Boardman ADV 9.0: Building a Custom Gravel Bike

[xeus]

Isnt everyone building a custom gravel bike with the Boardman ADV 9.0 overlooking the elephant in the room - its relatively conservative geometry? Given that modern gravel bikes are trending towards slacker head angles, lower bottom brackets, and longer wheelbases, doesnt the ADV 9.0s more traditional design make it less than ideal for tackling technical, rocky terrain or high-speed descents?

Is the Boardman ADV 9.0s emphasis on versatility and comfort coming at the expense of true off-road capability? Does the bikes lack of adjustability in the head tube and seat tube angles limit its potential for customization, forcing builders to make compromises in either the front or rear end of the bike?

Can the ADV 9.0s fork be truly optimized for both on-road and off-road performance, given its 100mm of travel and relatively narrow clearance for larger tires? Doesnt this compromise limit the bikes ability to tackle more aggressive terrain, or require builders to make difficult choices between tire size and suspension performance?

Furthermore, isnt the trend towards building custom gravel bikes with high-end components, paired with the ADV 9.0s more affordable price point, creating a false narrative around the bikes capabilities and limitations? Are builders setting themselves up for disappointment by expecting the ADV 9.0 to perform on par with more expensive, purpose-built gravel bikes?

Isnt it time to reevaluate the Boardman ADV 9.0s place in the world of gravel bikes, and consider whether its strengths and weaknesses make it better suited to a different type of rider or terrain?

 

[SpeedsterEve]

Ah, the Boardman ADV 9.0, the Clark Kent of gravel bikes. Looks like a mild-mannered road companion, but can it really save the day on technical terrain? Or is it just a bird wearing a bat suit, if you catch my drift?

The bike's focus on versatility and comfort might be its Achilles' heel when it comes to off-road prowess. And that lack of adjustability in the geometry? More like a creative writing assignment where you're forced to choose between your favorite limbs!

But hey, let's not forget the elephant in the room: the fork. It's like trying to use a one-size-fits-all hat on a crowd of hippos. Sure, it fits, but is it really doing its job?

And finally, the price point. False narratives are as common as flat tires, but expecting a budget bike to perform like a pro athlete might leave you feeling like you've been passed by a granny on a tricycle. Maybe it's time to accept the ADV 9.0 for what it is: a versatile companion for less extreme adventures, not the next mountain conqueror.

 

[nicoliani]

The ADV 9.0's geometry isn't a deal-breaker for everyone. Sure, modern gravel bikes are leaning towards slacker head angles and longer wheelbases, but the ADV 9.0 still holds its ground on less technical trails and tarmac.

Comfort and versatility are crucial for gravel riding, and the ADV 9.0 delivers on that front. While it may not excel in aggressive off-road situations, it's more than capable for the average gravel enthusiast.

As for the fork, 100mm of travel is sufficient for most gravel adventures. Clearance could be a concern for some, but with careful tire selection, it's manageable.

Builders should be realistic about the ADV 9.0's performance capabilities. It's not a high-end, purpose-built gravel bike, but it offers a solid platform for customization without breaking the bank.

Perhaps it's best to view the ADV 9.0 as a versatile all-rounder, rather than a specialist in any one area. It may not dominate technical terrain or high-speed descents, but it's a reliable companion for mixed-terrain rides.

 

[2wheelwill]

Hold up, let's not write off the Boardman ADV 9.0 just yet. Yes, its geometry is more traditional, but that doesn't mean it's a dud off-road. The bike's versatility and comfort can be seen as strengths, not weaknesses.

True, the fork's 100mm travel and clearance might not be ideal for aggressive terrain, but it's a compromise for on-road performance. And about that false narrative, the ADV 9.0's affordable price point doesn't equate to subpar performance.

Perhaps it's not the best fit for high-end component builds, but it excels in its own right. It's time to appreciate the ADV 9.0 for what it is: a solid gravel bike that doesn't need to break the bank.

 

[paulc13]

The Boardman ADV 9.0's traditional design might be a downside for some, but let's not forget that not all riders need or want aggressive geometry. Yes, modern gravel bikes are leaning towards slacker head angles and longer wheelbases, but that doesn't mean the ADV 9.0 is outdated. Its geometry offers stability and control, perfect for long rides and mixed terrain.

The ADV 9.0's versatility and comfort don't necessarily compromise off-road capability. It's about finding the right balance based on your riding style. The bike's adjustability might be limited, but it's more than capable of handling various terrains with the right component selection.

As for the fork, 100mm of travel is sufficient for most gravel rides. The clearance could be wider, but it's a trade-off for a smoother ride on paved roads. It's all about making informed choices based on your riding preferences.

Lastly, the price point doesn't dictate the bike's performance. High-end components can enhance the ride, but they don't guarantee superiority over more affordable bikes like the ADV 9.0. It's time to appreciate the bike for what it is - a versatile gravel bike that caters to a wide range of riders and terrains.

 

[nicoliani]

Hey, I get what you're saying about the ADV 9.0's traditional design. But, c'mon, not everyone needs a super-aggressive geo. I've seen heaps of riders kill it on long rides with this bike, TBH.

Sure, it might not be a trail slayer, but it's still a solid choice for mixed terrain. And let's face it, not all of us are pros who need the latest, most aggressive geo. Comfort and versatility matter too, y'know?

I'll give you that the fork clearance could be a bit roomier, but it's a trade-off for a smoother ride on paved roads. It's all about knowing what you want from your bike and making informed choices, IMO.

As for the price, it's a steal for a bike that performs this well. Don't let the high-end components on other bikes fool you – they don't automatically make those bikes better. The ADV 9.0 offers great value for its price and can handle various terrains with the right components.

So yeah, let's appreciate the ADV 9.0 for what it is – a versatile gravel bike that caters to a wide range of riders and terrains, without breaking the bank.

 

[xeus]

Isn't it naive to think the ADV 9.0 can keep up with more aggressive gravel bikes just because it’s comfy and versatile? Sure, it’s fine for casual rides, but when the terrain gets gnarly, that conservative geo really shows its limits. Riders expecting it to handle the same way as a slacker, more aggressive bike are gonna be disappointed. Are we just ignoring the reality that this bike's design might actually hold back performance when it matters most?

 

[2wheelwill]

Y'know, maybe we're placing unrealistic expectations on the ADV 9.0. Yeah, it's not as slack or aggressive as other gravel bikes, but that's kinda the point. It's versatile and comfy, sure, but it's not meant to dominate technical trails. Let's stop pretending it's something it's not. It's got its own thing going on, y'know? Not every bike needs to be a beast on gnarly terrain. Sometimes, it's okay to just chill and enjoy the ride.