Shimano

Specialized had a sale on last year's Roubaix so I decided to go for it. It came with DT Swiss 540 wheels with 32mm tires. That combo felt sluggish to me so I saw these Ultegra wheels on sale on BTD and decided to give them a try. I fitted them with Conti 5000 S TR in 28 mm width and a 11-34 12sp cassette, now the ride feels a lot lighter and more responsive. Was able to mount the tires by hand, no levers needed and they sealed with no problem. They are a solid set of no-nonsense wheels, maybe not the lightest available, but I'm quite happy with them. Love the quiet freehub.

I have two pairs of cycling shoes for gravel riding. I use these for dry days when I'm riding on the road and on smooth firm gravel and dirt roads, as they are white in color. The bike is a Scott Addict gravel 15 with continental Terra Competition tires. The other pair I have is a darker color Shimano shoe with better off road walking and is better for dirty, wet, rough stuff. For that terrain I go with different tires too. Fit is excellent. I bought these in a size 42, which is the same size I have used in Sidi Ergo Road shoes, and now the Nimble Ultimate Glide Road Racing shoe. These are best if you don't want a heavy gravel, mountain bike shoe and want something with a light stiff carbon road feel. Super comfy.

Hi -- if you don't have any brake cable's, and you will need them in the future (learn to replace these yourself). This is a good inexpensive option to have (buy two sets). This set comes with everything you need, buy with confidence, buy from BikeTiresDirect --- P.S. unless you are racing, or doing serious milage each week these cables will work, and work well.

I consistently clean and lubricate the chain before nearly every ride, a practice influenced more by my local conditions than by the chain's characteristics. The chain is lightweight and has proven to be quite durable. Although it comes at a higher price point, my regular maintenance helps to extend its lifespan. I recently acquired a new bike equipped with Ultegra Di2 12 Speed and purchased the 9100 chain to alternate with the 8100 chain that originally came with the bike. To minimize the frequency of maintenance, I use hot wax for lubrication and maintain two chains. Notably, the 9100 chain operates slightly more smoothly than the Ultegra chain.