Gravel bikes have swiftly moved from a niche trend to a prominent force in the cycling world, capturing the attention of riders seeking versatility and adventure. For those who remember the early buzz around cyclocross bikes, fat tires, and touring models, the rise of gravel bikes might seem like another fleeting fad. However, the enduring appeal of gravel bikes lies in their remarkable ability to bridge the gap between road and mountain biking, offering a unique riding experience that’s both practical and exhilarating. Initially met with skepticism, the versatility of gravel bikes becomes undeniable once you experience them firsthand. They excel as commuter bikes, effortlessly navigate weekend trails, and provide a comfortable ride across varied terrains. For riders seeking a bike that can handle the demands of daily commutes and weekend adventures, Priority Bikes emerge as a compelling option, perfectly embodying this versatile category.
The Priority Apollo Gravel stands out as a prime example of a well-rounded gravel bike. Its thoughtful design and features, such as the internal gear hub and carbon drive belt, offer a blend of performance and low maintenance that appeals to a broad spectrum of cyclists. Priced competitively within the gravel bike market, the Apollo Gravel delivers exceptional value, considering its feature set and adaptability. Having been rigorously tested through a characteristically wet Pacific Northwest winter, this bike has proven its mettle as both a reliable daily commuter and a capable companion for weekend gravel excursions. Its design feels purpose-built for real-world riding conditions, making it a bike that many riders would consider purchasing for its practicality and enjoyable riding dynamics.
Priority Bicycles, the company behind the Apollo Gravel, has carved a niche for itself by catering to riders who appreciate cycling without the complexities often associated with the sport. Eschewing the hyper-technical aspects and specialized gear, priority bikes are designed for accessibility and enjoyment. Based in New York City, Priority understands the needs of urban cyclists and those who seek reliable, fun-to-ride bikes without the fuss of clip-in shoes or overly complicated maintenance. Their philosophy centers around creating attractive, user-friendly bikes that encourage more people to ride, more often.
The Apollo Gravel marks Priority’s entry into the gravel bike segment, a category known for bikes that resemble road bikes but with enhanced capabilities for off-pavement riding. Gravel bikes typically feature drop handlebars and a geometry that favors longer rides, similar to road bikes, but incorporate features that boost stability and control on loose surfaces. These enhancements often include wider tires for better traction and disc brakes for reliable stopping power in varied conditions. The Apollo Gravel embodies these characteristics, presenting a robust yet approachable option for riders venturing beyond paved roads.
The specific test model of the Apollo Gravel was a small size in Ground Control Green. At 5’2″, the reviewer found the small frame to be a good fit, though a minor adjustment to the handlebar stem for a slightly shorter reach was preferred. This highlights the importance of bike fit, and Priority Bicycles offers the Apollo Gravel in medium, large, and extra-large sizes to accommodate a range of rider heights. The availability of various sizes ensures that more cyclists can find a comfortable and efficient riding position on priority bikes.
Constructed with an aluminum frame and a shock-absorbing carbon-fiber fork and seat post, the Apollo Gravel strikes a balance between durability and comfort. Weighing in at a surprising 24 pounds, it feels remarkably light, comparable to a steel commuter bike, even with the inclusion of an internal gear hub. This low weight enhances the bike’s agility and makes it easier to handle both on and off-road.
The internal gear hub is a key feature of the Apollo Gravel, distinguishing it from many traditional bikes. Unlike conventional derailleur systems where the chain moves externally to change gears, an internal gear hub encloses the gear mechanism within the hub itself. While internal gear hubs are generally heavier, making them more common on commuter and electric bikes where weight is less critical, they offer significant advantages in terms of maintenance and reliability. Notably, internal gear hubs allow for gear changes even when stationary, a feature that proves particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic or when tackling steep inclines from a standstill.
For riders unfamiliar with internal gear hubs and belt drives, the prospect of rear wheel maintenance might seem daunting. While Priority Bicycles assures that changing a rear tire with this system is cleaner than dealing with a greasy chain and derailleur, instructional YouTube videos might initially raise concerns. However, the Apollo Gravel mitigates some flat tire worries by being tubeless-compatible. This feature allows riders to convert to a tubeless setup, significantly reducing the likelihood of punctures and enhancing ride quality.
Despite any perceived complexity in maintenance, the benefits of an internal gear hub on a commuter and gravel bike are substantial. The system largely eliminates common issues like chain tension adjustments and derailleur malfunctions. Prior to testing the Apollo, the reviewer had not used an internal gear hub bike on trails, but discovered that the ability to shift gears at a standstill is equally advantageous on steep, muddy trails as it is in urban commuting scenarios. This versatility underscores the appeal of priority bikes for riders who navigate diverse riding environments.
In conclusion, priority bikes, exemplified by the Apollo Gravel, offer a compelling blend of versatility, low maintenance, and enjoyable riding dynamics. The Apollo Gravel, with its thoughtful features like the internal gear hub and carbon belt drive, stands out as an excellent option for cyclists seeking a bike that seamlessly transitions from daily commutes to weekend gravel adventures. Its robust construction, comfortable ride, and user-friendly design make it a standout choice in the increasingly popular gravel bike category. For riders looking to embrace the versatility of gravel riding with a reliable and enjoyable bike, Priority Bikes, and specifically the Apollo Gravel, deserve serious consideration.
