Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x Review
- Price: $3199
- Frame: Steel
- Wheels: 700c Aluminum
- Gear: 2×11
What we like about it: Lightweight and high pipe rigidity.
What we don’t like about it: The inability to get faster speeds compared to regular road bikes.
Rating (4.7/5)
Knolly Bikes is a Canadian bicycle brand founded by professional mountain bikers and mechanical engineers Noel Buckley in 2004. Since then, the company has built a reputation for crafting high-performance, durable, and innovative bicycles that excel in the most challenging terrain. One of Knolly’s latest products is the Cache series, a line of gravel bikes that combines the brand’s mountain bike DNA with the needs of gravel riders. The Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x is a standout model in this series. It features a steel frame and fork, Shimano GRX 600 groupset, and a 1x drivetrain optimized for gravel and adventure riding.
As a gravel bike, the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x is built to handle a range of terrains, from smooth dirt roads to technical singletrack. The bike’s design aims to provide a comfortable and stable ride, even on long rides or rough terrain. With generous tire clearance and a 1x drivetrain, the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x is a versatile and capable bike that’s the perfect choice for exploring new roads and trails. Whether you’re looking to tackle long-distance gravel races, explore new routes, or embark on multi-day adventures, the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x is up to the task.
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Riding Experience
As an avid bike traveler, I was excited to recently take my Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x on an adventure through the rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest. I had heard about the bike’s comfortable geometry and reliable performance, and I was eager to put it to the test. I easily booked accommodation on Skyscanner to ensure I can adequately prepare.
Road Riding
For the first part of my journey, I rode along a well-maintained road that wound through the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The steel frame and wide handlebars provided a stable and comfortable riding environment, allowing me to maintain a steady pace without feeling fatigued. The 1x drivetrain offered a wide range of gears, making it easy for me to tackle steep climbs and fast descents.
As I rode past picturesque vineyards and idyllic farmhouses, I couldn’t help but appreciate the smooth ride of the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x. Even at higher speeds, the bike felt stable and responsive, allowing me to navigate narrow turns and bumpy roads with ease. The bike’s hydraulic disc brakes also left a strong impression on me, providing reliable stopping power even on steep descents.
Gravel Riding
However, my journey quickly took a more challenging turn as I entered the Cascades and began encountering rugged gravel roads and steep inclines. It turned out that the comfortable geometry and wide tire clearance of my bike were invaluable as I navigated rock gardens and deep ruts. Despite the challenging terrain, I was able to maintain a respectable speed thanks to the bike’s responsive handling and efficient drivetrain.
As I climbed higher peaks, I was treated to magnificent views of snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes. The rugged terrain provided an exhilarating challenge, but the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x handled it with ease. With the bike’s comfortable geometry and stable ride, I was able to tackle steep climbs and fast descents without feeling fatigued or unbalanced.
Park Riding
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Crater Lake National Park, where I was able to ride the Rim Drive. This 33-mile loop circumnavigates the stunning lake and is hilly and winding, with steep inclines and hairpin turns. But the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x handled it all with ease. The bike’s responsive handling and comfortable geometry made it easy to navigate narrow turns and steep climbs, allowing me to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Overall, I was impressed with the performance of the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x on my journey through the Pacific Northwest. The bike’s comfortable geometry and stable ride made it a joy to ride on both flat roads and rugged terrain. Its reliable performance allowed me to confidently tackle steep climbs and fast descents. Whether you’re an experienced bike traveler or a gravel riding enthusiast, the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x is an excellent choice for your next adventure.
Specification
The component configuration listed above is specifically designed for high-performance adventure bikes that can handle various terrains and conditions. The carbon fiber fork is designed to accommodate wider tires and features adjustable offset and multiple mounting points for fenders, racks, and cages. The Shimano GRX kit is optimized for gravel riding, with a 1x drivetrain providing ample gears for climbing and descending, while the Shimano GRX 600 brakes provide powerful and reliable stopping power.
The Shimano RS370 wheels are durable and lightweight, improving stiffness and responsiveness. The Maxxis Ravager EXO tires provide excellent traction on loose terrain, while the Shimano SM-RT70 rotors offer stable braking performance. Overall, this component configuration is perfect for adventurous riders who need a bike that is performance-driven, reliable, and versatile.
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What do we like about it?
- Versatility: The carbon fiber fork and wide tire clearance make it ideal for a variety of riding styles and terrain.
- Lightweight: The carbon fork and Shimano RS370 wheelset help keep the bike’s overall weight down, making it easier to handle and transport.
- Responsive handling: The geometry and Easton handlebars provide the precise and responsive handling that is essential for navigating technical terrain.
- Comfort: The carbon fiber fork and wide tires absorb shock and vibration, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough roads.
- Efficient drivetrain: Shimano GRX groups and 1x drivetrain provide an efficient power drivetrain and a wide range of gears to handle steep climbs and fast descents.
- Powerful braking system: Shimano GRX 600 brakes provide reliable and powerful braking power to ensure rider safety and control on steep downhill trails.
- Durability: The carbon fork, Shimano RS370 wheelset, and Shimano GRX groupset are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the bike.
- Adjustable Fork Offset: Adjustable fork offset allows the rider to fine-tune the bike’s handling to their preference and riding style.
- Multiple mounting options: Triple fender/frame/cage mounts and M6 front crown mounts provide ample mounting options for accessories and gear, making it a versatile choice for touring and commuting.
What don’t we like about it?
- Speed: You can’t get faster speed compared to normal road bikes.
FAQs
- Is this bike suitable for long-distance riding?
Yes, the bike’s comfortable geometry and suspension fork make it ideal for long rides.
- Can I use this bike for on-road and off-road riding?
No problem. The bike is versatile and can handle both on- and off-road terrain.
- Is this bike’s hydraulic disc brake system easy to maintain?
Yes, the Shimano New GRX Gravel hydraulic disc brakes are easy to maintain and provide excellent braking power and control.
- Does the bicycle include tubeless tires?
Yes, KENDA K1226 Alluvium Pro tubeless tires are included in the bike.
- Is this bike easy to assemble?
This bike is partially assembled. Although some basic mechanical knowledge is recommended to assemble it, the process is simple and can be done with basic tools. Alternatively, for best performance, the bike can be assembled by a professional bike mechanic.
Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x Specs
Build
| Fork | Carbon Adventure 700x55c / 650b x 2.4, Offset: 47mm / 52mm – Adjustable, triple fender/rack/cage mounts, M6 front of crown mount, internal dynamo routing , 398 axle to crown, 12x100mm |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano 68mm BSA |
| Headset | FSA Orbit ZS44/56 |
| Stem | Easton EA50 AX 31.8 (60-80cm) |
| Handlebar | Easton EA50 AX 31.8 (42-46cm) |
| Saddle | SDG Duster P |
| Seatpost | RaceFace Ride XC 31.6x375mm |
| Grips | Easton Bar Tape Pinline Logo Black |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano GRX 812 1x11spd, Shadow Plus |
| Front Derailleur | n/a |
| Crank | Shimano GRX 600 40T, 170mm |
| Shifters | Shimano GRX 600 Flat Mount Brakes |
| Cassette | Shimano Deore M5100 11spd, 11-42T |
| Chain | Shimano HG601 11spd |
| Brakes | Shimano GRX 600 |
Wheels
| Rims | Shimano RS370 24h, 12×100 / 12×142 |
| Tires | Maxxis Ravager EXO 700x40c |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano SM-RT70 160/160mm (Centerlock) |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click View | Drivetrain | Frame material | Front Fork | Groupset |
| Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless | Click View | 1×11 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800, GRX 600 |
| Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 L | Click View | 2×11 | Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800, GRX 600 |
| Jamis RENEGADE C1 | Click View | 2×11 | Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800 |
| Marin Gestalt XR | Click View | 1×11 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | GRX 600,FSA |
Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x vs Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless
The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless features an aluminum frame and a carbon fiber fork, making it lightweight and responsive. It comes equipped with 45C tires, slightly narrower than the 50C tires of the Knolly Cache Adventure, but still providing ample traction and comfort on rough terrain. Additionally, this bike is equipped with a dropper post. It allows riders to adjust their saddle height on-the-fly, enhancing their control and stability on steep descents.
On the other hand, the Knolly Cache Adventure has a steel frame and carbon fiber fork, providing a more comfortable and smooth ride quality. The wider 50C tires offer more traction and comfort on rough terrain. Although the bike does not have a dropper post, it offers multiple mounts for fenders, racks, and cages, making it a versatile option for travel, commuting, and gravel riding. Overall, both bikes are great choices for gravel riding. The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless is a lighter and more responsive option, while the Knolly Cache Adventure prioritizes comfort and versatility.
Learn More: Is Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 A Good Bike? [Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review]
Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x vs Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 L
The Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 L features a carbon fiber frame and fork, making it lightweight and highly responsive. Its 2×11 speed drivetrain provides a wider range of gears for tackling steep climbs and quick descents. The bike also comes with 45C tires, slightly narrower than the 50C tires on the Knolly Cache Adventure, but still providing excellent traction and comfort on rough terrain. Additionally, the bike has integrated seat clamp and dropper post compatibility. It allows riders to adjust their saddle height on the fly for improved control and stability on steep descents.
On the other hand, the Knolly Cache Adventure has a steel frame and carbon fiber fork, providing a more comfortable and smooth ride quality. The wider 50C tires offer greater traction and comfort on rough terrain. And the bike offers multiple mounting options for fenders, racks, and cages, making it a versatile choice for travel, commuting, and gravel riding. Overall, both bikes offer excellent performance and versatility. The Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 L is a more expensive and feature-rich option, while the Knolly Cache Adventure prioritizes comfort and versatility.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Topstone 3 A Good Bike? [2022 Cannondale Topstone 3 Review]
Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x vs Jamis RENEGADE C1
The Jamis RENEGADE C1 is built around a carbon frame and fork, which makes it a lightweight and responsive choice for gravel riding. The bike is equipped with 45C tires and a Shimano GRX 800 2×11-speed gearbox that offers a variety of gearing to handle steep hills and fast descents. The bike is also equipped with hydraulic disc brakes for strong and reliable braking power.
On the other hand, the Knolly Cache Adventure has a steel frame and carbon fork for a more comfortable and smooth ride quality. The bike is equipped with a Shimano GRX 800 rear chainstay and Shimano GRX 600 1×11 speed drivetrain, providing plenty of gearing to tackle all terrains. The wider 50C tires provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrain, and the bike is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes for reliable braking power.
Learn More: Is Jamis RENEGADE S3 Worth Buying?- [Jamis RENEGADE S3 Review]
Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x vs Marin Gestalt XR
The Marin Gestalt XR is a lightweight and responsive option for gravel riding, thanks to its aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork. It comes equipped with a Shimano GRX 600 1×11-speed drivetrain, providing ample gearing for tackling various terrains. Additionally, this bike features a dropper post. It allows riders to adjust their saddle height on the fly for improved control and stability on steep descents. It also has hydraulic disc brakes for reliable and powerful stopping power.
On the other hand, the Knolly Cache Adventure boasts a steel frame and carbon fiber fork, offering a more comfortable and smooth riding experience. It comes with a Shimano GRX 800 rear derailleur and Shimano GRX 600 1×11-speed drivetrain, providing plenty of gear options for steep climbs and fast descents. The wider 50C tires provide excellent traction and stability on rugged terrain, and the bike is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power. Overall, both bikes offer outstanding performance and functionality. The Marin Gestalt XR is a more affordable option with a dropper post, while the Knolly Cache Adventure prioritizes comfort and versatility.
Learn More: Is Marin DSX 2 Worth Buying? [Marin DSX 2 Review]
Summary
Above is our test of the Knolly Cache Steel Shimano GRX 600 1x. It’s a rare steel-frame gravel bike with stable quality and high durability at a lower price compared to big-name brands. If you’re interested in more well-known brand bikes, you can check out our other review articles.
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