OPEN U.P.P.E.R. with RED eTap AXS

SRAM's RED eTap AXS groupset made quite a splash when it launched earlier this year, and we're not surprised to see it already featuring on a number of new builds. The U.P.P.E.R. is the ultralight member of OPEN's GravelPlus range, and it makes a fantastic base for the 2x12 groupset, producing a bike that is flat-out fast on the road but not afraid to get its tyres dirty.

1x drivetrains are starting to make some inroads into the gravel/adventure scene, but if you're planning on lots of road miles there's still a lot to be said for the range and flexibility of a 2x setup. So what we have here is 2x12 gearing, giving a huge range with minimal gaps (and an integrated Quarq power meter to monitor how that steady cadence is paying off).

A full complement of ENVE contact points provide strength and their usual superb feel, with the flared drops of the gravel bars giving additional control when you venture off the tarmac. The G23 wheels are stiff, light and strong and ideal for running tubeless, with their hookless rims dramatically reducing the chance of pinch flats.

Build your own custom OPEN bike in our online Bike Builder (in fact, here's something very similar we put together earlier). Then get in touch and we'll build your dream bike to your exact requirements, with the perfect fit.

photos by Bobby Whittaker