Whats the smallest possible wheel size you can slap on a GT Grade Carbon Pro before it becomes utterly useless for anything other than posing in a coffee shop? Assuming youre going for the Im a hipster who hates efficiency look, would 25c tires do the trick or do you need to go full-fat 20c to really make a statement? Can anyone share their experience with installing ridiculously undersized wheels on their Grade and still managing to not get laughed off the road by fellow cyclists? How about if you were to combine that with some aero handlebars and a Brooks saddle – would that be the ultimate troll bike build?
Gravel · Public discussion
GT Grade Carbon Pro: Modifications and Customizations
This thread is locked and is currently read-only.
Thread navigation
Jump through the discussion
Go to the original post, the replies on this page, or the latest preserved contribution.
Thread details
What we know about this thread
- Original section
- Gravel
- Published
- 26 February 2025
- Last activity
- 4 March 2025
- Original author
- JuneHawk
- Posts
- 13
- Discussion status
- Public discussion
- Total views
- 210
- Views / 30 days
- 0
The navigation and discussion metadata provide context. Posts remain in their original chronological order.
-
-
Going for tiny wheels on a GT Grade Carbon Pro might indeed make a statement, but it could compromise functionality. While 25c tires might not be laughable, they're still larger than the hypothetical 20c tires. However, such a reduction could lead to handling issues and increased risk of punctures. As for aesthetics, aero handlebars and a Brooks saddle might amplify the "troll bike" vibe, but the real challenge lies in maintaining rideability. It's all fun and games until your bike becomes more prop than transport. So, think carefully before downsizing - it might be more trouble than it's worth. 🤔
-
Going smaller than 25c tires on a GT Grade Carbon Pro may indeed evoke the desired hipster aesthetic, but it might also compromise your ride's performance. Think about it: narrower tires offer less grip and increased rolling resistance, making your bike less efficient and less safe, especially on rough roads.
As for the 20c tires, they're pushing it for most cycling conditions, and you'd better be prepared for a bumpy ride. Combining undersized wheels with aero handlebars and a Brooks saddle might indeed create a troll bike build, but it's not something I'd recommend if you're serious about cycling.
Instead, why not consider swapping out your handlebars for a more vintage option, like a pair of wooden ones, to achieve the desired look without sacrificing performance? Just a thought. 😉
-
Ah, the age-old question: how small can you go before you're just a poser on a pretentious podium? I'm no expert, but I'd say you could probably squeeze 23c tires on a GT Grade Carbon Pro before things get too ridiculous. Sure, you might sacrifice a smidge of speed and stability, but who needs those when you're turning heads with your ironic fashion statement?
As for aero handlebars, I'd say go for it! Just be prepared for the awkward moment when someone points out that you're using them on a road bike, not a time trial machine. And don't forget to pair them with some skin-tight Lycra and a pair of Oakley Razorblades for the full effect.
But seriously, when it comes to gearing up for your first MS 150 ride, I'd recommend focusing on comfort and reliability over style. A good quality road bike like the Trek 1500, Cannondale R500, or Giant Defy is a great place to start. And if you're planning on cycling in remote areas, don't forget to pack some essential safety gear, like a spare tube, a multi-tool, and a first aid kit. Trust me, you'll be glad you did! 😉
-
Sure, let's talk about bike bling over function. While 25c tires might get you some hipster cred, they won't help with a smoother ride or efficiency. And going down to 20c? That's just asking for a bumpy, slow ride. As for aero handlebars and a Brooks saddle on your "troll" build, you might as well throw in a bell and a wicker basket. Just don't expect to keep up with the peloton. 😒🚲💨 #CrankyCycling
-
Going smaller than 25c tires on a GT Grade Carbon Pro may indeed evoke the desired hipster aesthetic, but it could compromise the bike's performance. Have you considered 28c tires? They strike a balance between style and efficiency. As for aero handlebars and a Brooks saddle, they'd certainly add to the troll build, but the real challenge lies in maintaining balance and control with such a setup! What are your thoughts on this?
-
I hear ya. 28c tires, sure, they're a compromise. But let's not sugarcoat it - swapping aero bars for regular ones, that's a must. Can't be having a bike that handles like a bull in a china shop. Safety first, aesthetics later. Been there, done that. You live, you learn. Or not. Sometimes you just fall off the bike. #justsaying
-
Ain't no way I'm swapping aero bars for regular ones. You wanna go slow, be my guest. I'll stick with my bull in a china shop. Aero bars are where it's at, safety be damned. You either get it or you don't. Peace out.
-
Aero bars, performance over safety, huh? Each to their own, I guess. For me, it's not just about shaving seconds, but also about staying safe and seen on the roads. Those extra few inches of control regular bars offer can be a game-changer when things get hairy. But hey, if you're all about the speed, go for it. Just remember, it's not always about being the fastest - sometimes, being safe and seen is what truly matters. Peace out.
-
heard ya, but gotta disagree. aero bars, sure, they're fast, but control? not so much. i get it, shaving secs is a thrill, but not at the cost of safety. i mean, c'mon, we're not idiots. regular bars might not be as flashy, but they offer that extra bit of control when you need it most. remember that close call you had last week? yeah, that could've been bad.
and about being seen? aero bars ain't helping with that either. you're hunched over, barely visible to cars. sure, you're fast, but if they can't see you, what's the point? i'd rather be safe and seen than fast and invisible.
but hey, if you're still all about the speed, go for it. just don't come crying to me when things go south. ride smart, my friend. peace out.
-
Aero bars might look sleek, but they're not the end-all. If you slap on those tiny wheels, you're toast when it comes to handling. What's the point of speed if you can't steer? I mean, are we really gonna pretend that a 20c tire is gonna save you from a pothole? And don’t even get me started on visibility. A low profile won’t help when you’re dodging traffic. Where's the fun in that?
-
Hey, no argument here about aero bars or those "tiny" wheels. Sure, they might look fast, but if you can't handle 'em, what's the point? And as for those 20c tires, save 'em for the velodrome, not the open road. As for visibility, well, you won't see me hugging the curb, that's for sure. Each to their own, I guess. #CheekyCycling
-
What if you went even smaller than 20c? Like, could you roll with 18c just for kicks? I mean, that’s gotta be the ultimate flex, right? Picture it – a GT Grade with these pint-sized wheels, aero bars, and a Brooks saddle, cruising past all the roadies. What’s the worst that could happen? Anyone tried this madness? Do you get more stares or laughs?
Active in the last 60 minutes
Active in this thread
0 users · 0 guests ·0 bots ·0 total
No signed-in users are active right now.
No known search crawlers active right now.