Rook Scout vs used gravel bike

[Carlo@]

As a solo rider (tall @ 1.96cm) not partaking in any events, neither group rides.

Would it be best to buy a Demo, Rook Scout or a used 2nd hand Gravel bike?

Budget is +- R20K

Note.Curently using my FS  Cannondale Scalpel SI as my main bike,yet with the 2.4" tyres and a 34T chain rings it definitely holds me back on the tar,hence the consideration for a gravel bike.

Looking at 1x setup.

 

Input is welcome

Edited March 16 by Carlo@

[ajnkzn]

If you aren’t racing might it not be better to squeeze on a 36t (if possible) and some Aspen STs and use what you have? 

I owned a Scalpel Si and it was a truly great bike as an all rounder 

 

Edited March 16 by ajnkzn

[nonky]

I looked at the Scout to use as a city commuter.  Chromoly frame with Alu fork, so it's "old tech"

Largest Rook size is 58cm, which may be an issue for you.  

I'd look at a used gravel bike or one on sale (XXL or similar)

[nonky]

Bike Addict has a new 2025 Titan Gravel Bike (XL) in your price range

 

https://bike-addict.co.za/collections/gravel-bikes/products/titan-racing-switch-sport-alloy-2025?variant=50414422688041

[Showtime]

Not sure what the range of your +- is but I have a Rora AL 1 and I'm super happy with it.

https://outercycles.com/products/rora-al2?variant=47222677340408

[guidodg]

put some Specialized Air Trak 2,2 tyres on your Scalpel and a 36T chainring...you will be amazed at how well it will ride gravel...

[Carlo@]

1 hour ago, guidodg said:

put some Specialized Air Trak 2,2 tyres on your Scalpel and a 36T chainring...you will be amazed at how well it will ride gravel...

Thank you for the input.I'll definitely look into it.

[Carlo@]

1 hour ago, ajnkzn said:

If you aren’t racing might it not be better to squeeze on a 36t (if possible) and some Aspen STs and use what you have? 

I owned a Scalpel Si and it was a truly great bike as an all rounder 

 

A 36T chaining is an inexpensive option and there's no harm in giving it a try.Changing the tyres makes sense...let me go and speak to my locals at Kroff

[Carlo@]

1 hour ago, nonky said:

I looked at the Scout to use as a city commuter.  Chromoly frame with Alu fork, so it's "old tech"

Largest Rook size is 58cm, which may be an issue for you.  

I'd look at a used gravel bike or one on sale (XXL or similar)

I've been looking on a daily basis for many weeks already and XXL seems to be very scarce,but will continue the search

Thank you for the input re the scout frame's sizing

[Dexter-morgan]

2 hours ago, Carlo@ said:

A 36T chaining is an inexpensive option and there's no harm in giving it a try.Changing the tyres makes sense...let me go and speak to my locals at Kroff

I have a 36T x 104 PCD, brand new that you can have for a good price if you are interested, brand new Dekas still in the box/packaging - DM me is you are interested, if you can use the Shimano BCD.

[Carlo@]

Will revert back and will be discussing this as a potential option, tomorrow with my local bike shop.

[BuffsVintageBikes]

The Avalanche is also a great option for not much more money.

[Michael S]

6 hours ago, Carlo@ said:

I've been looking on a daily basis for many weeks already and XXL seems to be very scarce,but will continue the search

Thank you for the input re the scout frame's sizing

I rode the large scout for a  while at 196cm and it was just too small for the multi day things I was looking to do. 

But really liked the bike and did a few 100milers etc. Without fault, only really became an issue when I started nitpicking at bike fit issues. Mine had a grx 11spd build, so can't comment on the ltwoo stuff. 

Plenty of options alloy 2nd hand options if you are patient, I would go for 2nd hand. Preferably a 12spd as you can put mtb gears on, this is rare as few are specd with 12spd from stock in alloy. 12 spd mtb gears on a drop bar bike makes for a super versatile machine on gravel and road. 

[Carlo@]

Morning Michael

Thank  you for taking the time and sharing your thoughts on the matter.I 've started with ordering a 36T chainring for the Scalpel and I'm  also looking into  the matter of changing the tyres to a more gravel orientated tyre.

 

Your thoughts re the 2nd hand option 'seems to be the general consensus between other DM'S received.The biggest issue is frame size and options available on the 2nd hand market.

Had it been a smaller frame since, it becomes so much easier and one is almost spoilt with choices.

 

Will look into the matter of the 12sp.

 

All the best