u/IndependentTarget969

Hi everyone,
I’m F/25 (5’10) and I just completed my first 100km organized ride. I finished in 5 hours, with an average speed of 20km/h (12.4 mph).
I had absolutely zero training. I just did a quick 20km ride the day before to test the bike, and that was it. I used a men’s "all-road" bike (not a road or gravel bike). The saddle was way too low, and now my knees are really hurting.
Despite the pain, I loved the experience! I don’t know if I’ll do 100km every week, but I’m convinced that having the right bike would make a world of difference.
My questions:

1. For a total beginner with no training and bad gear, is 20km/h over 100km decent?
2. I’m looking for a Gravel bike because I live in the countryside. I’ve seen the Canyon Grizl CF (Carbon) for around 2000€. My budget is strictly 2000€ max. Is there a massive difference between a high-end Alu frame and an entry-level Carbon frame?
3. The knee issue: Do you think the pain is strictly due to the low saddle, or is 100km just too much for a first time without training?

Thanks for your advice!

Hi everyone,
I’m F/25 (5’10) and I just completed my first 100km organized ride. I finished in 5 hours, with an average speed of 20km/h (12.4 mph).
I had absolutely zero training. I just did a quick 20km ride the day before to test the bike, and that was it. I used a men’s "all-road" bike (not a road or gravel bike). The saddle was way too low, and now my knees are really hurting.
Despite the pain, I loved the experience! I don’t know if I’ll do 100km every week, but I’m convinced that having the right bike would make a world of difference.
My questions:

1. My performance: For a total beginner with no training and bad gear, is 20km/h over 100km decent?
2. I’m looking for a Gravel bike because I live in the countryside. I’ve seen the Canyon Grizl CF (Carbon) for around 2000€. My budget is strictly 2000€ max. Is there a massive difference between a high-end Alu frame and an entry-level Carbon frame?
3. The knee issue: Do you think the pain is strictly due to the low saddle, or is 100km just too much for a first time without training?

Thanks for your advice!