[adam_mac84]

I race a 2012 redline conquest carbon. Looking at picking up the aluminum version for a pit bike (frame/fork)... setup will be exact same, just 1cm longer chain stay. Will also use it for gravel grinder bike/racing.

My question is is the stock fork garbage? Super heavy? I know it is carbon with aluminum steerer, but have an option to get the frame only for $150 less.

 

[ts8169]

I have the Aluminum Conquest Pro but 2008. I've raced it in some major events but I'm only Cat.4. I've been very happy with the bike and fork but have never ridden a carbon cross bike. Only my carbon 29er mountain bike, so I do have some carbon experience racing Cat.2 mountain XC.
My guess here is that budget may be an issue and in my experience you can't go wrong with an alloy Conquest and a great set of wheels. It's a hard package to beat for the monetary investment.