- Location
- Darlington
I have an aluminium Rose cyclo cross bike it is beautifully balanced and by far my favourite bike. I have a full suspension MTB and a carbon road bike, Specialized Roubaix though so quite good on the rough stuff.A gravel bike would probably be alright although it depends whether you see any mud at all or not, a hybrid bike maybe better as it will be more comfortable as you wont have the handlebar's so low down which may make longer rides more comfortable. Carbon is good and light and will withstand most impacts but make sure you don't cheap out on carbon frames as they will snap very easily. Aluminium and steel is cheaper so will get you better quality parts on the bike. On the 1x and 2x topic a 1x will make shifting easier especially if you look at something with a large cassette like a 11x or a 12x and will be easier to maintain than a 2x as well as lighter if weight is important. Building your own bike may also be a good idea if you have the skills as the parts will be cheaper than pre built and you can make the bike to your spec. All that said i have always ridden mountain bikes so don't know it all about gravel and hybrid bikes