When it comes to riding far and fast, your bike setup matters. Whether you’re planning a long-distance audax event or fast-paced touring across regions, you’ll need a machine that delivers speed, comfort, and durability. Here’s the ultimate build that balances all three — with carefully chosen components to meet the demands of endurance cyclists.
Frame Material: Titanium
Recommended: Lynskey GR300, Reilly Gradient, Moots Routt
Titanium is the gold standard for long-distance bikes. It’s lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and offers a wonderfully compliant ride that eats up road chatter — perfect for riding hundreds of miles over mixed terrain.
Alternative: High-quality steel frames (like Reynolds 853) offer similar comfort at a more affordable price, with slightly more weight.
Gearing: 2x Compact or 1x Wide Range
Top Picks:
- Shimano GRX 810 2×11: 48/31T front, 11–34T rear
- SRAM Rival XPLR 1×12: 42T front, 10–44T rear
The goal is to have enough gears to power through flats efficiently, while still offering climbing range for hills with a loaded setup.
Saddle: Brooks C17 Cambium or Selle SMP Pro
Endurance rides demand a saddle that disappears underneath you. The Brooks Cambium C17 offers rubberized, weatherproof comfort straight out of the box, while the Selle SMP Pro gives a more anatomical shape for riders who need specific pressure relief.
Handlebar Type: Flared Drop Bars
Recommended Models: Ritchey VentureMax, Salsa Cowchipper
Flared drops give you better control and multiple hand positions — critical for reducing fatigue over long hours in the saddle. They also help with handling, especially when descending with a loaded bike.
Wheel Size: 700c
700c is the go-to for audax and fast touring, helping you maintain speed over long distances. Pair them with 32-spoke wheels for a perfect mix of strength and efficiency.
Wheel Examples: Hunt 4 Season Gravel Disc, DT Swiss GR1600
Tyre Size: 700x35c to 700x38c (Tubeless)
Top Choices: Panaracer GravelKing SK, Schwalbe G-One Allround, Continental Terra Speed
Wide enough for grip and comfort on imperfect roads, but still narrow enough to roll fast on tarmac. Tubeless is a must to reduce the risk of punctures and lower rolling resistance.
Brakes: Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Recommended Groupsets: Shimano GRX or SRAM Rival AXS
Hydraulic brakes provide confident stopping power in all weather conditions — essential for long descents, loaded bikes, or group rides.
Additional Build Considerations
| Component | Recommendation | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Pedals | Shimano SPD (PD-M520) | Durable, easy to walk in, great pedal feel |
| Lights | Dynamo hub + Busch & Müller set | Reliable power for night riding and brevets |
| Bike Bags | Apidura or Ortlieb frame/saddle packs | Lightweight, waterproof, and endurance-ready |
| Mudguards | SKS Bluemels / full alloy guards | Keeps you and your gear dry on wet roads |
| Bottle Cages | Triple mounts + Elite Custom Race cages | Extra hydration for long rides |
| Computer | Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt / Garmin Edge 840 | Track metrics, plan routes, and stay on course |
Why This Setup Works
This build is engineered for long days in the saddle. It’s fast, comfortable, and can handle everything from smooth roads to gravel detours. With smart gearing, robust wheels, and thoughtful contact points, this bike can take you through 200km+ days with less fatigue and more fun.
Whether you’re entering your first audax or planning a solo tour, this setup provides the reliability and performance that distance riders demand.
Ready to build your dream long-distance machine? Share your setup in the comment section below and connect with other endurance riders from around the world.
