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First world problem alert
I am fortunate enough to be able to grow my fleet of 2 bikes to 3 via cycle 2 work.
I have a MTB which is adequate for trail use, and is not in need of replacement.
I would like to look at a summer / fair weather commuter to go with my existing commuter
For context i live 5 miles outside of Truro, and the hospital where i work is on the other side of Truro. It's quicker for me to park at the park and ride, hop on my bike and cycle than it is to drive. It's essentially 1.5miles of down, then 1.5miles of continuous up. I can just about manage the timing with childcare etc by having something with pedal assist for the uphill, as otherwise it would take too long and eat too much of my work day (timing is very tight).
I have a Cairn Brave 1.0 drop bar Egravel commuting monster bike, with an E7000 steps motor. It has 2.3 inch tyres and i have used it to commute to work in all weathers for the last 2 years. Apart from pads and a recent new drive train it has been inexpensive, and far nicer than driving through town. It is big and heavy, and a pig to keep much above 18mph on the flat; forget about keeping off the motor in a head wind. It's overkill in the summer, and i would like to go on longer rides
I have 5k on cycle to work (although would rather spend ~3). I have been looking at more lightweight e-road /light gravel bikes, but i cant really workout my best option. Prefer ~40mm tyres as Cornish roads/tractors/pot holes etc .Options i have considered
Specialised Turbo Creo- the cheapest is just in budget- it is quite heavy and isn't reallly that available. Plus the colours are not to my taste.
Ribble- one of the rear motor x35 lot. Not seen lots of stuff about how the x35 feels compared to the shimano motor (i suspect less torquey but less resistance- more effort on the hills but easier on the flat)
Cannondale Topstone Neo SL- looks nice
orbea gain- unsure about m vs d, a bit more cash but often on offer
Has anyone explored the lightweight e-gravel e-road world and have any other thoughts?