The Pinnacle Arkose Four is a versatile, high-performance bike designed to excel in both cyclocross races and gravel riding. With a focus on handling, grip, and stiffness, the Arkose Four aims to deliver an outstanding ride experience across various terrains and conditions. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at how the Pinnacle Arkose Four performs in cyclocross and gravel riding, and explore its key features and capabilities.
Pinnacle Arkose Four: Key Features
- Frame and Fork: The Pinnacle Arkose Four features a lightweight, double-butted aluminium frame paired with a full carbon fork. This combination provides an excellent balance of stiffness and compliance, ensuring efficient power transfer while maintaining a comfortable ride.
- Drivetrain: The Arkose Four is equipped with a SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain, offering a wide range of gears for tackling varied terrain. The single chainring setup simplifies shifting and reduces the likelihood of dropped chains in muddy cyclocross conditions.
- Wheelset and Tyres: The bike comes with WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 rims and 40mm WTB Riddler TCS tyres. This wheelset and tyre combination offers excellent grip and durability, making it suitable for both cyclocross and gravel riding.
- Brakes: The Arkose Four is fitted with SRAM Apex hydraulic disc brakes, providing reliable and powerful stopping power in all conditions, including wet and muddy cyclocross races.
Cyclocross and Gravel Performance
Handling: The Pinnacle Arkose Four’s geometry is well-suited for both cyclocross and gravel riding. Its nimble handling allows for quick, responsive manoeuvring in tight, technical cyclocross courses, while the stable and balanced feel inspires confidence on high-speed gravel descents.
Grip: The WTB Riddler TCS tyres provide ample grip in various conditions, from muddy cyclocross races to loose gravel roads. The 40mm width offers a larger contact patch, improving traction and control on challenging surfaces. Tubeless compatibility also allows for lower tyre pressures, further enhancing grip and comfort.
Frame Stiffness: The Arkose Four’s aluminium frame and carbon fork deliver a stiff and efficient platform for power transfer. The bike accelerates quickly and maintains its speed well, making it a strong contender in both cyclocross and gravel events. At the same time, the frame and fork provide enough compliance to reduce fatigue and improve comfort during long rides or races.
Versatility: The Pinnacle Arkose Four’s design and component choices make it a truly versatile bike, capable of handling both cyclocross and gravel riding with ease. With additional mounting points for fenders and racks, the Arkose Four can also be adapted for commuting or light touring duties.
The Pinnacle Arkose Four is an impressive bike that delivers excellent performance in both cyclocross races and gravel riding. Its balanced geometry, reliable components, and versatile design make it an attractive option for riders seeking a bike that can tackle a wide range of off-road challenges. With its responsive handling, confident grip, and stiff frame, the Arkose Four is well-equipped to handle the rigours of cyclocross and gravel adventures, making it a great choice for riders looking to push their limits on varied terrain.
