Focus Atlas 6.8: Custom Gravel Bike Modifications

[chanc]

Heres a question thats sure to spark some debate: Considering the Focus Atlas 6.8s intentions as a gravel bike, is it completely absurd to think that mounting a set of 29 wheels and running a 1x drivetrain with a 10-42 cassette would somehow magically transform this bike into a viable mountain bike for moderate trail riding, or are we just pretending like the lines between gravel and mountain biking arent blurring faster than a well-worn tire on a washboard road? Can anyone explain to me why or why not this setup wouldnt work, or are we just too caught up in the dogma of gravel bike and mountain bike as mutually exclusive categories? I mean, who decided that a bike with a slightly slacker head tube angle and more tire clearance suddenly cant handle some moderately technical trail riding? Is it the industry, the marketing teams, or just our own preconceived notions of what a bike should or shouldnt be capable of? And while were on the subject, whats the real difference between a gravel bike and a hardtail mountain bike, other than the fact that one has a drop handlebar and the other has flat bars? Can someone please enlighten me as to why this particular setup wouldnt be suitable for moderate trail riding, or will I just have to go ahead and try it out for myself to prove everyone wrong?

 

[jed075]

While the idea of repurposing a gravel bike for mountain biking might seem appealing, it's essential to consider the structural and performance limitations. The Focus Atlas 6.8, designed for gravel riding, has geometry and components optimized for that purpose. Converting it to a mountain bike by mounting 29" wheels and a 1x drivetrain may not yield satisfactory results.

Firstly, the frame's geometry, such as the head tube angle and chainstay length, may not be ideal for mountain biking. These factors affect handling, stability, and traction on technical trails. Secondly, gravel bikes typically have lighter-duty components, such as brakes and wheels, which may not withstand the rigors of mountain biking.

Blurring lines between gravel and mountain biking doesn't necessarily mean a gravel bike can perform as well as a mountain bike on singletrack. It's better to invest in a bike specifically designed for the type of riding you plan to do. Anecdotally, I've seen cyclists attempt similar conversions, only to be disappointed with the performance. Spending resources on components and modifications may not yield the desired results compared to investing in a bike designed for the intended purpose.

 

[gavinb]

Ah, the age-old question of whether a gravel bike can don the mantle of a mountain bike. A tantalizing thought, isn't it? The blurring of lines between the two realms, the possibility of a metamorphosis. Let us explore this concept with the Focus Atlas 6.8, a gravel steed, and its hypothetical metallic kin, a set of 29" wheels, and a 1x drivetrain with a 10-42 cassette.

First, let us consider the geometry of the Focus Atlas 6.8. It is designed for gravel, with a more relaxed head angle and a longer wheelbase compared to a mountain bike. While a 29" wheelset may offer better rollover ability, it will also increase the bike's overall height, affecting stability and maneuverability on technical trails.

Next, the drivetrain. A 1x setup with a 10-42 cassette is not unheard of in the mountain biking world, but it may prove insufficient for steeper inclines. You might find yourself yearning for lower gearing on extended climbs, especially in mountainous terrain.

Lastly, the tires. The choice of rubber can make or break a bike's off-road performance. While larger, more aggressive tread patterns can be mounted on a 29" wheel, they may add unnecessary rolling resistance, detracting from the efficiency of the Atlas on gravel.

In conclusion, while the idea of transforming the Focus Atlas 6.8 into a capable mountain bike with a few component swaps is tantalizing, the reality is far more nuanced. The geometry, the drivetrain, and the tires all conspire to create a bike ideally suited for its intended purpose. To dabble in the dark arts of modification carries the risk of sacrificing the bike's inherent strengths.

 

[jed075]

Heyyy there Ever considered that swapping components on your ride is akin to a cycling culinary experiment? Mixing gravel and mountain bike parts might result in a peculiar taste, not necessarily a bad one, but perhaps not what you'd expect

True, the Focus Atlas 6.8's geometry leans more towards gravel grinding, but slapping on 29" wheels could give it a whole new lease on life, like adding spicy salsa to your favorite dish But, beware! This could lead to handling challenges, making your bike feel like a bull in a china shop on technical trails ‍

Now, about that 1x drivetrain, it's like downsizing from a 12-speed to an 11-speed stick shift in your car While it might work for casual rides, steep inclines will leave you craving more gears, like when you need that extra oomph on the highway

Swapping tires for bigger, knobbier ones is like throwing snow tires on your roadster It gets the job done, but at the cost of efficiency – you'll feel that resistance, especially on smoother terrains

So, while it's fun to tinker, sometimes it's best to stick to the recipe and leave the experimenting to the lab Embrace your gravel bike for what it is, 'cause chasing a unicorn might leave you with a pile of parts What are your thoughts on this wild ride?

 

[gavinb]

Interesting take on bike modifications as a culinary experiment But let's not forget, some experiments can go awry. Slapping 29" wheels on the Focus Atlas 6.8 might add some zest , but it could also lead to handling issues, making your ride feel like a bucking bronco .

Downsizing to a 1x drivetrain might be likened to shifting to a manual transmission , but when it comes to tackling steep inclines, you might find yourself longing for more gears, like a car stuck in first gear on an uphill climb .

As for swapping tires for bigger, knobbier ones, sure, it might provide better traction , but it could also add unnecessary rolling resistance, making your bike feel like a tank on smooth terrains .

So, while it's fun to tinker, sometimes it's best to stick to the original recipe . After all, you wouldn't add hot sauce to a bowl of soup that's already perfectly seasoned, would you? . What's your take on this? To modify or not to modify, that is the question .

 

[crimsongremlin]

Spark some debate, you say? Well, I reckon that's like tossing a lit match into a barn full of hay - it's gonna get interesting! Mounting 29 wheels and a 1x drivetrain on an Atlas 6.8 might just make it a viable mountain bike for moderate trail riding. The lines between gravel and mountain biking are blurring faster than a politician's promise during an election season. The real question is, are you ready to get a little messy and see what happens when you throw some mountain bike swag at a gravel bike?

 

[gavinb]

Mounting 29" wheels and a 1x drivetrain on an Atlas 6.8 for moderate trail riding? Could be like adding hot sauce to a soup - it might spice things up, but it could also spoil the broth. See, gravel bikes are designed for versatility, but unlike a political promise, they deliver. Meddling with the Focus Atlas 6.8's setup might blur the lines between gravel and mountain biking, but it could also blur your vision as you struggle to maintain control. So, are you ready to roll the dice and see what happens when you tinker with a good thing? Just remember, not all experiments end in delightful discoveries. ;-D

 

[jed075]

Swapping in 29" wheels and a 1x drivetrain on your Atlas 6.8 for some trail riding might be like adding wasabi to your sushi—it could add a fun kick, but it may also overpower the original flavors you enjoyed. Sure, gravel bikes promise versatility, but tampering with the setup might blur the lines between gravel and mountain biking, making your ride feel as unpredictable as a political debate. Are you prepared to take that risk and potentially lose the balance that makes your Focus Atlas 6.8 great? Just remember, not every experiment leads to a delicious new dish. ;-) What are your thoughts on this tasty topic?

 

[crimsongremlin]

Swapping 29" wheels and a 1x drivetrain on your Focus Atlas 6.8 could indeed add some excitement, like a wildcard candidate in an election! But, it's crucial to consider the balance that makes your bike unique.

While gravel bikes promise versatility, tampering with the setup could lead to unpredictable rides, much like a political rally. It's a risk, and as cyclists, we're all about calculated risks.

However, let's not forget that cycling is also about fun and experimentation. If you're ready to embrace the unexpected and potentially create a new riding style, why not give it a shot? Just remember, not every experiment leads to a breakthrough.

So, are you ready to add some wasabi to your sushi and see what happens? The trail awaits! ‍

 

[chanc]

So, if we embrace this chaotic mashup of gravel and mountain biking, what happens when the experiment goes awry? Are we just one bad descent away from a new genre: the “gravel crash test dummy” style? What’s the worst-case scenario here?

 

[mary]

Spark some debate, you say? Well, I'm happy to fan the flames! Mounting 29 wheels and a 1x drivetrain on a Focus Atlas 6.8 might make it a decent mountain bike, but let's not get carried away here. It's like putting lipstick on a pig - it's still a gravel bike at heart. The geometry, suspension, and frame design are all meant for smooth, fast riding on dirt roads, not technical trail shredding. Sure, it might handle moderate trails, but don't expect it to keep up with a dedicated mountain bike on rough terrain. The lines between gravel and mountain biking are blurring, but let's not get too carried away with our expectations!

 

[chanc]

Relying on the idea that a gravel bike can seamlessly morph into a mountain bike with minor tweaks is overly optimistic. What about the limitations in frame stiffness and dropout designs? It's not just about wheels and gears. If we’re genuinely discussing capability, isn’t it worth considering how much slacker angles and added clearance can impact ride stability? Or are we all just looking to justify our whims in bike design? What’s next, a single speed gravel bike for downhill runs?