, when applied to the front chain ring? As in, does it make a diff if you put the narrow link on the wide tooth, or narrow tooth of the front chain ring?

[@steve050867]

It's not 1X that'll put people off. It's the price. Most would expect a price saving over the equivalent 2 X .Not the case here.

[@joules531]

It's the gift that keeps on giving. Not only are these bikes curiously more expensive, when you would have thought that they'd be cheaper, but the parts wear out much faster.

[@healthycycles6078]

@@joules531 and that's why my bikes are 3 x 9

[@truthseeker8483]

It was cheap for me.....I just undid my front mech and threw into the trash and fitted a narrow wide front chainring.....😀

[@ravenmoto5948]

Yeah, they take away stuff but still charge you for it.

[@ChristianBorrman]

my first, ex pro, Keith Lambert 531 bike given to me by my uncle who sponsored a team, was 1x campy (super?) record… I rode it up category climbs following the pros in Calpe as a lad and chased them down the downs and along the flats… that was three decades ago… hearing a (newbie) roadie saying they need 2x because they need the “close gears” their strava stats can’t demonstrate is like hearing someone say they cannot drive a car that does not have a close ratio racing gearbox

[@b.b3642]

Looks absolutely fabulous👍🏻

[@EvendimataE]

put an extra chainring but one you will manually transfer in extreme situations when commuting...only if you dont want the clutter of a front derailleur

[@johnhollis7290]

Nice !!!

[@marccarter1350]

1x 14 hub. I am not returning back. It's everything I need. Plus drama free, clean, dead easy to maintain

[@truthseeker8483]

Doesn't it feel a little mushy? I am just remembering the 3 speed hubs from yesterday

[@marccarter1350]

@@truthseeker8483 no. It's an oil soaked Rohloff hub. It's nothing like a the old strummey hubs of the 1950's! It's the cream of the crop of hubs. Made for MBT, but now used mostly by tourers. I get up to 35km on flats on a heavier Thorn touring bike. I am so impressed, that I am going to have a Audax built using a Rohloff hub. Yep, a little more sound in the top 7 gears, but silent on the upper 7. My cycling improved due to having to find the correct gear. They take about 1k miles to break in. Never really break. Maintenance free, an deep rinse and a oil change every 5k miles. Simple stuff, everything is dirt free, chains are bigger, last a lot longer. It's the cost that puts people off, there 1k a go!

[@Drbudweiser]

Love it. Just that crack is nasty. Can you put the usual sram crank on it?

[@Sr.D]

Just want a 1x road group set, 50 on front, 12/13 speed on the back 10-50 speed, bigger jumps than a 2x but same range and simplicity.

[@chriskros8858]

I have GRX 40t crank on my gravel bike and I would change it for GRX 48/31 but buying necessary parts it requires sone money. IMO gearings on gravel bikes are too hard. Shimano should offer 2x setup: front 48/31 and rear cassette 11-46(50) It is possible to make such drive but ....

[@Kingbryan0131]

Hi please share ratio of your front and cassette

[@portland675]

Been Racing 1x for over a decade and riding it for even longer

[@dcv9460]

1X! Woot! Woot! ✔️

[@ChristianBorrman]

stunning bike

[@NasirCrazyguy]

What zipp rims are these?

[@DilbertMuc]

A bright colored bike likes to take an extra tour by itself while you're standing in the waiting line at the ice cream parlour. It's like a flashing sign "take me! I am free!" :D))))

[@truthseeker8483]

ahh that is why everyone is allergic to bright colours today.....😀

[@DilbertMuc]

@@truthseeker8483 Yep. same with city bikes. They are all grey-black in all various shades. The duller and dirtier, the safer.

[@andriegilsson6623]

For the average enthusiast a 1x is more than enough IMHO.

[@a1white]

That derailleur cage doesn’t look big enough for the cassette? It looks great, 1x normally have big ugly long derailleur cages

[@joules531]

One thing I'd like to see, especially on a 1x bike with these incredibly short chainstays, is some video footage shot from behind the bike, with the chain on the largest sprocket. So we can see just how twisted the chain alignment is. I'm not trying to bash 1x systems (I've got one on my shopping bike and it works fine with a 7 speed cassette and long chainstays), but if we are being shown 1x bikes that are being described as having "fewer compromises than ever before" it might be a good idea to be shown the view from the rear of these bikes, so everyone can see just how much of a compromise these 1x systems are, and just let the viewer decide whether such chain twisting is a compromise , or not. Is there any reason why bike reviewers never seem to show this rear view, given that we're are being asked to weigh up the compromises? It's almost as if reviewers are being told not to show the "extreme chain twist" camera angle, because they know that it will look ridiculous.

[@davidarthur]

I think because you’re making this chain alignment thing out to be a bigger issue than it really is. There were no problems running the chain in the biggest or smallest sprockets, whether noise or efficiency The idea there’s some sort of conspiracy is just plain daft 😂

[@joules531]

@@davidarthur Well maybe it would be good to see the bike from behind. Maybe there isn’t a conspiracy per se, but since the chain misalignment issue is very often something that is discussed, it would surely be helpful to show that chain alignment, especially with chain stays that are incredibly short, so that viewers can make up their own mind as to whether it might be an issue for them? I like your presenting style much better than GCN, by the way.

[@davidarthur]

Even though I'm here telling you it's not an issue from my experience of riding this bike and many many other 1x only bikes? Anyway I can look at that next time, there's no conspiracy on my part, I do all the filming myself so filming the bike with me on it is the trickiest part. Got some ideas for raising the bar this year though.

[@joules531]

@@davidarthur Many thanks. And just to reiterate, your informative, no nonsense, presentations are so much better than those at GCN. Just an idea about filming, how about tie wrapping a short 360 camera pole to the chain stay, which would give an innovative view of the chain alignment, and gear changes.

[@davidarthur]

Thanks Joules that means a lot. I've actually got a new 360 camera coming in for review soon so that is something I can try :)

[@rah4981]

Depends where you live. For me, no way I will ride 1X on my road bike, just to many hills and mountains here.

[@iMadrid11]

No. Unless you are doing a very specific route on a track. Like Time Trial, Criterium or Cyclocross. Once you hit the hills or the mountains. You’re going to want a smaller chainring for climbing. Choosing 1x is always a compromise between top speed and easy climbing gears. Your mates on 2x will easily drop you on long rides with a 1x. If you spend too many watts in effort trying to keep up.

[@hail_sagan2830]

I loved road 1x when I lived in the US Midwest, where everything is flat for hundreds of miles. Now that I live in Colorado? Not so much! We'll have to wait for 14-speed groupsets before it's viable out here 🤣

[@BurgerTime7441]

Now that SRAM has the Apex AXS groupset - with powermeter - for under $1000 MSRP, I want a bike with it. Unfortunately, I don't see any manufacturers or sellers that are selling 1x road bikes at mid-level prices.

[@BluedotProductions]

It's about being able to keep the cadence between grade differences and close ratio shifting. You can't get that out of a 1X

[@siguureinartraustason8564]

I don't like 1x on a road and I prefer 2x cause I get low and high gears I need with 2x. On a gravel bike 1x is great and for a mtb I must say I would not have one without 1x.

[@LuLeBe]

And here's me thinking about a 3x setup for steeper climbs than my stamina allows on my 27/36 smallest gear.

[@ediehl007]

It's negative 12.22 degrees Celsius here. My bike ain't coming out for a while

[@TheGroupRide]

When you're in the wheel, and on the limit, the (even slightly) too big of cadence changes of 1x is absolutely crippling. If you don't race on the road, or race crits (where you don't need a small ring), then 1x is a great solution.

[@davidlenneberg4303]

It is a good looking bike would be better with Campagnolo 1x13 as I think it’s a the better group set.

[@alainpfammatter8224]

Why didnt they use a sram red axs rear derailleur? It looks odd with all sram red and then force on the back.

[@davidarthur]

Think that was just down to supply issues

[@user-el2mk8sb9s]

What’s a good chainring size to choose for a 1x road ?

[@davidarthur]

It depends on fitness, terrain and cassette side but 40t is often a good choice

[@S.Prestage]

When i race cyclocross i don't have an issue with riding 1x but when training on the road i prefer 2x

[@chris1275cc]

I run 1x on my road bike but I'm not really a roadie so it made sense to me, easier to transition from my 1x gravel and MTBs, But I built it with 105 controls and a GRX rear mech so I could go 2x if want/need too. My issue with bikes like this is that 2x is not an option and justifying it with dubious at best areo claims, wider tyres and shorter chainstay etc. When all those things already exist on 2x frames just smacks of marketing BS to sell an overpriced boutique bike.

[@chris1275cc]

Just to add before someone else does, I know the big names in the bike industry pull the same crap too.

[@chiefrocker12]

Ahh the debate. I used to be a 1X road convert, rode all of my past 4 road bikes on 1x, and for people considering, here are the cons. Get used to more cross chain noise, especially with AXS chains, as the tolerances between rollers are tighter, you will get more noise on extreme angles, and this is more highlighted with shorter chain stays (

[@truthseeker8483]

If you are a causal rider that freewheels downhill it isnt a an issue in hilly areas. 😀

[@Cryr213]

but the climb will be