There’s a broadly agreed-upon saying that goes one thing alongside the strains of “By no means change your gear the day earlier than a race.” For a lot of athletes competing at Unbound Gravel 2024, the traditionally difficult course usually requires last-minute swaps to higher accommodate the unpredictable circumstances race day brings.
We noticed Rob Britton’s and Group Amani rider Jordan Schleck’s customized Issue Ostro Gravel builds forward of the race and wished to supply some perception on what goes into making ready for the most important race on the gravel schedule.
Each of those builds are based mostly across the Issue Ostro Gravel frameset however each use totally different builds and part selections, in addition to wildly totally different, eye-catching customized paint jobs. Chill and take a look at this pair of spicy gravel race machines.
For extra unbound tech content material, try our member-exclusive Unbound mega tech gallery and the information concerning the new and top-secret SRAM 13 pace tools that was noticed on the race.
Rob Britton’s Issue Ostro Gravel
Simply one of the eye-catching paint jobs within the elite discipline, Rob Britton’s Issue Ostro Gravel pops with its comic-style font and vivid colors. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
A 50-tooth 1x Easton chainring and 11-speed 11-30 cassette present seemingly steep gearing. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
However upon nearer inspection, we discovered a Categorised rear hub with an inner gear reducer which supplies what is basically a digital small chainring. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
The system communicates wirelessly by way of a Bluetooth connection from the ‘shift’ button and the hub by using a sensor within the proprietary thru-axle. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
This button toggles the Categorised system between the specified gear selection very like a entrance derailleur. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
Britton opted for 45mm Schwalbe G-One Overland tyres. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
It appears Rob Britton would not consider in superstitions. The evening earlier than the race, we stumbled upon Britton’s bike fitted with a Fox 32 Stepcast suspension fork, and with the chain off for a last-minute waxing. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
Easy accessibility to instruments could make a distinction when issues go unsuitable. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
Jordan Schleck’s customized Issue Ostro
Group Amani rider Jordan Schleck was rolling across the expo on his Issue Ostro Gravel. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
A Black Inc built-in bar and stem up entrance, word the CeramicSpeed SLT headset bearing high cowl (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
A 1x 48-tooth SRAM chainring is likely one of the hottest spec choices within the elite discipline. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
SRAM’s 12-speed Eagle AXS derailleur and cassette full the drivetrain with a well-rounded gear vary. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
700x44mm Vittoria Mezcal tyres obtained the call-up for the treacherous terrain. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
A valiant effort from Schleck culminated in a sub-10-hour end. (Picture credit score: David Kennedy)
The most recent race content material, interviews, options, critiques and knowledgeable shopping for guides, direct to your inbox!
