Rose Bikes recently updated its Backroad range, with the same carbon frameset built specifically for either gravel or cyclo-cross riding.
11 different models are built around the same frameset are available from the direct-to-consumer company. The full carbon frameset is available in teal or sand and the bikes feature 42mm tyre clearance, thru-axle standard, flat mount disc brakes and full internal routing.
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I recently requested a sample of the mid-range, SRAM Force 22-spec Rose Backroad Cross Force 22 variant for this year's cyclo-cross season.
Rose Backroad Cross Force full specification
- Frame: Rose Backroad High Modulus Aerospace Carbon Fibre
- Fork: Rose Backroad High Performance Disc
- Front brake: SRAM Force HydroR, 160mm rotor
- Rear brake: SRAM Force HydroR, 160mm rotor
- Brake/shift levers: SRAM Force HydroR
- Front derailleur: SRAM Force double/11-speed
- Rear derailleur: SRAM Force 22 11-speed WiFli
- Cassette: SRAM PG-1170, 11-32
- Chain: SRAM PC-1170 11-speed
- Crankset: SRAM Force 22, 50/34, 172.5mm cranks
- Wheelset: DT Swiss P1750 Spline Disc Brake
- Front tyre: Schwalbe X-One Evo Bite, 33mm
- Rear tyre: Schwalbe X-One Allround Evo, 33mm
- Handlebars: Ritchey WCS Evo Curve
- Stem: Ritchey WCS C220
- Tape/grips: Fizik Microtex Black
- Saddle: Ergon SMC-40 Sport
- Seat post: Rose RC-170 Carbon
- Other accessories: SRAM chain catcher
- Total bicycle weight (no pedals): 8.30kg/18.30lbs
Teal on black
Rose Bikes is known for its understated looks and the new Backroad range is no exception. Available in teal (photographed) or sand, the conservative designs with simple black or white decals will suit an array of tastes.
Raw black forks, alongside black wheels and high-end finishing kit, also contribute to a great looking bike and I think some tan walled tyres next the teal will perhaps take it to the next level.
Rose Backroad Cross Force 22 build
Rose claims the carbon frame of the Backroad weighs 1,040g, which is only 80g heavier than the latest Specialized S-Works Venge frame. The frame also features full internal cable routing.
The SRAM Force 22 groupset includes hydraulic, flat mount disc brakes and a 2X11 mechanical drivetrain.
160mm rotors are specced front and rear, offering more than adequate stopping power. However, Rose does not offer an alternative for those who may prefer a 140mm rotor option.
For the same price as this SRAM Force 22 build, Rose also offer the build with mechanical Shimano Ultegra and a SRAM Force 1X specification.
Adding to the already impressive looks of the Backroad Cross is the finishing kit choices from Rose.
Speccing their proprietary carbon seat post, the cockpit consists of Ritchey's WCS C220 stem and WCS Evo Curve handlebar, wrapped in Fizik Microtex handlebar tape. A welcome change from the sometimes cheap-looking, in-house components from some bike brands.
Though I opted for 50/34x11-32 gearing, Rose allows each customer to choose chainring size, crank length and cassette size on ordering, ensuring most requirements are met.
DT Swiss provides the P1750 Spline disc wheels for the Rose Backroad Cross and are paired with 33mm Schwalbe X-One Allround Evo on the rear and a 33mm Schwalbe X-One Evo Bite on the front meaning the bike is ready to race in the mud out of the box.
The wheel and tyre combination is also tubeless ready.
Versatility
The choice of 11 Rose Backroad models already showcases the versatility of this carbon chassis but Rose take this further by accommodating mudguard mounts on the bridge of the seat stays, seat tube and on the fork crown, making this a welcome option for those using the bike for commuting.
Rose also allow each of its models to be custom configured via its online configurator tool.
Tyres, wheels, stem length, handlebar width, saddle, bottle cages and gearing choices are all available for modification before purchase, mostly for no or a nominal fee.
In its current setup and gear combination of 50/34x11-32, the Rose Backroad Force 22 offers ample gear range for all but the fastest of descents or road racing. Could this bike — or a close variant — be the answer to n+1?
Rose Backroad Cross Force 22 pricing and availability
Rose's direct-to-consumer business model leads to competitive pricing for such a well-specced carbon bike. As photographed, the Rose Backroad Cross Force 22 is priced at £2,268.01/€2,499.
Buy the Rose Backroad Cross at RoseBikes.com.