KHS GRIT 330 Review
- Price: $2999
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Wheels: 700c Aluminum
- Gear: 2×10
What we like about it: High-end component configuration, lightweight body.
What we don’t like about it: The inability to get faster speeds compared to regular road bikes.
Rating (4.8/5)
For 45 years, KHS bicycles have been a renowned brand in the cycling industry. Founded in 1974, KHS has been committed to producing high-quality bikes for riders of all levels. The brand has continuously innovated and adapted to changing cycling environments. The KHS GRIT series is a testament to this commitment, with a lineup specifically designed for the increasingly popular gravel riding. The GRIT series features a range of gravel bikes designed to handle rugged terrain, including the GRIT 330. It is a capable and affordable choice for off-road and all-around adventure riding.
The KHS GRIT 330 is a versatile mountain bike designed to handle various terrains, including rocky paths, loose gravel, and dirt roads. It features a lightweight and durable carbon fiber frame that provides ample cushioning on rugged terrain. Equipped with 27.5-inch wheels and wide tires, it offers better traction and stability.
The bike also has a 2×9 speed drivetrain with Shimano Altus shifters and derailleur, allowing for smooth shifting. Hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, making it suitable for steep downhill rides. The wide handlebars offer better control and stability, while the comfortable saddle ensures long rides without fatigue. Overall, the KHS GRIT 330 is an excellent choice for riders looking for a capable and affordable mountain bike for off-road trails and all-around adventure riding.
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Riding Experience
As a serious cyclist, I have been looking for a bike that can handle both road and gravel challenges, and the KHS GRIT 330 with its carbon fiber frame, GRX 400/600 components, and hydraulic disc brakes seem to be the perfect fit. Over the past few months, I have taken this bike on multiple rides, and I must say that it has exceeded my expectations, whether on flat roads or bumpy gravel paths.
Before setting off, I also booked accommodation through Skyscanner to give myself ample space to rest and prepare. My typical road ride is along California’s scenic Pacific Coast Highway, starting from Santa Monica and heading north toward Malibu. With its comfortable geometry and lightweight frame, the GRIT 330 made this ride an absolute breeze. I usually maintain a steady speed of 20-25 mph. Even at this speed, the bike feels very stable and responsive. The hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, giving me the confidence to push the bike to its limits on long downhill rides. The 2×9 speed drivetrain shifts smoothly and reliably, making it effortless to tackle the rolling hills along the coastline. The GRX 400/600 components also offer a wide range of gear choices, making it easier for me to maintain a consistent cadence throughout the ride.
Gravel Riding
On one of my gravel rides, I took my bike to Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. The terrain here is quite challenging, with rocky paths and loose gravel making for a bumpy ride. But the GRIT 330 handled it like a champ. The wider tires and front suspension fork provided excellent traction and cushioning, while the bike’s geometry made it easy to navigate through rugged terrain. The bike’s carbon fiber frame also helped absorb some vibrations, making the ride smoother. Despite the challenging terrain, my average speed remained around 15 mph thanks to the bike’s efficient power transfer and stable handling.
Another memorable ride was in the scenic wine country of Sonoma County, California. This ride included both smooth roads and bumpy gravel sections, with many rolling hills along the way. The bike’s comfortable geometry made it easy to maintain an aerodynamic position on smoother sections, while the wider tires and front suspension fork provided good cushioning on the gravel sections. The bike’s hydraulic disc brakes also came in handy on some steeper downhill sections, giving me the confidence to let loose and enjoy the ride. Along the way, I passed several vineyards and wineries, including the St. Jean Winery and the Ledson Winery, both offering charming views of the surrounding countryside.
Overall, the KHS GRIT 330 left me with an incredible impression, both on the road and off. It is a versatile bike that can handle various terrains, from flat roads to bumpy gravel paths. Its comfortable geometry, efficient power transfer, and stable handling make it a joy to ride, whether cruising along the coast or tackling challenging climbs in the mountains. I highly recommend this bike to any serious cyclist looking for a reliable and capable gravel bike.
Specification
The KHS Full Carbon GG Design frame is the core of this gravel bike, providing a lightweight and sturdy platform for other components. The T700 MSD high modulus carbon material is designed to be robust and durable, while the 1.5 taper and 12mm thru-axle provide stability and responsiveness during rides. The Weinmann U28 TL rims with 14G stainless steel black spokes and aluminum rims are also noteworthy. They provide a durable and tubeless-ready wheelset that can handle various terrains.
The drivetrain and braking system are top-notch, using the Shimano GRX Gravel groupset with hydraulic disc brakes for reliable and efficient braking power. The Shimano GRX Gravel ST-RX400 shifters and Shimano FC-RX600 crankset also ensure smooth and efficient shifting. Overall, the components on this bike are designed to provide a high-quality and versatile riding experience.
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What do we like about it?
- Lightweight and durable carbon fiber frame: The KHS full carbon GG design frame provides a lightweight yet strong platform that makes riding comfortable and efficient.
- Efficient drivetrain: Shimano GRX gravel set with Shimano FC-RX600 crank ensures efficient drivetrain and smooth shifting.
- Versatile Wheelset: Weinmann U28 TL rims with 14G stainless steel black spokes and aluminum nipples for tubeless use to handle a variety of terrain.
- Reliable braking system: Shimano GRX Gravel groups with hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable and efficient braking ability even in wet and muddy conditions.
- Comfortable geometry: The bike’s ergonomic FSA Adventure Compact handlebars and KHS Sport Road saddle provide a comfortable riding position, even on long rides.
- Wide tire clearance: The bike’s Kenda K1226 Alluvium Pro 700x40c tires have wide clearance, allowing for increased traction and stability on rough terrain.
- Easy shifting: Shimano GRX Gravel ST-RX400 shifter provides easy and smooth shifting, even when riding off-road.
- Wide range of shifting options: The Shimano FC-RX600 two-stage crank with 46-30T and the 10-speed Shimano CS-HG50-10 gearbox offer a wide range of shifting options for all terrain.
What don’t we like about it?
- Speed: You can’t get faster speed compared to normal road bikes.
FAQs
- Is the KHS full carbon frame durable for trail riding?
Yes, the T700 MSD high-modulus carbon material used for the frame is designed to be strong and durable for off-road riding.
- Can this bike accommodate wider tires?
Yes. The bike’s Kenda K1226 Alluvium Pro 700x40c tires have wide clearance for added traction and stability on rough terrain.
- How efficient is the power transfer with Shimano FC-RX600 cranks and Shimano GRX gravel sets?
The Shimano FC-RX600 two-stage crankset and Shimano GRX Gravel groupset ensure efficient drivetrain and smooth shifting for a more efficient and smooth riding experience.
- Are hydraulic disc brakes reliable in all weather conditions?
Yes. Shimano GRX Gravel groupsets with hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable and effective stopping power, even in wet and muddy conditions.
- Is the bike comfortable on long rides?
Yes, the bike’s ergonomic FSA Adventure Compact handlebars and KHS Sport Road saddle provide a comfortable riding position, even on long rides. In addition, the full T700 MSD carbon disc suspension fork provides good cushioning on rough terrain and reduces rider fatigue.
KHS GRIT 330 Specs
Build
| Frame | KHS Full Carbon GG Design, T700 MSD High Modulus Carbon, 1.5 Taper, 12mm Thru-Axle, Flat Mount Disc Color: Matte Audi Gray |
| Fork | Full T700 MSD Carbon Disc, 1.5 Taper, 12 x 100mm Thru Axle, Flat Mount, 12mm Thru-Axle |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano Outboard Bearing |
| 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, XS:80mm, S:90mm, M-L:100mm, XL:110mm |
| Handlebar | FSA Adventure Compact, Double Butted, Ergonomic, 31.8mm, XS:40cm, S-M:42cm, L-XL:44cm |
| Saddle | KHS Sport Road |
| Seatpost | Q2 Carbon, 27.2mm |
| Pedals | n/a |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano GRX Gravel RD-RX400 |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano GRX Gravel, FD-RX400 |
| Crank | Shimano FC-RX600, 2-pc, 46-30T, XS:165, S:170, M-XL:175 |
| Shifters | Shimano GRX Gravel ST-RX400, Hydraulic |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG50-10, 11-36T, 10-Speed |
| Chain | KMC X10 w/MissingLink |
| Brakes | Shimano GRX Gravel, BR-RX400 Hydraulic Disc, Flat Mount w/160mm Rotors Wave 12 |
| Brake Levers | Shimano GRX Gravel ST-RX400, Hydraulic |
Wheels
| Rims | Weinmann U28 TL, Disc Double Wall, Tubeless-Ready |
| Spokes | 14G Stainless Black, 32×32 w/Aluminum Nipples |
| Front Hub | Formula RX-812, S.B. Super Light Disc, 12mm x 100mm |
| Rear Hub | Formula RX-142, Sealed Bearing, Cassette, 12 x 142mm Thru-axle |
| 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 |
| Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 | Click View | 2×11 | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy | GRX 800, GRX 600 |
| Canyon Grail CF SL 8 | Click View | 2×11 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800, Rotor |
| Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 | Click View | 2×11 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800, GRX 600 |
| Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c | Click View | 1×11 | Aluminum alloy | Carbon Fiber | GRX 800 |
KHS GRIT 330 vs Trek Checkpoint ALR 5
The KHS GRIT 330 features a full carbon fiber frame and fork, while the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 has an aluminum frame and carbon fork. The full carbon fiber frame of the KHS GRIT 330 provides a lightweight and sturdy platform. Meanwhile, the aluminum frame and carbon fiber fork combination of the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 offers a balance of strength and weight.
In terms of components, the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is equipped with Shimano GRX 800 and GRX 600 components, while the KHS GRIT 330 is equipped with Shimano GRX 400 and GRX 600 components. The Shimano GRX 800 components on the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are higher-end components that offer smoother and more precise shifting compared to the GRX 400 components on the KHS GRIT 330.
The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 has a 22-speed shifting system, while the KHS GRIT 330 has a 20-speed shifting system. The additional two gears on the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 may provide a slight advantage in achieving the optimal cadence on steep climbs and long-distance rides.
The KHS GRIT 330 is equipped with Kenda K1226 Alluvium Pro 700x40c tires, while the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is equipped with Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite 700x32c tires. The wider tires on the KHS GRIT 330 provide better traction and stability on rough terrain. The narrower tires on the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 may offer a smoother and faster ride on smoother surfaces.
Learn More: Is Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 A Good Bike? [Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review]
KHS GRIT 330 vs Canyon Grail CF SL 8
Both bikes have carbon fiber frames that strike a balance between strength, durability, and weight reduction. However, the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 has a more aerodynamic frame design with a dropped seat post and integrated cockpit. This may provide a slight speed and efficiency advantage on smoother surfaces.
The Canyon Grail CF SL 8 has both 650b and 700c wheel sizes, while the KHS GRIT 330 only has a 700c size. The smaller 650b wheels on the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 may offer better traction and stability on rough terrain. However, the larger 700c wheels on the KHS GRIT 330 provide better rolling efficiency and speed on smoother surfaces.
In terms of components, the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 is equipped with higher-end Shimano GRX 800 and Rotor components, while the KHS GRIT 330 is equipped with Shimano GRX 400 and GRX 600 components. Compared to the KHS GRIT 330, the higher-end components on the Canyon Grail CF SL 8 offer smoother and more precise shifting, as well as better braking performance.
Learn More: Is Canyon Grail 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Grail 7 Review]
KHS GRIT 330 vs Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5
Both bikes have carbon frames that strike a balance of strength, durability, and weight savings. However, the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 has a more refined frame design with more advanced carbon layers and a SAVE micro-suspension system that provides additional comfort and compliance.
The Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 has a 22-speed Shimano GRX 400/600 drivetrain, while the KHS GRIT 330 has a 20-speed Shimano GRX 400/600 drivetrain. The additional two gears on the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 may provide a slight advantage in achieving the optimal cadence on steep climbs and long-distance rides.
The KHS GRIT 330 is equipped with Kenda K1226 Alluvium Pro 700x40c tires, while the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 is equipped with WTB Riddler TCS Light 700x37c tires. The wider tires on the KHS GRIT 330 provide better traction and stability on rough terrain. The narrower tires on the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 5 may offer a smoother and faster ride on smoother surfaces.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Topstone 1 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Topstone 1 Review]
KHS GRIT 330 vs Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c
Both bikes have carbon fiber frames that strike a balance between strength, durability, and weight reduction. However, the Journeyer GRX 810 700c has a unique carbon fiber frame design that includes a double-drilled stepped configuration, providing easier installation and disassembly.
The Journeyer GRX 810 700c is equipped with 50C tires, which are much wider than the 40C tires on the KHS GRIT 330. The wider tires on the Journeyer GRX 810 700c provide better traction and stability on rough terrain and can easily handle various surfaces. The Journeyer GRX 810 700c has an 11-speed Shimano GRX 810 shifting system, providing a wide range of gearing options for various terrains. The KHS GRIT 330 has a 20-speed Shimano GRX 400/600 shifting system, which still offers a solid range of gearing options.
Learn More: Is Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Worth Buying? [Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Review]
Summary
Above is our test of the KHS GRIT 330. It’s a mid-range gravel road bike with good performance. The carbon fork with carbon fiber frame and components designed for gravel road bikes make it easy to travel through gravel roads. The high head tube design also makes the ride more comfortable. If you need a long-distance touring bike with some off-road capability, it will be a very good choice.
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