3T

Of the carbon gravel frames which I have owned and put miles on, the 3T Ultra is my favorite. Currently riding with 650b x 57 mm tires, and have plenty of clearance. The flex characteristic feel perfectly dialed. Unlike other carbon frames I've ridden, the 3T Ultra feels in sync with my pedal strokes and does not wear me down as I ride. I cannot overstate how important this is in a frame. 3T seems to understand the materials and construction better than other manufacturers who's bikes I've ridden. Also, the aero design I probably don't benefit much from, however, I have noticed my speed when descending is far faster than it used to be. I think that's where I notice the aero design the most. That and my average speed on familiar routes has increased, and without a big increase in my fitness level. Another thing I appreciate about the 3T Ultra is the reach and stack figures for my size are a better fit than 90% of the frames on the market. Pinarello and a few companies are working with more reasonable reach and stack figures, but would love to see more of the industry follow suit. The 3T Ultra's aesthetics are not really my own, but the look has grown on me, and the color is quite nice. My value rating is based on having purchased the frame while it was on sale.