Cycling UK Forum

My current bike is 34-28 at its lowest. Do you think that the leap to 34-32 is a big enough one? The bigger hills I face are mostly doable, with a few that cause me to grind to a halt.

Although the parts for a like for like swap would be relatively low, due to the low end spec of the bike, I am looking to go down the CX/Gravel route so I can fit chunkier tyres. Also the frame is a bit too small for me. I've only just shoehorned 28c tyres in at a push. After coming off my bike in a country road last week I really do feel a new setup is required.

As per the subject, has anyone bought or riden the Merlin Axe7 Tiagra? It's pretty tempting at £593.73 including delivery (at time of posting).

https://www.merlincycles.com/merlin-axe7-tiagra-gravel-bike-2017-104289.html

I'm currently running an old and shoddy Carrera TDF which just doesn't have the gears I need for hilly hilly Plymouth.

Is it worth a try? I can't see myself travelling all the way to the shop just to try it unless it's recommended, considering the distance!

TIA