Triaero

Introduction

Carbon fiber gravel bike frames have become increasingly popular among cycling enthusiasts due to their lightweight construction, durability, and versatility. In this article, we will compare two models from the ICAN brand, the Graro and X-Gravel 2, focusing on their shared characteristics and distinct differences.

Shared Characteristics

1. Gravel Frame Design:
The Graro and X-Gravel 2 are purpose-built for gravel riding and deliver optimal performance on various terrains. Their lightweight frame provides agility and speed while offering excellent shock absorption to ensure a smooth ride. Whether you're looking to tackle challenging terrain or simply cruise around town, they are the perfect choices. 

2. Internal Cable Routing:
The frames incorporate internal cable routing.
Internal cable routing is a design feature that has been incorporated into bicycle frames that has many benefits. First and foremost, it enhances the bike's overall appearance by hiding unsightly cables and creating a clean, streamlined look. Additionally, it protects the cables from external elements such as dirt, mud, and water, which can cause them to become damaged over time and affect the bike's performance. Furthermore, internal cable routing ensures smooth shifting and braking by reducing friction and improving cable tension. This results in more precise and responsive gear changes and more efficient stopping power, making for a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.

3. Max Tire Width of 45mm:
Both frames can fit tires up to 45mm wide.
With wider tires, riders can experience enhanced stability and control, reducing the risk of slipping or falling off their bike. This can make their rides more enjoyable and safer, allowing them to confidently explore new terrains. Additionally, wider tires can provide better traction and comfort, making them a popular choice for bike enthusiasts who prioritize performance and comfort.

4. Consistent Sizing:
The Graro and X-Gravel 2 are available in the same range of sizes, allowing riders to select the ideal fit for their body proportions.
The sizes available for both models range from 49cm to 58cm, ensuring that riders of all heights and body types can find the perfect fit. This is great news for riders who prioritize comfort and performance, as finding the right bike size is crucial for optimal performance and injury prevention. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, the Graro and X-Gravel 2 are excellent choices for your next bike purchase.

5. HBG01 Handlebar Compatibility:
Both frames are designed to seamlessly integrate with the HBG01 handlebar, providing riders with a comfortable and ergonomic riding position.
The frames are crafted with precision to offer riders a comfortable and ergonomic riding position, reducing the chances of any discomfort or strain during long rides. The seamless integration of the frames with the handlebar ensures enhanced control and stability, allowing riders to enjoy a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Whether you're a professional rider or a casual cyclist, these frames are sure to give you the edge you need to take on any challenge on the road.

6. Multiple Mounting Points:
These frames feature multiple mounting points, facilitating the attachment of accessories such as racks, fenders, and water bottle cages, enhancing the bike's versatility.
Whether you're commuting to work, going on a long-distance ride, or just going for a leisurely cruise, you can easily attach the accessories you need to make your ride comfortable and convenient. With these frames, you can easily switch between different setups depending on your needs, making your bike a truly versatile and adaptable mode of transportation.

7. Mechanical and DI2 Compatibility:
Both frames can be equipped with either mechanical or electronic DI2 drivetrain systems, catering to riders' diverse preferences.
The mechanical drivetrain system is known for its reliability and durability, while the electronic DI2 system offers a more precise and effortless shifting experience. Both systems have their own set of advantages, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

8. Customizable Paint Options:
ICAN offers personalized paint customization for both frames, enabling riders to express their individuality and style.
ICAN is a reputable company that offers personalized paint customization. This service allows riders to express their individuality and style by choosing from a wide range of colors and designs. The process is simple and straightforward - after selecting the desired color or design, the ICAN team will work closely with the rider to ensure that the finished product meets their specifications. The end result is a unique and personalized bike that reflects the rider's personality and preferences. Whether it's a bold and vibrant color or a subtle and understated design, ICAN's paint customization service is the perfect way to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.

Distinct Differences

1. Bottom Bracket (BB):
The Graro employs the T47 bottom bracket standard, while the X-Gravel 2 utilizes the BSA standard, influencing compatibility with different cranksets and bearings.
The Graro employs the T47 bottom bracket standard, which is a relatively new standard that is gaining popularity due to its compatibility with different cranksets and bearings. On the other hand, the X-Gravel 2 utilizes the BSA standard, which is a more traditional standard that has been in use for many years. While both standards have their advantages and disadvantages, the choice of which one to use ultimately comes down to personal preference and compatibility with other components of the bike. It's worth noting that the choice of bottom bracket standard can also affect the overall weight, stiffness, and durability of the bike, so it's important to choose wisely based on your specific needs and preferences.

2. UCI Certification:
The Graro frame holds UCI certification, indicating compliance with regulations set by the Union Cycliste Internationale, while the X-Gravel 2 lacks this certification.
The UCI certification is an important regulatory requirement for competitive cycling events. It ensures that all participating bicycles meet the safety and performance standards set by the Union Cycliste Internationale. The Graro frame has received this certification, which means that it has passed a series of rigorous tests and meets all the necessary requirements for competitive racing.
On the other hand, the X-Gravel 2 frame does not have the UCI certification. This does not necessarily mean that it is not a high-quality frame, but it does indicate that it may not meet the strict requirements of competitive cycling events. It is worth noting that many cyclists do not require UCI-certified bicycles for their everyday riding needs, but for those who participate in competitive events, it is an important consideration.
In summary, if you are a competitive cyclist or plan to participate in any UCI-sanctioned events, the Graro frame with its UCI certification would be a better choice. However, if you are a recreational cyclist who prioritizes comfort and versatility over competitive performance, the X-Gravel 2 frame may still be a great option for you.

3. Frame Tube Shapes:
The Graro frame boasts a sleek and streamlined design, with a focus on reducing drag and maximizing speed. Its narrow profile and sharp angles allow for easy maneuverability.
In contrast, the X-Gravel 2 frame is designed to prioritize lightweight construction and emphasize agility and responsiveness.

4. UDH Compatibility:
The Graro frame is UDH compatible, simplifying derailleur adjustments and replacements, while the X-Gravel 2 does not feature this compatibility.
The Graro frame is designed with UDH compatibility in mind, which stands for "Universal Derailleur Hanger". This means that the frame is equipped with a standard derailleur hanger that is common across many bike models and brands. This makes it much easier to adjust or replace the derailleur on the Graro frame, as you don't have to worry about finding a specific hanger that fits the frame.
On the other hand, the X-Gravel 2 doesn't feature this compatibility, which means that it requires a specific derailleur hanger that is designed to fit its frame. This can make it more difficult to find replacement parts or make adjustments to the derailleur, as you need to ensure that you have the correct hanger that fits the frame.
Overall, the UDH compatibility of the Graro frame makes it a more versatile and convenient option for cyclists who want to have more flexibility in terms of derailleur adjustments and replacements.

5. Top Tube Screws:
The Graro frame incorporates embedded top tube screws, contributing to a cleaner and more streamlined appearance compared to exposed screws on the X-Gravel 2.
The Graro frame is designed to provide a more polished look compared to the X-Gravel 2. The embedded top tube screws on the Graro contribute to a cleaner and more streamlined appearance, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also improves the aerodynamics of the bike. In contrast, the X-Gravel 2 features exposed top tube screws, which can be a bit of an eyesore for some cyclists. However, both of them are excellent choices for gravel riding and offer exceptional performance and durability.

6. Seatpost Clamp:
The Graro frame utilizes a hidden seatpost clamp design, enhancing its sleek and minimalist aesthetic.
The Graro frame is a true masterpiece, thanks to its hidden seatpost clamp design that adds to its sleek and minimalist aesthetic. Unlike traditional seatpost clamps that protrude from the frame and create an unsightly bulge, this unique design effectively hides the clamp within the frame, providing a clean and streamlined look.
This innovative design is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, as it helps to reduce drag and improve the overall aerodynamics of the bike. Additionally, the hidden clamp design enhances the frame's structural integrity, making it sturdier and more durable.
Overall, the Graro frame is a perfect choice for cyclists who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and desire a bike that looks as good as it performs.

7. Carbon Fiber Material:
The Graro frame employs T1000 carbon fiber in critical areas, enhancing stiffness and strength, whereas the X-Gravel 2 utilizes T700 and T800 carbon fiber.
The Graro frame is designed to provide riders with a stiff and strong ride, thanks to the use of T1000 carbon fiber in critical areas. This material has excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, which means it is lightweight yet very strong. The Graro frame is ideal for riders who want to have a responsive and efficient ride, whether on the road or on the trails.
On the other hand, the X-Gravel 2 frame utilizes a combination of T700 and T800 carbon fiber, which offers a great balance between stiffness, strength, and weight. The X-Gravel 2 is perfect for riders who want a lightweight yet durable frame that can handle rough terrain and long rides. This frame is designed to provide riders with a comfortable and stable ride, making it ideal for gravel racing, bikepacking, and touring.

8. Graro-Specific Offer:
Purchasing the Graro frame includes a complimentary DI2-specific battery holder, catering to riders who prefer electronic shifting systems.
One of the unique features of the Graro frame is that it comes with a complimentary DI2-specific battery holder. This feature is particularly useful for riders who prefer electronic shifting systems, as it allows them to easily and securely mount their battery to the frame, without the need for any additional accessories.
The battery holder is designed to be compatible with a range of different electronic shifting systems, including Shimano's popular DI2 system. It is made from high-quality materials that are both lightweight and durable, ensuring that it will provide reliable and long-lasting performance.

Conclusion

The ICAN Graro and X-Gravel 2 frames offer exceptional gravel riding performance. While they share common features such as gravel-specific design, internal cable routing, wide tire compatibility, and customization options, they differ in bottom bracket standards, UCI certification, frame tube shapes, UDH compatibility, top tube screws, seatpost clamp design, carbon fiber material, and specific offers. Understanding these distinctions enables riders to make an informed decision based on their individual preferences and riding style, ultimately enhancing their gravel riding experience.