For those of you whove successfully taken the plunge into the world of custom builds, specifically with the GT Grade Carbon Expert as the base model, can you honestly say that the claimed benefits of increased torsional stiffness and improved power transfer are actually noticeable in real-world riding conditions, or are these just marketing buzzwords designed to part enthusiasts from their hard-earned cash?
It seems to me that the GT Grade Carbon Expert, with its unique blend of endurance geometry and aero features, is the perfect candidate for a custom build project, but only if youre willing to forego the safety net of a warranty and accept the risks associated with mixing and matching components from different manufacturers.
Assuming youve got the necessary expertise and tools, what are the most critical components to upgrade or replace in order to unlock the full potential of this frame, and are there any particular combinations of wheels, groupsets, and cockpits that have proven to be particularly effective in terms of ride quality and overall performance?
Furthermore, how do you address the inevitable creaks and groans that seem to plague even the most meticulously assembled custom builds, and are there any particular techniques or products that can help to mitigate these issues and ensure a smooth, silent ride?
Lastly, for those of you whove opted for a 1x drivetrain, how do you find the gearing and range on the GT Grade Carbon Expert, particularly when tackling longer, more mountainous rides, and are there any particular cassette and chainring combinations that have proven to be particularly effective in terms of versatility and ease of use?