A Niner RLT 9 RDO that started as a stock Force build and got a meaningful upgrade: a SRAM Force XPLR drivetrain with a power-meter spindle, HED Emporia GA Pro aluminum wheels in place of the stock carbon, and a full Easton carbon cockpit. One of our go-to gravel setups.
The Build
This RLT started as a stock Force build, but the customer wanted a power meter and preferred aluminum wheels over the stock carbon set. That’s the kind of upgrade the RLT platform takes well — the geometry is neutral and easy to live with, and it clears up to 50mm tires, so there’s plenty of room to tailor it to how someone actually rides. We kept what was working and swapped in the pieces that mattered to this rider.
Drivetrain & Cockpit
The drivetrain is a SRAM Force XPLR 1x with the optional spindle-based power meter — one of the best values in the Force lineup. The cockpit pairs Easton EC90 AX carbon bars (a current shop favorite, with a slight flare and a comfortable top section) with an EA70 stem for clean fit adjustability, wrapped in Wolf Tooth Supple Lite tape — our standard for a tacky, comfortable feel.
The Wheels
The wheel swap was the centerpiece: the HED Emporia GA Pro alloy set, one of our go-to choices. They’re local to the Twin Cities, ride beautifully, and in a lot of cases weigh as much or less than mid-level carbon while staying under $1,000. We’ve put a lot of personal miles on these and have yet to re-true a set.
Tires & Fit
Vittoria Terreno Dry remains one of the safest, best-rolling choices for mixed Midwest gravel, set up tubeless. The rider is testing a Prologo Dimension EVA saddle before we finalize the fit. As always, the bike got a test ride on the path behind the shop to bed in the brakes and confirm shifting before it went home.
Want a Custom Gravel Build?
We can spec, order, and build any configuration. Stop by or reach out.