For those dipping their toes into the gravel riding scene, the notion that you need to break the bank is quickly dispelled. In reality, spending over $2,000 doesn’t necessarily unlock a significantly better experience in the gravel category, especially when starting out. Features like aerodynamics take a backseat on varied terrains, and complex suspension systems aren’t essential for enjoying the gravel path. The good news is, you can find fantastic gravel bikes that deliver excellent performance without the premium price tag, and a Scott Gravel Bike stands out as a particularly smart choice.
One of the smartest moves you can make when choosing a gravel bike is to opt for an aluminum frame. Contrary to what some might believe, aluminum frames in this category are not significantly heavier than their carbon counterparts, and when you’re tackling gravel, the tires play a much more crucial role in absorbing bumps and vibrations. Basic aluminum gravel bikes, like the Scott Speedster Gravel series, offer a ride quality that rivals more expensive models with fancy features, excluding high-end suspension systems. A key upgrade that enhances comfort without breaking the bank is investing in a quality, flexible seatpost. Brands like Canyon and Ergon offer excellent seatposts around the $250 price point that effectively mimic the benefits of more complex and costly pivot systems and “do-hickeys” often touted in higher-end bikes. By choosing a quality aluminum frame and a flexible seatpost, you can save a considerable amount of money to allocate to essential and enjoyable upgrades like a frame bag, better tires, comfortable handlebars, pedals, and cycling shoes.
When it comes to components, don’t feel pressured to chase the latest and most expensive groupsets. Shimano’s 9 and 10-speed groupsets are incredibly reliable and offer smooth performance for gravel riding. Similarly, mechanical disc calipers provide ample stopping power and are easier to maintain than their hydraulic counterparts. Consider the example of the Liv Devote (also known as Giant Revolt) equipped with a 9-speed Sora groupset and mechanical calipers – riders report zero complaints, even when compared to high-end setups like AXS XPLR. While 11 or 12-speed groupsets might be beneficial if you plan to share wheelsets with a road bike or prefer a 1x setup with a wide-range cassette, for many gravel enthusiasts, the slightly older and more affordable groupsets offer exceptional value and performance.
For riders looking for a solid all-around gravel bike, the Scott Speedster Gravel 20 or 30 models are highly recommended. These bikes strike an excellent balance between performance, versatility, and affordability. Unless you’re planning to tackle very technical singletrack trails in the woods, the Speedster Gravel is more than capable for most gravel adventures. Its versatility extends to road riding as well; simply swap to road tires, and the Speedster Gravel transforms into a capable endurance road bike, perfect for long days on paved roads.
If your gravel riding aspirations lean towards more challenging trails, consider bikes like the BMC URS AL or Roadmachine X AL. These bikes feature a longer front-center distance, approximately 35mm more than the Speedster, which provides added stability and confidence when navigating rougher terrain. This geometry difference is beneficial for keeping you upright and in control should you encounter unexpected obstacles like rocks or roots on the trail. Interestingly, the experience offered by a $2200 Scott Speedster Gravel is remarkably similar to that of a $4500 Scott Addict Gravel, with the primary difference being a mere 2lbs in weight. In fact, the Speedster Gravel might even offer a more comfortable ride due to the aero seatpost on the higher-end Addict, which, while potentially beneficial on the road, is less advantageous for gravel riding. While aerodynamic seatposts might perform well in road-focused tests, their benefits are less pronounced and arguably detrimental in the context of gravel riding where comfort and compliance are paramount.
In conclusion, entering the world of gravel riding doesn’t necessitate a hefty investment. A Scott gravel bike, particularly the Speedster Gravel models, provides an outstanding entry point, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and value. By prioritizing a quality aluminum frame, smart component choices, and a comfortable seatpost, you can enjoy the thrill of gravel riding without compromise, leaving you with more funds to personalize your setup and explore new adventures.
