Test Storck Grix.2 Comp: The number three in the Hessian manufacturer's gravel range is particularly interesting in terms of price-performance-weight. The Grix.2 is clearly based on the aero racing bike, but also has a lot to offer cyclists.
Often something new? At Storck in Idstein, this is not necessarily the company philosophy. Visually, the Hessians are only developing their brand carefully, so that older models still appear current and new bikes fit in very well into the range. And when it comes to technology, you can't be rushed: The Storck Grix.2 Comp (or Platinum or Pro) is - as the name suggests - only the second edition of the company's gravel bike, and the predecessor is also still available – even in the paintwork of the original 2019 model.
The Grix.2 isn't brand new either, and not much has changed compared to last year - although this time Storck is sending it into the race in the cheaper Comp version. Which means: At 2.599 euros, the frame set (also available separately) costs a whopping 900 euros less than that of the top model Grix.2 Platinum, which means correspondingly cheaper complete bikes. The Storck Grix.2 Comp is available from just 3.599 euros, while the Platinum only starts at 4.799 euros.
Storck Grix.2 Comp: Very good driving characteristics at an affordable price
Are there different driving characteristics associated with the cheaper frame? Rather not. The geometries of both frames are identical, which for Storck typically means a stretched sitting position with low handlebars due to the short head tube. The seat tube angle is unusually flat, which means that you have to position the saddle a little further forward on the seat post. The seat tube is slightly grooved, which gives the frame a certain aero look and has the advantage that at least 50 mm wide tires can be mounted.
Powerful and comfortable
The feeling of the Grix.2 Comp is also typical Storck. The bike is extremely powerful; The stiff handlebar-stem unit ensures very direct handling. Thanks to the extended carbon support, the Storck is also very comfortable to ride. The Grix.2 also benefits visually from its cockpit, as cables and cables are completely routed internally - it couldn't be tidier.
At the same time, numerous screw heads testify to the many mounting options for bottle cages, mudguards and even a rear rack. This makes the Storck suitable for cycling trips, although it feels more like a racing bike than a randonneur. The 2×11 gearbox with 48/31 crankset and 11-34 cassette also fits in with this – and of course the elegant wheelset.
Many equipment options
Storck offers the Grix.2 Comp with five equipment and three wheel options. The GRX810 variant tested is the cheapest; with the DT Swiss G 1800 aluminum wheelset the bike costs 3.599 euros. If you pay 400 euros more, you get the Storck with Zeitjaeger Comp 40 G, a carbon wheelset that weighs around 1.700 grams, but with an internal width of 19,5 mm is not really ideal for wide gravel tires. The Zeitjaeger 40 G Platinum on the test bike, on the other hand, is perfect for gravel riding - a super light wheelset with carbon spokes as well as a deep, wide rim profile and 24 mm inner width, so ideal for gravel tires.
Compared to the DT Swiss GRC 1400, which the Hessians like to install, the in-house wheelset saves over 300 grams and weighs just under 1.300 grams. Even if the Comp frame is a little heavier than the Platinum version, the complete bike falls overall as a result easier. With the elegant wheelset, the Grix.2 Comp only costs 4.599 euros - 1.100 euros less than the Grix.2 Platinum with the same groupset and aero wheels from DT Swiss. For a road bike-oriented gravel bike with a carbon cockpit and super-light aero wheelset that still offers plenty of tire clearance and numerous mounting options, the Storck is extremely attractively priced.
