[Closed] Cotic Escapade v tripster AT v ?

I had a brief spin on the AT (very brief i.e. what I could find in the woods in the local park. Similar to what I'd ride normally though). The geometry feels spot on but it's definitely on the 'solid' end. I'd almost say it feels like more of a drop bar MTB frame i.e. it starts to get some vim at much higher speeds and loadings.

I think the frame weight is pretty chunky too, so you may not lose anything compared to the Cotic.

I was pondering a similar thing at the end of last year as a bigger tyred alternative to my pro6. I was looking at the AT, Arkose (which I think is lighter, better specced and cheaper than the AT), Rondo Ruut and also, for a bit of a left field choice, a Thompson R9300.

The 9300 was a strong contender. It's on the roadier end of the spectrum geometry wise but the tyre clearance is good, and it's got a wider seat tube so will take a proper dropper for the rougher stuff. If you're anywhere vaguely southeast, Destination Bike at box hill had a demo one in for a bit, not sure if they still do.

I know it doesn't help much as it isn't on sale anymore, but I ended up with a second hand Bowman Foots Cray. Which is awesome.

I was going to suggest the Foots Cray but didn't realise it was no longer made. The Pilgrims has clearance for wider tyres but it's not really gravelly as such.

Orange rx9 could be worth a look, Genesis.Fugio or NS RAG+. Are you after frame and fork or complete bike?

Frame & fork. Fugio & Orange will be heavier than the Cotic I reckon. Not keen on the Rag+ & NS products QC can be a bit hit & miss

If weight is an issue for you, spec the full carbon fork on the Escapade…the box it comes in weighs more.

Got a mk1 road rat that I use for ‘gravel’ and work commute that is in road bike mode with 32c tyres on. It is not a particularly light build, but rides brilliantly. I’ve not noticed the weight,  but not been hammering the Alps or anything and in actual fact it isn’t THAT heavy. Sure it’s heavy compared with a pretty lightweight carbon road race bike, but very light compared to a hard tail MTB with road tyres on. I think with a decent lightweight build you could get an Escapade within acceptable road bike weight, especially with the carbon fork. I’d love to re-frame it with an escapade, but other things keep getting in the way!

its not all about weight. It’s a well overplayed parameter on bikes. The way the bike rides and the feel of it should trump a few grams of weight in my opinion. And the roadrat rides brilliantly and the escapade will be even better. I guess test rides might help.

I had an Escapade set up as a single speed and it didn’t ride heavy. Pretty quick and could easily handle some rough surfaces. Had a RAG+ too and would say that overall it was better than the Escapade. No problems with the build or finish on any part of the frame or components.

I’ve had a Roadrat too running an Alfine hub. Lovely looking bike, but I just couldn’t get on with it for some reason.

 I guess test rides might help

well yes, but shops don't stock them now and if they do they are the older versions

Don't forget to check out the Fairlight Secan that has just come out...

Don’t forget to check out the Fairlight Secan that has just come out…

stunning looking bike that

I have one of the new Escapades and it's certainly not a heavy steel frame. Much lighter and more nimble than the Croix de Fer it replaced. If you're road riding consists of steady miles it's absolutely fine, but it's not really something you'd want to chase KoM's on. I've used mine for the Dirty Reiver, weekend club rides, a light tour and commuting and have never felt it's lacking. If you like steel the Secan is lovely, or consider the newly launched Fearless Vulture.