At the time of writing this post it's been 3 months already since the delivery guy dropped a box with a very precious cargo at my door. I think I've ridden my Camino long enough to write a review that hopefully can answer some of the questions you may have before ordering yours on Alpkit's website.
For full spec, information and online ordering, head over to Alpkit website.
The model I'm writing about is here: Camino, Aluminium frame, with SRAM Rival groupset and hydraulic brakes.
I added a custom handlebar by Sonder, called Bomber, 56cm, making this bike the most badass thing you can imagine. Combined with a black frame, it really is looking awesome, and the geometry of the whole bike reminds me of a "cafe racer" style of motorbike. However, it's versatility goes way beyond visiting your coffee shop...
This review is not sponsored. I'm just a happy owner who wants to share my thoughts.
Looking awesome, riding even better.
1. Is it worth the money?
Absolutely YES. The pandemic created incredibly high demand for bikes and bike parts, and some sellers still have trouble completing orders, especially for custom bikes. But for around £1.5k, the Sonder Camino offers a spec that I couldn't match anywhere else. I do my due diligence when it comes to spending money on things I use for years, and I'm confident that the Camino is a great value.
2. How does it feel riding?
Solid and agile. The longest ride I've had on the Camino is only about 5 hours, but I can see myself spending multi-day adventures in its saddle. The carbon fork and aluminum frame work great on gravel, absorbing shocks nicely. The absence of a front derailleur and SRAM levers reduces the number of loose parts, making the whole system feel very integrated.
I wasn't sure about the Bomber handlebar when I ordered it (is the angle too much?), but I'm glad I got it. It gives me plenty of grip options and takes the fun of downhill sections to the next level.
Bomber drop bars. This is definitely the right name for it.
3. I'm between the sizes, what frame have you got?
I'm 5ft 10, got large and it's perfect 👍
4. Is it good for bikepacking?
The Camino has mounts everywhere, including on the fork, so you can load it with bags of all kinds in a myriad of configurations. I've loaded it with a seatpost bag, frame bag, two bottle cages on the frame, and a handlebar bag.
5. SRAM or Shimano?
I've always had Shimano on my bikes before, so I thought I'd try the double-tap system for a change. I won't lie, it took some time to adjust, and I still misfire a gear occasionally. But overall, I find it more reliable to have a dedicated brake lever, rather than a do-it-all lever. Sonder also offers Shimano options, for those who prefer them.
6. What terrain is it best for?
The Sonder Camino is the perfect embodiment of what a gravel bike should be: versatile, smooth and easy on tarmac, and agile and fun to ride off-road. I don't hesitate to take it on the same trails I used to tackle on a mountain bike years ago. With a little extra caution, it cuts through drops and rocks nicely. It's designed to shred, and you're sure to rediscover your old trails on it.
7. [update 2024] After two years of riding the Sonder Camino, have there been any problems? Are there any recommended upgrades?
Both wheels required servicing (hubs, bearings), likely due to my attempts to cross rivers on the saddle. 😂 Other than standard puncture fixes, brake pad replacements, and fluid top-ups, it's still rolling pretty well!
Upgrades
- tires - I personally found the originally fitted Goodyear Connectors tires to be unsuitable for both gravel and road. I replaced them with Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M tires (read more here), and now I couldn't be happier with how the bike is performing.
- chainring - The original 40T chainring was a bit too much for my knees when climbing hills, so I swapped it for a 34T chainring (read more here) aka. "granny gear". I'm very pleased with the setup now.