Masi Giramondo 700c Review
- Price: $1549
- Frame: Steel
- Tires: Kenda Quick Drumlin | 700x45c
- Gears: 3×10
What we like about it: A modern touring bike with a geometry that remains comfortable even after hours of riding.
What we don’t like about it: The steel frame and fork add more weight to the bike, which can be challenging for some riders.
Rating: (4.7/5)
More and more people are choosing bicycles as a means of travel. It’s not only environmentally friendly but also a great way to exercise and connect with nature. So, I came across the Masi Giramondo 700c.
According to Masi’s promotion, this bike is perfect for touring. After getting my hands on this bike, I put it to the test and was pleasantly surprised by its performance.
In this article, we will analyze the riding experience, main features, components, and specifications of the Masi Giramondo 700c.
Additionally, we will compare it with several other top bicycle models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
As a gravel bike, the Masi Giramondo 700c performs exceptionally well for off-road riding. So, I took it from the bustling streets of New York City to the outskirts to test its touring capabilities.
Touring
In the city, where traffic is heavy, I adjusted the microSHIFT RD-M62L rear derailleur and microSHIFT FD-M613-B front derailleur to appropriate gear ratios for different speeds.
With the Brev M. compact adventure bend handlebars and a 71.0° head tube angle, I was able to maneuver swiftly and avoid colliding with other vehicles. Thanks to the TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes, I could decelerate promptly when faced with danger.
Once I reached the gravel roads in the countryside, the terrain became rough, with loose gravel and standing water from last night’s rain. However, with the Kenda Quick Drumlin tires, none of this posed a problem.
The 45c tires offered excellent traction and stability in wet or loose conditions. The 5mm K-Shield strikes a perfect balance between puncture resistance and maintaining excellent riding quality. I could effortlessly roll over the gravel. Riding this bike felt carefree, thanks to the confidence provided by the Kenda Quick Drumlin tires.
Is that all?
Despite the steel frame and fork of the Masi Giramondo 700c adding extra weight to the bike, it undeniably offers ample carrying capacity. The design of the Tubus Tara front rack and Tubus Cargo rear rack makes it convenient for me to bring all the essentials on my tours. The three bottle cage mounts ensure I stay hydrated throughout. I truly believe this bike is well-suited for touring.
The Masi Giramondo 700c has even more outstanding features. The Selle San Marcos RnD Full-fit Start UP Wide saddle is perfect for long rides. The plush material provides exceptional comfort, and I didn’t experience excessive pressure on my hips or stiffness from sitting for extended periods. The Brev M. Alloy Seatpost offers great support, allowing me to change positions comfortably.
Specifications
The Masi Giramondo 700c is an exceptional gravel bike with a Giramondo adventure steel frame and fork. The microSHIFT RD-M62L rear derailleur and microSHIFT FD-M613-B front derailleur work smoothly together, enabling riders to shift gears quickly.
Furthermore, the TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power. They allow riders to brake promptly in dangerous situations, preventing accidents. The Brev M. compact adventure bend handlebars, coupled with a 71° head tube angle, provide excellent maneuverability for the bike.
Moreover, the 45c Kenda Quick Drumlin tires are wide and versatile, offering superior traction and boosting riders’ confidence in cornering.
What we like about it:
- A modern touring bike with a geometry that remains comfortable even after hours of riding.
- Three bottle cage mounts on the frame ensure riders stay hydrated.
- Equipped with Tubus Tara front rack and Tubus Cargo rear rack for carrying plenty of items.
- Tubeless Kenda Quick Drumlin tires eliminate the risk of punctures.
What we don’t like about it:
- The steel frame and fork add more weight to the bike, which can be challenging for some riders.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
Both beginners and experienced riders can enjoy this bike.
- Can this bike carry water and items?
It has three bottle cage mounts, Tubus Tara front rack, and Tubus Cargo rear rack, making it capable of carrying ample items and providing hydration options for riders.
- What is the braking system on this bike?
It is equipped with TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes.
- How do I choose the right size?
Please refer to the size chart below:
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’6″ | XS |
| 5’4″ – 5’9″ | SM |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | MD |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | LG |
| 6’0″ – 6’5″ | XL |
These sizes are general guidelines, and the best way to find your ideal size is to try it out for yourself.
Specs
Build
| Frame | Giramondo adventure | Tig welded heat-treated, double-butted chromoly | 1.125″ integrated head tube | 68mm BSA threaded bottom bracket | IS disc brake | QR dropouts BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Blue Steel |
| Fork | Giramondo adventure | Chromoly segmented-crown with straight blades | 1.125″ steer tube | IS disc mount | Rack, fender, and bottle mounts | Dynamo wire routing | QR dropouts |
| Bottom Bracket | 68mm threaded BSA |
| Headset | Masi by Token 1.5″ tapered | Sealed bearing |
| Stem | Brev M. Gravel | 3D forged alloy | -7° drop | XS: 60mm, S-M: 70mm, L: 80mm, XL: 90mm |
| Handlebar | Brev M. compact adventure bend | ϕ 31.8mm | 125mm drop | 78mm reach | | 12° flare | XS-M: 42cm, L-XL: 44cm |
| Saddle | Selle San Marcos RnD Full-fit Start UP Wide |
| Seatpost | Brev M. Alloy | ϕ 27.2mm x 330mm | 5mm offset |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | microSHIFT RD-M62L | Long-Cage | 10s |
| Front Derailleur | microSHIFT FD-M613-B | Band-type, 31.8mm with ϕ 28.6mm adapter |
| Crank | Masi MPL-851-TT 10s | 44/32/24T chainring | XS – M : 170mm, L – XL : 175mm |
| Shifters | microSHIFT Barend Shifters |
| Cassette | microSHIFT | 10-spd | 11—36T |
| Chain | KMC X10 |
| Brakes | TRP Spyre-C disc | Flat mount | Dual piston | 6-bolt rotors, 160mm |
| Brake Levers | TRP RRL-A | Ultralight | Non-integrated |
Wheels
| Rims | Brev M. 700c Adventure Disc | Depth: 26mm, Width (internal): 23mm | 32H | Double wall | Tubeless compatible |
| Front Hub | Brev M. Disc | Sealed bearings | QR | 6-Bolt | 32H |
| Rear Hub | Brev M. Disc | Sealed bearings | QR | 6-Bolt | 32H |
| Tires | Kenda Quick Drumlin | 700x45c | K-Shield+ puncture protection |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click View | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless | Click View | Bontrager GR2 Team Issue | 1×11 | Aluminum | Shimano GRX 800,GRX 600 |
| Kona Rove AL 650 | Click View | Maxxis Rambler 650x47c | 2×8 | Aluminum | Shimano Claris |
| Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b | Click View | Teravail Washburn, 650b x 47 mm | 2×9 | Aluminum | Shimano Sora |
| Poseidon Dropbar Redwood | Click View | 27.5″x2.35″ Kenda Kadre | 1×10 | Aluminum | microSHIFT Advent X |
Masi Giramondo 700c vs Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless
Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless features a 300 Series Alpha Aluminum frame and a carbon fork, making it lightweight. The carbon fork offers high flexibility and good shock absorption. However, it is more susceptible to breaking when subjected to side impacts. On the other hand, the Masi Giramondo 700c’s steel frame and fork have high strength and can carry a lot of items. The downside is that they are heavier, which requires more physical effort during rides.
Furthermore, the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless is equipped with excellent Shimano RX810 hydraulic disc brakes. While the serviceability may be weaker compared to the Masi Giramondo 700c’s mechanical disc brakes, the Shimano RX810 hydraulic disc brakes offer superior braking performance.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a sturdier frame, the Masi Giramondo 700c is an excellent choice. If you value better braking capabilities, the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless can better meet your needs.
Learn More: Is Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 A Good Bike? [Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review]
Masi Giramondo 700c vs Kona Rove AL 650
The Kona Rove AL 650 features 650b wheels, which provide excellent maneuverability. On the other hand, the Masi Giramondo 700c with its 700c wheels offers better rolling efficiency.
The Kona Rove AL 650 has an aluminum frame and aluminum fork, making it lighter than the Masi Giramondo 700c’s steel frame and steel fork. However, steel provides greater rigidity, allowing it to withstand more weight and carry more items.
Additionally, the Kona Rove AL 650 is equipped with a 2×8 Shimano Claris derailleur. In comparison, the Masi Giramondo 700c’s combination of microSHIFT RD-M62L Rear Derailleur and microSHIFT FD-M613-B Front Derailleur in a 3×10 setup offers smoother shifting and a wider gear range.
So, if you’re looking for a lighter bike, I would recommend the Kona Rove AL 650. If you prioritize smoother shifting and a wider gear range, the Masi Giramondo 700c would be the perfect choice for you.
Learn More: Is Kona Rove Worth Buying? – [Kona Rove Review]
Masi Giramondo 700c vs Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b
The Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b is equipped with an aluminum frame and a carbon fork, making it lightweight, flexible, and offering good shock absorption. On the other hand, the Masi Giramondo 700c’s steel frame and fork add extra weight but provide high stiffness.
Furthermore, the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b has a clearance of 50c, allowing it to accommodate 50c tires. In comparison, the Masi Giramondo 700c can only fit 45c tires. The wider tires on the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b can handle a variety of road surfaces and provide a more comfortable ride for the cyclist.
Therefore, if you’re looking to install wider tires, the Salsa Journeyer Sora 650b can meet your needs. If you prioritize greater stiffness, the Masi Giramondo 700c would be more suitable for you.
Learn More: Is Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Worth Buying? [Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 Review]
Masi Giramondo 700c vs Poseidon Dropbar Redwood
The Poseidon Dropbar Redwood is equipped with a 1×10 Shimano Sora R3000 drivetrain. Compared to the Masi Giramondo 700c’s 3×10 drivetrain, it effectively prevents chain drops and often offers a harder minimum gear and an easier largest cog, ensuring riders have sufficient climbing and descending range.
Additionally, the Poseidon Dropbar Redwood has 650b wheels, providing excellent agility. On the other hand, the Masi Giramondo 700c’s 700c wheels offer better rolling efficiency. The Poseidon Dropbar Redwood’s aluminum frame and fork are lighter in weight, but they have less rigidity compared to the Masi Giramondo 700c’s steel frame and fork.
In summary, if you prioritize a lower risk of chain drops, I would recommend the Poseidon Dropbar Redwood. If you prefer a bike with greater stiffness, the Masi Giramondo 700c would better suit your needs.
Learn More: Is Poseidon Dropbar X a Good Choice? – [Poseidon Dropbar X Review]
Conclusion
That concludes our full review of the Masi Giramondo 700c. This exceptional gravel bike delivers a comfortable riding experience on gravel surfaces. Considering the overall performance, we awarded it a high score of 4.7. If you’re interested in more bike-related content, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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