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That sounds like a fun bike :)
I like the look of their bikes/builds
http://talbotframeworks.co.uk/gallery/Makes me want to buy another bike...
Will
Bobbiego
Nath
I had an 'on trend' gravel bike built to my specs by Talbot (basically exactly the same as my road Talbot but with massive clearance, mudguard mounts, discs and slightly less saddle to bar drop) and fucking LOVE IT. Enve GRD fork with integrated snap on guard and custom machined spacers for the rear guard make fitting/removing the guards a 5 minute job (admittedly the enve guard is not as effective as a proper front guard). 700c wheels with up to 35c tyres when guards are fitted, or 40c sans guards. Am building some 650b wheels to run with 2 inch MTB tyres in the summer for proper off road LOLS. Currently running 30c Strade Binache tyres on it and it makes for a great more relaxed set up for long distance road rides. I'm going to have a pop at some summer CX races on it for shits and giggles over the summer.
I know the new trend for gravel bikes (I'm not really sure if my Talbot even qualifies as a 'gravel' bike?) gets a lot of stick from the purists... ... But I fucking love mine. I never thought it was possible to have one bike that was capable of such varied types of riding and terrain. It's now my go to bike. I used to be pure 100% road bikes and smooth blacktop only, but now my favourite routes are the ones that involve a load of gravel/fire road/woodland track sections with some crappy B roads joining them up. Its just so much more fun, and thats what its all about (for me at least, anyway).
Hydro Di2 is a revelation.
Bit spendy, but got exactly what I wanted without any compromise. Can hook you up with a discount if custom is a consideration.
Open UP with the new updated and much better looking fork would be my OTP choice.