One of the great benefits of running a bike shop business is the opportunity to try all types of bike. With gravel biking rising in popularity and the bikes rapidly developing their own tech, David (BBB & DFCH owner) has built up an Enigma Esker, using a combination of cutting edge and classic components.
The Esker is a hand-built British bike with a lovely titanium frame that is performance-focused. The wheels are Hope 20-Fives with Pirelli Cinturato gravel tyres and the transmission is the 'Force' version of SRAM’s relatively new XPLR transmission and brakes, which are designed for gravel riding.
Here’s David’s verdict:
“I was really impressed with the bike, although my seat post kept dropping, so a return visit to the workshop is needed. The wheel and tyre combo rolled well but gave great grip and confidence on all surfaces, and the SRAM XPLR worked flawlessly, but my initial impression is that a dual front cog 2x transmission would be better for a gravel/road bike than a single front cog 1x, as you have closer gear ratios. I'm looking forward to much more gravel riding, especially as we have all the forests and the North York Moors on our doorstep to explore and the Enigma Esker could be the perfect bike!
When the bike isn't being ridden, it’s usually on display and available for test rides at BBB's Pickering shop. Come and check it out for yourself!
More about the Esker: https://www.enigmabikes.com/products/enigma-esker-gravel-bike
More about SRAM XPLR: https://www.sram.com/en/sram/gravel/series/force-xplr
Here’s a flyover of David’s activity on Strava: https://strava.app.link/E6kRHsuFL4b
