2024 KHS GRIT 440 Review
- Price: $3499
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Wheels: 700c Aluminum
- Gear: 2×11
What we like about it: Top quality gravel road bike.
What we don’t like about it: The price is not accessible to all.
Rating (4.8/5)
KHS Bicycle Company has been in the business of manufacturing high-quality bicycles for over 45 years. The company is dedicated to producing bikes that meet the needs of all types of bike enthusiasts, from beginners to professional athletes. In recent years, KHS has expanded its bicycle product line to include the GRIT series, a gravel bike series designed for riders who enjoy exploring off-road terrain. The KHS GRIT series utilizes the latest technology and materials, such as carbon fiber frames and hydraulic disc brakes, to provide the ultimate riding experience.
The KHS GRIT 440 is a versatile gravel bike that can handle various terrains and riding styles. Whether you’re riding on rough gravel roads, rocky trails, or even sidewalks, this bike can handle it all. The lightweight aluminum frame is durable and provides excellent control. The suspension fork absorbs shocks and vibrations to provide a smooth ride. The 27.5-inch wheels and hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent traction and stopping power, allowing you to ride with confidence in any situation. With the Shimano Deore 1×10 speed system, the KHS GRIT 440 provides a wide range of gears for climbing and traversing flat sections. Overall, the KHS GRIT 440 is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys exploring off-road terrain and wants a reliable and versatile gravel bike.
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Riding Experience
As a professional gravel road bike racer, I have ridden many bikes in my career, but none have impressed me as much as the KHS GRIT 440. Recently, I raced the Dirty Kanza 200. This is a grueling gravel race in the Flint Hills of Kansas, USA. The race is 200 miles long and is known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. I was excited to test the KHS GRIT 440 and see how it would perform in such challenging conditions. Before the race started, I also booked accommodation on Skyscanner so I could rest well and be prepared for the biking race the next day.
The first part of the race was on paved roads and I quickly noticed how comfortable the geometry of the KHS GRIT 440 was. The bike felt smooth and stable, even at high speeds. the Shimano GRX 800 package shifted smoothly and the hydraulic disc brakes provided excellent stopping power when needed. I was able to maintain a steady speed, averaging around 25 mph, and felt confident in the bike’s ability to handle speed.
Once we hit the gravel road, however, things quickly changed. The terrain was rugged and unpredictable, with loose gravel, sharp rocks, and steep inclines. But the KHS GRIT 440 was up to the challenge. The carbon frame provided good damping, and the 27.5-inch wheels and tubeless tires provided excellent traction on loose gravel. the Shimano GRX 600 group gave me the flexibility to shift into the right gear on a variety of terrain. Hydraulic disc brakes allow me to brake confidently on steep downhill trails.
Rough Terrain
As I rode on the hills of the gravel road and the bumpy sections, I felt a newfound sense of control and power. The bike felt light and nimble. Even on the most challenging sections, I could maintain my speed. The geometry of the bike allowed me to maintain a comfortable position, reducing fatigue and allowing me to stay focused on the race.
The race was tough, and I faced many challenges along the way. But the KHS GRIT 440 never let me down. It was the perfect bike for the Dirty Kanza 200 race, allowing me to push my limits and achieve my best performance. In the end, I completed the race. I know that the KHS GRIT 440 played a crucial role in my success.
Overall, the KHS GRIT 440 is an outstanding gravel bike designed for performance and comfort. The lightweight carbon fiber frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and hydraulic disc brakes make it the perfect bike for gravel races like the Dirty Kanza 200. Its comfortable geometry allows it to stay stable even at high speeds, and its Shimano GRX group provides excellent shifting and flexibility on the most challenging terrain. If you’re a serious gravel road cyclist, the KHS GRIT 440 is a bike you should consider.
Specification
The KHS full carbon frame is the core of this bike, made from T700 MSD high-modulus carbon for maximum strength and durability. It has a BB86/BB92 press-fit bottom bracket, providing a solid foundation for the crankset and delivering stable and responsive riding.
The drivetrain is composed of Shimano GRX Gravel components, including the RD-RX810 rear derailleur, FD-RX810 front derailleur, and ST-RX600 hydraulic shifters. The FSA Gossamer Pro Compact crankset has a 48/32T chainring setup, making it an ideal choice for steep climbs. The hydraulic disc brake system uses Shimano New GRX Gravel BR-RX400 calipers and 160mm Shimano Freeza rotors, providing excellent braking power and control on any terrain.
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What do we like about it?
- Lightweight: The carbon fiber frame and fork make this bike lightweight and easy to handle, giving the rider an edge in the race.
- Rugged: The T700 MSD high-modulus carbon material used in the frame and fork is rugged and durable, ensuring the bike can withstand rough terrain.
- Comfort: The geometry, handlebars, and saddle are designed for comfort, reducing rider fatigue during long rides.
- Versatility: The bike can handle both on- and off-road terrain, making it a versatile choice for different types of riding.
- Smooth ride: Tubeless tires provide a smooth ride, absorbing shock and vibration.
- GREAT BRAKING SYSTEM: Shimano New GRX Gravel hydraulic disc braking system provides excellent braking power and control in any terrain.
- Wide Gear Range: The Shimano GRX Gravel drivetrain offers a wide range of gears, making it easy to tackle steep hills and flat sections.
- Tubeless Ready: The bike’s wheelset is tubeless, reducing the risk of flats and providing a smoother ride.
- Efficient power transfer: The FSA Gossamer Pro Compact crankset is designed for efficient power transfer, allowing the rider to generate more speed and power.
- HIGH–QUALITY COMPONENTS: This bike features high-quality components from leading brands such as Shimano, FSA, and WTB to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
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?
Yup, this 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?
The bike is partially assembled and 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.
KHS GRIT 440 Specs
Build
| Frame | KHS Full Carbon GG Design, T700 MSD High Modulus Carbon, 1.5 Taper, 12mm Thru-axle, Flat Mount Disc BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Color: Metallic Red |
| Fork | Full T700 MSD Carbon Disc, 1.5 Taper, 12 x 100mm Thru Axle, Flat Mount, 12mm Thru-axle |
| Bottom Bracket | FSA BB386 EVO Threaded |
| Headset | FSA Orbit C40-ACB, N.42/ACB, Angular Contact Bearings, 1-1/8″~1.5″ Integrated Aluminum Cap |
| Stem | FSA Aluminum 3D Forged, Threadless 4-bolt, 31.8mm, S:90mm, M-M/L:100mm, L:110mm |
| Handlebar | FSA Adventure Compact, Double Butted, Ergonomic, 31.8mm, S:40cm, M-M/L:42cm, L:44cm |
| Saddle | KHS Sport Road |
| Seatpost | Q2 Carbon, 27.2mm, 350mm |
| Pedals | n/a |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano GRX Gravel RD-RX810 |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano GRX Gravel, FD-RX810 |
| Crank | FSA Gossamer Pro Compact, 2-pc Forged, BB386, 48/32T, S;170, M-M/L: 172.5, L:175 |
| Shifters | Shimano GRX Gravel ST-RX600, Hydraulic |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG700, 11-34T, 11-Speed |
| Chain | KMC X11EL w/MissingLink |
| Brakes | Shimano New GRX Gravel, BR-RX400 Hydraulic Disc, Flat Mount w/160mm Shimano Freeza Rotors SM-RT800 |
| Brake Levers | Shimano New GRX Gravel ST-RX600 Hydraulic |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB ST-I25 TCS, Disc, Double Wall, 32H, Tubeless-Ready |
| Spokes | 14G Stainless Black, 32×32 w/Aluminum Nipples |
| Front Hub | Formula CL-712, S.B. Super Light Disc, 12mm x 100mm, CenterLock, QR |
| Rear Hub | Formula RXC-142S, Sealed Bearing Super Light, Cassette, 12x142mm Thru-axle, CenterLock, QR |
| Tires | Kenda K1226 Alluvium Pro, 700 x 40c, 120TPI, GCT, Folding, Tubeless-Ready |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Drivetrain | Frame material | Front Fork | Groupset |
| Canyon Grail CF SL 8 | Click View | 2×11 | Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800, Rotor |
| Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 | 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 |
| Giant Revolt Advanced 1 | Click View | 1×11 | Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber | Rival |
KHS GRIT 440 vs Canyon Grail CF SL 8
One major difference between the two bicycles is their drivetrain system. The KHS Full Carbon Grit has a Shimano GRX Gravel 2×11 speed system, while the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 is equipped with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 2×11 speed system. The Ultegra Di2 is a higher-end drivetrain system than the GRX Gravel, providing more precise and stable shifting.
The two bicycles also have different suspension systems. The KHS Full Carbon Grit has a front suspension fork, while the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 has a revolutionary double-decker cockpit with an innovative leaf spring design on the handlebars. The double-decker cockpit provides more comfort and reduces road vibrations, giving the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 an advantage for long-distance riding.
In terms of weight, the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 is slightly lighter than the KHS Full Carbon Grit. The weight of the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 is approximately 8.8 kilograms, while the weight of the KHS Full Carbon Grit is around 9.8 kilograms. This weight difference may not be significant, but it can make a difference in speed and maneuverability.
Overall, both the KHS Full Carbon Grit and the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 are excellent choices for serious gravel enthusiasts. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and specific needs, such as terrain type, distance, and desired speed. The KHS Full Carbon Grit offers a versatile drivetrain system and a comfortable front suspension fork, while the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 has a high-end drivetrain system and innovative double-decker cockpit for added comfort.
KHS GRIT 440 vs Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5
The KHS Full Carbon Grit and Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 are both high-quality gravel bikes with designs that offer excellent performance and versatility. Both bikes have carbon fiber frames, hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless wheelsets, making them suitable for various terrain types. One difference between the two bikes is the drivetrain system. The KHS Full Carbon Grit is equipped with a Shimano GRX Gravel 2×11 speed system, while the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 has a Shimano 105 2×11 speed system. Although the Shimano 105 is a lower-end drivetrain system than the GRX Gravel, it still provides smooth shifting and reliable performance.
Another difference is the wheelset. The KHS Full Carbon Grit has WTB ST-I25 TCS wheel rims, while the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 has WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 wheel rims and Formula hubs. The WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 wheel rims are slightly lighter than the WTB ST-I25 TCS wheel rims and more aerodynamic, giving the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 a slight edge in speed and maneuverability. The two bikes also have different suspension systems. The KHS Full Carbon Grit has a front suspension fork, while the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 has a rear suspension system. The rear suspension system provides more comfort and reduces road vibrations, giving the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 an advantage for long-distance riding.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Topstone 4 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Topstone 4 Review]
KHS GRIT 440 vs Jamis RENEGADE C1
The KHS GRIT 440 and Jamis Renegade C1 are both high-performance gravel bikes designed for versatility and endurance. Both bikes have carbon fiber frames, hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless wheelsets. The KHS GRIT 440 is equipped with a Shimano GRX Gravel 2×11 speed system, while the Jamis Renegade C1 has an SRAM Force eTap AXS 1×12 speed system. The SRAM Force eTap AXS offers a wide range of gears and precise shifting, making it a popular choice among gravel racers.
Another difference is the wheelset. The KHS GRIT 440 has WTB ST-I25 TCS wheel rims and Formula hubs, while the Jamis Renegade C1 has Reynolds AR41 carbon wheel rims. The Reynolds AR41 carbon wheel rims are lighter and more aerodynamic than the WTB ST-I25 TCS wheel rims, giving the Jamis Renegade C1 an advantage in speed and maneuverability. The two bikes also have different suspension systems. The KHS GRIT 440 has a front suspension fork, while the Jamis Renegade C1 has a carbon fiber seatpost, which can increase comfort and reduce road vibrations.
Learn More: Is Jamis RENEGADE S3 Worth Buying?- [Jamis RENEGADE S3 Review]
KHS GRIT 440 vs Giant Revolt Advanced 1
The KHS GRIT 440 and Giant Revolt Advanced 1 are two high-performance gravel bikes designed for versatility and endurance. Both bikes have carbon fiber frames, hydraulic disc brakes, and tubeless wheelsets.
One difference between the two bikes is the drivetrain system. The KHS GRIT 440 is equipped with a Shimano GRX Gravel 2×11 speed system, while the Giant Revolt Advanced 1 has a Shimano Ultegra RX 2×11 speed system. The Ultegra RX is a higher-end drivetrain system than the GRX Gravel, providing more precise and stable shifting.
Overall, both bikes are excellent choices for serious gravel enthusiasts. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and specific needs, such as terrain type, distance, and desired speed. Additionally, the KHS GRIT 440 offers a versatile drivetrain system and comfortable front suspension fork, while the Giant Revolt Advanced 1 has a higher-end drivetrain system and lightweight carbon fiber components for optimal speed and performance.
Learn More: Is Giant Revolt Advanced 3 Worth Buying? [Giant Revolt Advanced 3 Review]
Summary
These are our tests of the KHS GRIT 440. It’s a high-performance, top-of-the-line carbon fiber gravel bike with excellent gravel-specific components, making it a great choice for long-distance travel or gravel road racing. Its price also offers more performance compared to other big-name brands. If you are looking for more reviews on other popular brands, check out our other articles.
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