Enve’s foray into the complete bike market initially sparked skepticism, particularly for a brand renowned for its wheels and components. While their Custom Road model presented an intriguing option, it didn’t quite revolutionize the market. However, the introduction of the Melee and Fray models garnered acclaim, yet Enve remained largely associated with road cycling. The Enve MOG gravel bike, however, marks a significant shift. Positioned at the premium end of the gravel bike spectrum, the MOG is undeniably exceptional, though it’s advisable to consider alternative tire choices beyond Enve’s own offerings.
- Pros: Unparalleled ride smoothness, remarkably responsive handling, lightweight construction, size-specific fork rakes for optimized handling, generous tire clearance, abundant mounting points, integrated storage solution, refined aesthetics, and extensive customization options.
- Cons: Fully internal cable routing (complicating maintenance), somewhat delicate storage compartment latch, underwhelming stock tires, a slacker seat tube angle that might affect bike fit for some riders, and a high price point.
- The Verdict: Enve has undeniably created a standout gravel bike with the MOG.
Image: Side view of a complete Enve MOG gravel bike showcasing its sleek design and components, highlighting its premium build quality.
By the way, the mystery of the “MOG” name persists.
The Modular Genesis of the MOG
The Enve Custom Road, while not a chart-topper in every metric, introduced a unique proposition: custom geometry paired with modern aero road bike aesthetics. The fact that these frames are handcrafted at Enve’s Utah headquarters adds to their appeal.
The development of the Custom Road inadvertently paved the way for subsequent models. Constructed from nine individually molded parts, the Custom Road’s modular design allowed for geometric customization. This innovative approach streamlined the development of later Enve Bikes. The adaptability of these nine components meant that a gravel bike iteration was a logical progression. The visual kinship between the MOG and the Custom Road, as well as the Melee and Fray, is partly due to a deliberate design consistency. However, it also reflects the MOG’s direct lineage from the Custom Road’s adaptable construction method.
Image: Close-up of the Enve MOG gravel bike logo on the frame, emphasizing the brand identity and model name.
Despite the visual similarities, Enve positions the MOG not as an aero gravel bike, but rather as a versatile and highly capable machine.
Versatility and Capability: Key Features of the Enve MOG
Generous tire clearance is a standout feature, especially for a bike designed for speed. In a 1x drivetrain configuration, the MOG accommodates 700c tires up to 50mm wide. Even with a front derailleur, it can handle 700x47mm tires. Fender compatibility, with discreetly hidden mounts, slightly reduces these figures. While 650b wheelsets are compatible, Enve doesn’t advocate for them on the MOG, citing no performance advantages.
Image: Enve MOG frame detail showcasing its carbon fiber construction, clean lines, and internal cable routing, highlighting the frame’s lightweight and modern design.
Mounting options are plentiful, including three bottle cage locations (one under the down tube), top tube bag compatibility, fork leg cargo mounts, and front and rear fender mounts. Enve even suggests rear rack compatibility with specific models. Reflecting current trends, the MOG incorporates internal downtube storage with a secure slider-toggle latch. An internal bag aids organization, and straps minimize cable rattle within the frame.
Cable routing on the MOG is remarkably adaptable, accommodating various groupsets. Wireless electronic groupsets are seamlessly integrated, as are wired electronic options from Shimano. The frameset also supports mechanical 1x and 2x drivetrains (provided the front derailleur doesn’t require a frame-mounted cable stop). The UDH-compatible rear dropout further enhances versatility for those considering a mixed drivetrain setup.
Image: Close-up of the Enve MOG’s tire clearance around the rear stays, demonstrating the ample space for wide gravel tires and mud clearance.
Internal routing is also provided for dropper posts. While Enve promotes their own G-Series inverted dropper post (availability may be limited), any 27.2mm round dropper post is compatible.
Despite its robust capabilities for challenging terrain, evidenced by substantial downtube protection, Enve has engineered the MOG to be a fast gravel bike when desired.
The claimed frame weight of 950g (medium size, unpainted, without hardware) is competitive, especially considering the integrated storage. Handling is designed to be sporty, with trail figures in the low-to-mid 60s across all six sizes, even with 35mm tires. Slightly offset seat tubes enable short 420mm chainstays across the size range, despite the generous tire clearance. Employing three distinct fork rakes across the six frame sizes maintains consistent handling and front-center measurements, avoiding compromises in head tube angle.
Image: Detail of the Enve MOG’s UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) compatible rear dropout, highlighting its adaptability for different drivetrain configurations and future compatibility.
Stack and reach dimensions lean towards a lower and longer profile, respectively, but remain within a reasonable range. Reach figures are comparable to the Specialized S-Works Crux in similar sizes, while the MOG’s stack height is marginally taller. The front end utilizes Enve’s In-Route headset routing system. While aftermarket stems are compatible, they may appear visually less integrated. Enve stems are available from 80mm to 130mm lengths, with a +12° rise option for riders seeking a higher handlebar position.
The bottom bracket drop of 73-77mm (size-dependent) contributes to high-speed stability. Overall, the MOG possesses characteristics that would make it a capable cyclocross race bike, a diminishing breed in the gravel bike market.
Image: Front view of the Enve MOG emphasizing the integrated handlebar and stem setup, and the clean lines of the front fork, showcasing the aerodynamic considerations and modern aesthetics.
Enve offers the MOG as a “chassis,” including frame, fork, headset, stem, handlebar, and seatpost (with sizing customization options), for a premium price of US$5,500 / £5,500 / €5,000 / AU$10,000. This is approximately 10% more than a Specialized S-Works Crux frameset, but the inclusion of Enve’s carbon bar and stem makes the pricing comparable. The MOG is also available as a more traditional frame and fork package for US$3,750 (international pricing TBC). The component selection beyond the chassis is left to the rider.
The test bike was a top-tier build featuring a SRAM Red AXS/XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission 1×12 wireless electronic “mullet” groupset and a suite of Enve carbon components. The build included Enve G23 gravel wheels with Enve’s new 45mm Hex tubeless tires, In-Route flared gravel bar and stem, and a Selle Italia Boost SLR saddle customized for Enve.
Image: Enve MOG geometry chart illustrating the bike’s dimensions, angles, and sizing information, providing detailed specifications for potential buyers.
The complete high-end build weighed an impressive 7.88 kg (17.37 lb) without pedals or accessories.
First Impressions: Riding the MOG
Some bikes make an immediate impact, and the MOG is certainly one of them. Within minutes of riding on gravel, two key characteristics became apparent.
Image: Close-up of the Enve MOG stem and handlebar interface, showing the internal cable routing and the sleek integration of components.
