Hello – I’m new to the gravel bike world – located just outside of Denver and excited to get on some trails this spring. Up until now (39/m) I’ve mostly been using bikes (old road bike and electric hauler for the kids) to get around town, 20 miles round trip max.
I test rode a couple of different bikes from Salsa and Specialized at my LBC (Wheat Ridge Cyclery for the locals who know). The Specialized Diverge’s called to me – I like the “future shock” front suspension system as I anticipate riding some rough mountain roads along w/ standard gravel. It’s my understanding that no other brands have a comparable system, and I’m fairly certain that I don’t want the added weight of a full front suspension fork.
What I liked: I could definitely tell a difference with the carbon fiber and, probably like most, loved the electronic shifting (eTap) available on the higher end Comp Carbon model.
On the low end I’m considering the [2023 Diverge Sport Carbon](https://www.specialized.com/us/en/diverge-sport-carbon/p/217055?color=350266-217055&searchText=95423-6058) ($2500) and on the high end (my favorite, of course) the [2024 Diverge Comp Carbon](https://www.specialized.com/us/en/diverge-comp-carbon/p/221371?color=367639-221371) ($4000). I intended to keep it under $3000 but of course was convinced to ride the Comp Carbon, and it felt perfect all around.
My primary questions – is there really a $1500 value / difference between these two bikes? Can anyone share general feedback on these two bikes, the Diverge model range in general, or suggest other bikes to check out before I pull the trigger?
Thank you!!
​
by prowaktive