The all-rounder Storck Grix.2 Comp Force XPLR underlines its racing ambitions with a sporty riding position and extremely lively steering behaviour that not even road-going marathon bikes can match. Markus Storck uses a trick and puts 27.5-inch carbon wheels in the frame set. For a smoother ride, a set with classic dimensions can also be selected in the configurator. The smaller wheels also allow the use of thicker tyres, which means that the Grix.2 can also venture into rougher terrain compared to some of its race competitors. On the test bike, 50-millimetre tyres support the suspension. Just how effective this is can be seen at the front, which feels much more springy than the measured value from the TOUR lab suggests.
Mounting points on the Storck Grix.2 Comp Force XPLR
In addition to the generous tyre clearance, the Storck is equipped for off-road tours lasting several days thanks to a number of mounting points for accessories. With the options for pannier racks, bags or mudguards, the Grix.2 is poaching in the territory of adventure-ready gravel bikes. The overall weight is impressive for a bikepacking specialist, but the bike falls a little short compared to the race-orientated competition, partly because the Storck has a slight weakness in the bottom bracket stiffness, which could bother heavy or powerful riders.
Wide range of applications for the gravel bike
Overall, the Grix.2 offers the widest range of use compared to the competition, which many customers will welcome. However, the all-rounder approach entails certain compromises: ambitious racers will probably want a little more riding dynamics and less weight, while those who enjoy travelling will want a more comfortable riding position. For the former target group, Storck offers the lighter and more torsion-resistant Pro and Platinum model series as alternatives. With comparable equipment, they are 300 and 800 euros more expensive respectively.
Storck Grix.2 Comp Force XPLR: Info & test grade
- Price: 4999 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 8.8 kilos
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL (test size greased)
- TOUR grade: 2,1
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 521/570/149 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 582/385 millimetres/1.51
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 629/552 millimetres/1.14
- Wheelbase/caster: 1020/59 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Force XPLR AXS (1x12; 40, 10-44 t.) | Grade: 2.0
- Brakes: SRAM Force (160/160 mm) | Grade: 1.5
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Bite 50 mm (eff.: 49 mm) | Grade: 1.0
- Impellers: Time Hunter Comp 40G 27.5"
- Impeller weights: 1685/2174 grams (front/rear)
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Wide range of applications, very good rear comfort
- Minus: High total weight, high maintenance requirements
Julian Schultz
Editor
