SRAM Apex 1

Peek in here [Music] [Applause] [Music] Package nicely. Crank arm off to the side here [Music] It says Gxp standard [Applause] Of course the other cra...

I have the entry level 2019 Diverge E5 which came with Shimano Claris (2x 8 speed). Early this year I upgraded it to a SRAM Apex 1 (1x 11speed). I think I was able to adjust quickly and I'm loving the simplicity of the 1x.

Decathlon's Triban range has been a very good budget option for entry level bikes over the past couple of years and to be frank having a SRAM Apex set at this price range is just phenomenal (hence why they sold out so fast ahah). The 1x11 drivetrain is also spot on for a novice/casual rider since it simplifies shifting and overall maintenance. I personally haven't seen 650b's on a XL frame but I don't think they'll look too bad, if that's your concern, and they'll certainly give you a very comfortable ride due to the larger width. As far as switching to 700c wheels: it's certainly doable for a novice but there's no shame in asking your local bike shop to do it for you once you feel like you need a bike check up.

The lighter bike will get upto speed a little easier and you'll feel slightly less fatigued after a ride. With Shimano Tiagra Sora vs Sram Apex 1, Well setup Shimano levers are easier on the wrists if your doing long journeys. Apex 1 is a good choice for competitive riders as its light but not as day in day out durable.

Without doing any research I like the Salsa. I have an Apex 1 bike that I really love, and a friend of mine has a Journeyman that seems pretty great. Probably can't go wrong with either one.

I have ridden my diverge with both sram apex 1 and shimano grx di2 1x (current setup). Apex 1 is fine, a lot better than I thought but I had already decided to do the switch when I bought the bike.

Then, I test road both, and the Apex 1 came out way on top. The Apex was much more comfortable (fatter tire with the 650 vs the 700 on the Claris), felt alot more solid, and just seemed to ride smoothly. And I've never ridden a bike with a 1x front derailleur, but it was really nice! The shifting was really nice and I liked not having to think too much.

Beautiful. Such a fun bike huh? I’ve got the same Apex 1 build but recently upgraded the wheels. It’s fun on my road rides but it’s insane how fast it feels as soon as you get in the dirt.

if you want lower range you can upgrade cassettes (sunrace makes 11-46) or reduce the chain ring size as well. my only issue with the apex 1 was the brake squeal, otherwise it’s been an awesome bike. I’ve also fell multiple times on the bike and the group set has held up pretty well. I would recommend the 2x if you plan on riding at a high pace for long distances but for casual rides i have had no issues with 1x.

If you want budget 1x you could try the SRAM line of apex or rival but I assume you want to stay Shimano so I would recommend keeping your brifters and getting a microshift advent derailleur and cassette because it's cheap, has a clutch and with 9 speed pull ratio isn't important.