KHS GRIT 110 Review
- Price: $1299
- Frame: Aluminum
- Wheels: 700c Aluminum
- Gear: 2×8
What we like about it: Affordable, mechanical disc brakes.
What we don’t like about it: Shimano shifting systems don’t include a chainring.
Rating (4.6/5)
KHS is a Taiwanese brand that has been producing high-quality bicycles for over 50 years. Since its establishment in 1974, they have continuously innovated and improved its designs to meet the needs of cyclists at all levels. One of their latest developments is the GRIT series, which is designed for riders seeking adventure beyond asphalt roads. The GRIT series combines durability, versatility, and affordability, creating a range of bicycles that can easily handle any terrain.
The KHS GRIT 110 is a perfect example of the capabilities of the GRIT series. It is a lightweight aluminum gravel bike equipped with a carbon fiber fork and mechanical disc brakes, making it the perfect choice for riders seeking adventure on challenging terrain. With its 2×8 Claris drivetrain, it is suitable for intermediate riders looking to elevate their cycling game. The bike’s versatility allows it to handle everything from smooth asphalt roads to rocky trails, making it an excellent choice for exploring new vistas. Whether you’re commuting, exploring the countryside, or participating in a gravel race, the KHS GRIT 110 is a reliable and affordable choice that won’t disappoint.
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Riding Experience
As a serious rider, I recently had the opportunity to ride the KHS GRIT 110 on both road and gravel terrain. Another thing that needs to be prepared in advance is booking accommodation. This time, I still booked accommodation on Skyscanner, hoping for a good rest. The ride began with a typical road ride, where I tested the bike’s speed and handling. The route was a 50-mile loop that traversed the rolling hills of the Santa Monica Mountains in California. The GRIT 110’s lightweight aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork made it easy to accelerate on flat terrain and climb hills with ease. The bike’s geometry felt comfortable and natural, allowing me to settle into a steady rhythm and maintain my speed throughout the ride.
Gravel Riding
As the route progressed, I encountered some gravel sections, which were part of a local gravel race I had signed up for. The race was a 60-mile event that took riders through the rugged backcountry of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The terrain was challenging, with steep climbs, loose gravel, and rocky descents. However, the KHS GRIT 110 proved capable of handling these harsh conditions. The bike’s mechanical disc brakes provided excellent stopping power, even on the steepest descents. And the wider 700c wheels provided stable handling on loose gravel.
As I made my way through the race, I noticed how satisfied I was with the GRIT 110’s comfortable geometry. The bike’s relaxed head angle and longer wheelbase helped absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride. Even on the roughest parts of the racecourse, I didn’t have to worry too much. And the 2×8 Claris drivetrain was sufficient for the race’s demands, allowing me to shift smoothly and quickly.
Climbing Experience
The most challenging part of the race was a steep climb that included some loose gravel and rocky sections. However, the GRIT 110’s lightweight frame and efficient drivetrain made it easy for me to climb with ease. The bike’s comfortable geometry made it easy for me to balance and handle the challenging terrain. When I reached the top of the hill, I felt a real sense of accomplishment. I knew that the KHS GRIT 110 played a crucial role in my success.
As the race neared its end, I crossed the finish line feeling excited and fulfilled. The KHS GRIT 110 proved to be a reliable and capable gravel bike that is perfect for riders looking to challenge themselves on tough terrain. The bike’s comfortable geometry, efficient drivetrain, and stable wheels all contributed to a successful and enjoyable ride.
In summary, the KHS GRIT 110 is a versatile and capable gravel bike that can handle anything from flat roads to rugged off-road terrain. Whether you’re a serious rider or a weekend warrior, this bike is an excellent choice for exploring new vistas and pushing your limits. With its lightweight aluminum frame, carbon fiber fork, and mechanical disc brakes, the GRIT 110 is a reliable and affordable choice that won’t disappoint. So, if you’re looking for a gravel bike that can take you anywhere, be sure to check out the KHS GRIT 110.
Specification
The KHS GRIT 220 features a sturdy 6061 aluminum double-butted frame with internal cable routing designed for durability and performance on rugged terrain. The carbon fiber disc fork comes with an aluminum steerer and 12mm thru-axle for a smooth ride. Weinmann U28 TL rims paired with 700x40c Kenda K1152 Flintridge tires provide excellent traction and control on rough and smooth surfaces.
The Shimano Claris 2×8-speed drivetrain with forged aluminum cranks and 48/32T chainrings delivers smooth and efficient riding in a wide range of gears. Tektro dual piston mechanical disc brakes with a flat mount design and 160mm rotors provide reliable braking capability in all weather conditions. Overall, the KHS GRIT 220 is configured to provide a comprehensive package for gravel riding, offering a comfortable and stable ride while maintaining efficient power transfer and reliable braking.
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What do we like about it?
- Durable and lightweight aluminum frame designed for rugged terrain.
- Carbon fiber fork with aluminum steering and 12mm thru-axle for a smooth ride.
- The tubeless Weinmann U28 TL rims with 700x40c Kenda K1152 Flintridge tires provide excellent traction and control on all surfaces.
- Shimano Claris 2×8 speed shifters with forged aluminum cranksets and 48/32T chainrings offer a wide range of gears for any terrain.
- Efficient and smooth shifting with the Shimano Claris STI shifter.
- Tektro dual piston mechanical disc brakes with a flat mount design and 160 mm rotor for reliable braking in all weather conditions.
- Promax aluminum drop handlebars with an adventurous compact flex for comfortable and natural hand placement.
- KHS sport road bike saddle, very comfortable on long rides.
- Aluminum micro-adjustable seat tube, easy to adjust the seat height.
- Versatile and comprehensive gravel riding package for entry and intermediate-level riders.
What don’t we like about it?
- Shimano shifting systems do not include a chainring.
FAQs
- Is the KHS GRIT 220 suitable for beginners?
Yes. It’s for beginners looking to dip their toes into gravel riding. Its durable aluminum frame, efficient drivetrain, and reliable braking system make it the perfect choice for riders who want to explore rugged terrain.
- Can I upgrade to the KHS GRIT 220 group?
Yes. If you want to improve the performance of your bike, you can upgrade to the KHS GRIT 220 group. This frame is compatible with a range of groupsets including Shimano GRX and SRAM Apex.
- Is the KHS GRIT 220 suitable for long–distance riding?
Yes, it’s good for long rides. That’s thanks to its comfortable geometry, sporty road seat, and efficient drivetrain. It is designed to provide comfort and stability on long rides.
- Is the KHS GRIT 220 suitable for competition?
Yes, this bike is suitable for racing, especially gravel racing. Its lightweight aluminum frame, efficient drivetrain, and reliable braking system make it the perfect choice for riders who want to compete in gravel races.
KHS GRIT 110 Specs
Build
| Frame | 6061 Aluminum Double Butted w/Disc Mounts and Internal Cable Routing, 1.5 Taper, Flat Mount Disc Color: Gray |
| Fork | Carbon Disc w/Aluminum Steerer, 1.5 Taper, Flat Mount, 12mm Thru-Axle |
| Bottom Bracket | FSA Cartridge Bearing |
| Headset | FSA Orbit Integrated Sealed ACB, 1-1/8″~1.5″ |
| Stem | Promax Aluminum 3D Forged, Threadless 4-bolt, 31.8mm, XS:80mm, S:90mm, M-L:100mm |
| Handlebar | Promax Aluminum Drop, Adventure Compact Bend, 31.8mm, XS:40cm, S-M:42cm, L:44cm |
| Saddle | KHS Sport Road |
| Seatpost | Aluminum Micro-Adjust, 27.2mm |
| Pedals | n/a |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Claris RD-R2000GS |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Claris FD-R2000, 31.8mm |
| Crank | Aluminum Forged 3-pc., 48/32T Compact, XS:165, S-M:170, L:175 |
| Shifters | Shimano Claris STI, ST-R2000 |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG31, 11-34T, 8-Speed |
| Chain | KMC Z8.3 |
| Brakes | Tektro MD-C550, Dual Piston, Flat Mount, Road Mechanical Disc, 160mm Rotors |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Claris STI |
Wheels
| Rims | Weinmann U28 TL, Disc Double Wall, Tubeless-Ready |
| Spokes | 14G Stainless Black, 32×32 |
| Front Hub | Formula Aluminum Disc, 12mm Thru-Axle |
| Rear Hub | Formula Aluminum Disc QR, Cassette |
| Tires | Kenda K1152 Flintridge, 700 x 40c, 60TPI, Tubeless-Ready |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Drivetrain | Frame material | Front Fork | Groupset |
| Jamis RENEGADE A1 | Click View | 2×8 | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy | Shimano Claris, FSA |
| Specialized Diverge E5 | Click View | 2×10 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | Shimano GRX 400, GRX 600 |
| Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b | Click View | 2×9 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | Sora, Shimano |
| Canyon Grail 6 | Click View | 2×10 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | Shimano GRX 400, GRX 600 |
KHS GRIT 110 vs Jamis RENEGADE A1
After comparing the two bikes, it is clear that the Jamis RENEGADE A1 has a decent price. However, the lower price comes with a trade-off of a downgrade from a carbon fiber fork to an aluminum alloy fork. In other aspects of the configuration, it is almost identical, using mechanical disc brakes and Shimano’s Claris drivetrain. However, it is worth mentioning that the KHS GRIT 110 uses a complete kit, including the Claris chainring, while the Jamis RENEGADE A1 uses a cheaper FSA chainring.
Both bikes have a 16-speed drivetrain, so the choice depends on your preferences. In terms of actual riding experience, I don’t think there is a significant difference.
Learn More: Is Jamis RENEGADE S3 Worth Buying?- [Jamis RENEGADE S3 Review]
KHS GRIT 110 vs Specialized Diverge E5
The Specialized Diverge E5 has a very high price, but after comparison, I didn’t see a significant difference. It has an aluminum frame, carbon fiber fork, and aluminum 700c wheels, so there is not much difference in the overall riding experience.
However, there are still some minor differences, such as the use of hydraulic disc brakes with better braking performance in the Specialized Diverge E5, while the KHS GRIT 110 uses mechanical disc brakes. Both have good braking performance, but the former’s hydraulic disc brakes have a better feel and braking effect.
Learn More: Is Specialized Diverge Comp E5 Worth Buying? [Specialized Diverge Comp E5 Review]
KHS GRIT 110 vs Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b
Both bikes have aluminum frames and carbon fiber forks. The KHS GRIT 220 has a larger 700c wheelset, while the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b uses a smaller 650b wheelset. The KHS GRIT 220 has a 1.5-tapered head tube, while the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b uses a straight head tube.
The Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b has a Shimano Sora 2×9 drivetrain with 18-speed shifting, while the KHS GRIT 220 has a Shimano Claris 2×8 drivetrain with 16-speed shifting. While the KHS GRIT 220 has a Shimano Claris 2×8 drivetrain with 16-speed shifting. The Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b has a compact crankset while the KHS GRIT 220 has a 48/32T chainring setup. Both bikes use mechanical disc brakes. the KHS GRIT 220 uses flat brakes, while the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b uses rear brakes.
The KHS GRIT 220 has a larger 700c wheelset that is better suited for faster and smoother terrain. The Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b, on the other hand, uses a smaller 650b wheelset that is better suited for rougher and more technical terrain. Ultimately, both bikes are excellent choices for off-road use, and the choice between them depends on the rider’s personal preferences and intended use.
Learn More: Is Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Worth Buying? [Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Review]
KHS GRIT 110 vs Canyon Grail 6
Canyon Grail 6 features higher-end Shimano GRX400 and GRX600 components designed specifically for gravel bikes, while KHS GRIT 220 uses Shimano Claris components.
Canyon Grail 6 uses hydraulic disc brakes which offer better braking power and modulation compared to the mechanical disc brakes on KHS GRIT 220. Both bikes have aluminum wheelsets, but Canyon Grail 6 uses slightly wider rims that provide better stability and traction on rough terrain.
The Canyon Grail 6 is priced higher than the KHS GRIT 220, reflecting its higher-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. Overall, the Canyon Grail 6 is designed for the more serious gravel rider who wants higher-end components and better braking performance. the Shimano GRX components and hydraulic disc brakes provide a more precise and efficient ride. On the other hand, the KHS GRIT 220 is a more affordable option for riders who are just starting to explore gravel riding or for those on a budget. While it may not have the performance level of the Canyon Grail 6, the KHS GRIT 220 is still a reliable and capable gravel bike that can handle a variety of terrain. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the rider’s personal preferences and intended use.
Learn More: Is Canyon Grail 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Grail 7 Review]
Summary
Above is our test of the KHS GRIT 110. It’s an affordable gravel road bike with a lightweight aluminum frame paired with a carbon fiber fork for overall comfort and lightness. If you need a faster high-end ride quality, check out our higher-end bike review.
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