Do you dream of chasing distant horizons? Do you prefer a sweaty and claustrophobic sleeping bag to crisp Egyptian cotton? If so, the 2017 Genesis Tour de Fer 20 may be the bike for you.
2017 Genesis Tour de Fer 20 highlights
- Full dynamo light set up
- Burly Reynolds 725 frameset
- Full Tiagra 3x10 groupset
- Front and rear Tubus racks
At first glance it would be easy to assume that this is just a Croix de Fer with beefed up parts, but the geometry of the Tour de Fer is subtly different compared to its more spritely cousin.
The primary differences are a longer wheelbase, which improves general stability, a lower trail fork to improve the handling when loaded at the front and a slightly higher stack height, which makes for a more comfortable, upright position.
The biggest change for 2017 is undoubtedly the move back to drop bars. Although some prefer the feel of flat bars for touring, we prefer the multiple hand positions offered by drops, particularly for long days in the saddle.
The Tour de Fer 20 remains a great value for money bike and for £1,499.00 you get a sturdy Reynolds 725 frameset, a full dynamo lighting set up, front and rear Tubus racks and proper full-cover mudguards. Bought as additional accessories to a new bike, this full complement of touring gubbins would quickly add up.
This year’s Tour de Fer also moves away from the Deore/Altus mix drivetrain of the previous generation and is now replaced by a full Tiagra, 3x10 groupset. Genesis has sensibly decided to forgo the new Tiagra hydro brakes in favour of the well proven, mechanical TRP Spyres in the name of long-term reliability and ease of roadside repairs.
The 3x10 groupset may appear a little old school at first glance, but with all of your worldly possessions loaded onto your bike we have no doubt that you’d willingly take a granny gear option for the steepest of inclines.
Whether you have an epic commute to tackle or are planning on circumnavigating the world, the Tour de Fer 20 is a very dependable looking bike which is well worth your attention.
2017 Genesis Tour de Fer 20 pricing and availability
The Tour de Fer 20 will be available from your local Genesis dealer by late September and will be £1,499.99. US and Australian pricing not available.
