Gravel bikes stand out in the cycling world for their incredible versatility, blurring the lines between road and mountain bikes. This category encompasses a wide spectrum of bicycles, from aerodynamic speed machines designed for gravel racing to robust steel-framed bikes equipped for adventurous off-road trails. The beauty of gravel bikes lies in their adaptability; you can customize them to match your specific blend of on-road and off-road preferences. This makes them ideal not just for competitive events and weekend excursions, but also for everyday commuting, extensive bikepacking trips, cyclocross competitions, and even comfortable road cycling.
Choosing the best gravel bike depends on your riding aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to conquer challenging bikepacking routes or compete in demanding gravel races, selecting the right bike is crucial. To simplify your decision, we’ve rigorously tested a range of gravel bikes. Below are our top recommendations, each thoroughly evaluated by our team of expert reviewers.
If you’re new to cycling or gravel riding and find the options here a bit high-end, consider exploring our guide to the best budget gravel bikes, which offers excellent choices at more accessible prices.
Quick Picks: Top Gravel Bikes
- Best Overall: Giant Revolt Advanced Pro
- Most Versatile: Specialized Diverge E5
- Best for Bikepacking: Trek Checkpoint SL7
- Best for 650b Compatibility: Ribble Gravel AL Sport
- Best for Gravel Racing: BMC Kaius 01
- Best for Smooth American Style Gravel: Salsa Warbird C
TOP GRAVEL BIKES OF 2024: DETAILED REVIEWS
Best Overall Gravel Bike
Giant Revolt Advanced Pro gravel bike
1. Giant Revolt Advanced Pro
Best Overall
The Giant Revolt Advanced Pro earned the title of Gravel Bike of the Year in 2023, proving its exceptional capabilities across diverse terrains. Its compliant seat post and comfortable carbon frame effectively dampen vibrations, ensuring a smooth ride. The adjustable rear dropout allows for fine-tuning the geometry to match various terrains and rider preferences.
Giant Revolt gravel bike on a blue studio background shot in three quarter view
1. Giant Revolt – Overall Winner of our Gravel Bike of the Year award in 2023.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Advanced SL-Grade Composite carbon frame
- Fork: Advanced-Grade Composite carbon
- Groupset: Shimano GRX RX815 Di2 2x
- Wheels: Giant CXR 1 Carbon
- Tyres: Maxxis Receptor, 700x40c
- Weight: 8.3kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Superior comfort in both front and rear
- Adjustable geometry for varied riding styles
- Generous 53mm max tire clearance
Reasons to Avoid:
- High front end may limit ride position adjustments
- Stock tires best suited for dry conditions
The Giant Revolt excels as an all-encompassing gravel bike, adeptly handling a broad spectrum of gravel riding scenarios. Its exceptional saddle comfort is enhanced by a D-shaped seatpost, engineered with 12mm of flex, while maintaining compatibility with standard 30.9mm round seat tubes for dropper post upgrades, beneficial for more challenging terrains.
The rear dropouts feature a two-position adjustability, allowing riders to switch between a more responsive setup for racing and a wider, more stable configuration with increased tire clearance. It also includes ample mounting points for bikepacking gear, including fork leg mounts.
The frame effectively absorbs bumps, both at the front and rear, though a shorter head tube would offer greater setup versatility.
The value proposition is particularly compelling, featuring Shimano GRX RX815 Di2 electronic shifting and Giant carbon wheels in the tested specification.
Read more: Giant Revolt Advanced Pro 0 gravel bike full review
Most Versatile Gravel Bike
Specialized Diverge E5 Comp gravel bike
2. Specialized Diverge E5
Most Versatile
The Specialized Diverge E5 is designed for versatility, appealing to riders who value adaptability. Its numerous luggage mounts and relaxed geometry cater to long-distance gravel adventures. The Future Shock front suspension enhances comfort and effectively isolates the rider from trail vibrations, though some might find the riding posture a bit too upright.
Specialized Diverge Comp Carbon which is one of the best gravel bikes
2. Specialized Diverge Comp E5 – Renowned for its versatility, making it a top choice among gravel bikes.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: E5 alloy
- Fork: Specialized Future Shock 1.5
- Groupset: SRAM Apex 1×11
- Wheels: AXIS Elite Disc
- Tyres: Specialized Pathfinder Sport 38c (Max clearance: 700x47c or 650b x 53 (2.1”))
- Weight: 10.1kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional adaptability across various gravel riding styles
- Future Shock technology for superior front-end comfort and compliance
Reasons to Avoid:
- Stock tires may compromise off-road performance in technical terrains
- Geometry might be too relaxed for riders seeking aggressive handling
If your cycling inclinations lean towards exploration and adventure, encompassing new trails, extended day rides, and occasional bikepacking expeditions, the Specialized Diverge Comp E5 is an excellent match.
It features a relaxed geometry and an elevated front end, promoting a more comfortable riding position. However, some testers noted a slight challenge in effectively weighting the front tire during sharp cornering.
The bike is equipped with a comprehensive set of mounts, including pairs under the down tube and atop the top tube, as well as triple bosses on the fork legs. It also accommodates full fenders and a pannier rack, catering to traditional luggage and weather protection setups.
A standout feature of the Diverge Comp E5 is the Future Shock 1.5, typically reserved for carbon models. This system effectively dampens trail chatter and high-frequency vibrations, although it’s not designed to replace full front suspension.
Read more: Specialized Diverge Comp Carbon full review
Best Gravel Bike for Bikepacking
Trek Checkpoint SL7 gravel bike
3. Trek Checkpoint SL7
Best for Bikepacking
The Trek Checkpoint SL7 is meticulously designed for multi-day adventures, featuring ample luggage mounts and an integrated frame storage for essential spares. Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler enhances seat tube flexibility, increasing comfort during long off-road days. Its extended wheelbase ensures stable and predictable handling, crucial for loaded touring.
Discover more about its bikepacking capabilities
Trek Checkpoint SL7 gravel bike on a blue background
3. Trek Checkpoint SL7 – Stability and comfort make the Trek Checkpoint SL7 an excellent choice for bikepacking and adventure touring.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: 500 Series OCLV Carbon
- Fork: Checkpoint Carbon
- Groupset: Shimano GRX 2x
- Wheels: WTB ST i23 TCS
- Tyres: Vittoria Terreno Dry 700x38c
- Weight: 9.2kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Extensive mounting options and high carrying capacity
- Wide tire clearance and long wheelbase for stability
- IsoSpeed seatpost decoupler enhances comfort for long rides
Reasons to Avoid:
- Higher price range compared to other reviewed gravel bikes
The Checkpoint excels in providing numerous mounting points, including on the fork legs, and incorporates Trek’s down tube storage compartment for tools and tubes. The frame accommodates 2.1″ 650b tires, and the IsoSpeed seat tube decoupler significantly enhances seated comfort.
Testers found the Checkpoint’s long wheelbase and high fork trail provided exceptional stability for extended rides without compromising responsiveness. It remains agile enough for shorter rides, whether fully loaded for bikepacking or stripped down.
Long-term testing concluded that the Checkpoint is optimally designed for long-distance gravel riding, offering reassuring handling, comfortable ride quality, and thoughtfully selected components.
Read more: Trek Checkpoint SL 7 gravel bike full review
Best Gravel Bike for 650b Wheel Compatibility
Ribble Gravel AL Sport which is one of the best gravel bikes under £2000Ribble Gravel AL Sport offers great versatility with 650b wheel compatibility and reliable Shimano GRX components.
4. Ribble Gravel AL Sport
Best for 650b Compatibility
The Ribble Gravel AL Sport stands out with its compatibility with both 700c and 650b wheels, making it highly adaptable for challenging trails. Its slack head tube angle and long, low geometry enhance stability and capability on rough terrain, while the reliable GRX 400 groupset delivers consistent performance.
Explore 650b compatibility benefits
Ribble Gravel AL Sport which is one of the best gravel bikes under £2000Ribble’s Gravel AL Sport is equipped with a dependable Shimano GRX drivetrain, suitable for varied terrains.
4. Ribble Gravel AL Sport – Provides stock wheel size options in both 700c and 650b, enhancing its versatility.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Ribble Gravel AL
- Fork: Gravel AL carbon
- Groupset: Shimano GRX RX400 2x
- Wheels: Mavic Allroad
- Tyres: WTB Sendero 650b x 47mm
- Weight: 10.9kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Comfortable ride quality with wide tires
- Excellent grip, except in very muddy conditions
- Great value for money
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks rack mounts, limiting touring capabilities
- Longer reach might not suit all riders
The Ribble Gravel AL Sport comes standard with 47mm tires on 650b wheels, with an option for 700c wheels. The 650b configuration makes it an exceptionally versatile choice for diverse terrains without being overly expensive.
The alloy frame features a long and low design with a slack head tube, extended reach, and short stem. It includes numerous mounting points, although surprisingly, rack mounts are absent. The 2×10-speed Shimano GRX 400 groupset, while entry-level in the GRX range, offers reliable performance and a wide gear range with a 30x34t low gear for challenging climbs.
Despite not being the lightest, the bike feels responsive and handles well on both rough tarmac and gravel paths, though grip can diminish in muddy conditions.
Read more: Ribble Gravel AL Sport full review
Best Gravel Bike for Racing
BMC Kaius 01 gravel bike
5. BMC Kaius 01
Best for Gravel Racing
The BMC Kaius 01 is explicitly designed for racing, featuring an aerodynamic frame and an aggressive, low riding position. Mounting points are minimal to maintain its racing focus, but it offers clearance for up to 44mm tires and a short wheelbase for agile and responsive handling.
Learn why it’s ideal for gravel racing
BMC Kaius 01 gravel bike on a grey background
5. BMC Kaius – Uncompromisingly built for speed and competitive gravel riding.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Kaius 01 Premium Carbon
- Fork: Kaius 01 Premium Carbon
- Groupset: SRAM Rival AXS Wide 2x
- Wheels: BMC CRD-400 carbon
- Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H – 40mm
- Weight: 8.9kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally fast and responsive handling
- Ride quality akin to a road bike, optimized for speed
Reasons to Avoid:
- Less comfortable compared to endurance-focused rivals
- No fender or mudguard mounts, limiting versatility in wet conditions
Positioned at the opposite end of the gravel spectrum from the Trek Checkpoint, the BMC Kaius is a dedicated gravel race bike. It adopts a low riding position and an aero frame design inspired by BMC’s Teammachine road race bikes.
The ride quality mirrors BMC’s road bikes, and it features a minimalist set of mounting points, excluding even fender/mudguard bosses. However, it accommodates tires up to 44mm, which may compensate for the frame’s stiffness and race-tuned design.
During testing, the combination of a short wheelbase and low bottom bracket was praised for delivering snappy, precise handling and remarkable speed.
This model, while more affordable than the top-tier BMC Kaius, remains pricier than the highest specification of the Giant Revolt.
Read our review of the BMC Kaius in our Gravel Bike of the Year coverage.
Best Gravel Bike for Smooth American Style Gravel
Salsa Warbird C gravel bikeThe Salsa Warbird C Sram Force AXS XPLR excels on smooth gravel roads, offering comfort and efficiency.
6. Salsa Warbird C
Best for Smooth American Style Gravel
As a pioneer in gravel bikes, the Salsa Warbird C remains true to simplicity, avoiding unnecessary complexities. This design philosophy results in unparalleled comfort and efficiency, particularly on smoother terrains. It’s ideal for riders who prioritize a seamless transition from pavement to well-maintained gravel roads.
Discover why it’s perfect for smooth gravel
yellow salsa warbird gravel bike sat at an angle on a compact woodland track in a quiet wooded areaThe Salsa Warbird C Sram Force AXS XPLR, in its element on a tranquil woodland gravel path.
6. Salsa Warbird C – Seamlessly transitions from road to dirt, ideal for mixed-surface riding.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Class 5™ VRS-equipped high-modulus carbon fiber
- Fork: Salsa Waxwing Deluxe
- Groupset: Sram Force eTap AXS
- Wheels: WTB CZR i23 carbon rim on DT Swiss 370 hubs
- Tyres: Teravail Cannonball 700c x 42mm, Durable casing, tubeless-ready
- Weight: 9.1kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally comfortable over long distances
- Compatible with both 700c and 650b wheel sizes
- Abundant luggage mounting points for versatility
- Frame-only option available for custom builds
Reasons to Avoid:
- Stock specification pricing is on the higher end
- Utilizes a press-fit bottom bracket standard
- 42mm tire clearance is somewhat narrow by current standards
Salsa is a foundational brand in the gravel bike movement, starting with the Warbird in 2012, inspired by the adoption of disc brakes in cyclocross. Now in its 4th generation, the Warbird has consistently influenced the direction of gravel bike development.
Despite its last major update in 2019, the Warbird maintains a refreshing simplicity in a market increasingly focused on aerodynamics and complex compliance systems. It prioritizes frame performance, offering seamless transitions from tarmac to gravel and smooth riding over rough surfaces, as long as conditions aren’t too extreme.
The Warbird frame-only option is exceptionally priced at $2199, allowing for customized component selection to enhance performance. In a previous review, a Warbird build included Sram Apex AXS, Hunt 40 CGR Carbon wheels, and an Ergon Allroad Carbon Post, demonstrating its potential for both speed and comfort.
Read more: Salsa Warbird C full review
Best All-Round Performance Gravel Bike
Scott Addict Gravel bike on a blue background
7. Scott Addict Gravel 10
A Great All-Round Performance Gravel Bike
The Scott Addict Gravel 10 is engineered for performance across varied terrains, balancing speed with off-road capability. While designed for speed, it’s more versatile than dedicated race bikes, suitable for both fast, technical rides and multi-day bikepacking, despite lacking fork leg mounts.
Explore its all-round performance features
Scott Addict Gravel bike on a blue background
7. Scott Addict Gravel 10 – Delivers a balanced ride suitable for both racing and adventure.
Specifications:
- Frame: Addict Gravel Disc HMF Carbon
- Fork: Addict Gravel HMF Carbon
- Groupset: SRAM Force AXS 2x
- Wheels: DT Swiss GRC1400 Disc
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Bite Performance 45mm
- Weight: 8.7kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Balanced, middle-of-the-road riding position
- Good value for the components offered
- Striking paint finish
Reasons to Avoid:
- No fork mounts, limiting bikepacking customization
The Addict Gravel balances speed with versatility, featuring a longer wheelbase and higher stack than race-focused gravel bikes like the BMC Kaius. This results in a well-rounded ride quality suitable for technical riding and bikepacking, though it lacks fork leg mounts.
The bike is noted for its attractive paint job and good value, with the SRAM Rival AXS-equipped model priced competitively against brands typically known for value.
Read our review of the Scott Addict Gravel 10 in our Gravel Bike of the Year coverage.
Most Composed Gravel Bike
Cannondale Topstone carbon three on pink background
8. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3
Most Composed
The Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 is celebrated for its composed rear end, featuring Cannondale’s Kingpin suspension system. This bike offers a unique blend of aggressive geometry and unexpected forgiveness, making it suitable for riders seeking comfort and control on rough terrains.
Understand its composed ride quality
Cannondale Topstone carbon three on pink background
8. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 – Offers the most composed rear end with options for full suspension upgrades.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: BallisTec Carbon Frame
- Fork: BallisTec Carbon
- Groupset: Shimano GRX 2x
- Wheels: WTB ST i23 TCS 650
- Tyres: Vittoria Terreno Dry 38mm
- Weight: 9.2kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent frame with 30mm of rear travel
- Enhanced traction on rough and loose surfaces
- Option to integrate Smart Sense lights/radar for safety
Reasons to Avoid:
- Front-end comfort does not match the rear suspension performance
The Cannondale Topstone Carbon features geometry that appears aggressive on paper but provides a surprisingly forgiving ride. It incorporates Cannondale’s Kingpin rear suspension, now lighter and simpler, offering 30mm of travel via a pivotless design. This enhances rear-wheel traction on rough terrain, though front-end comfort remains standard. For enhanced front comfort, the Topstone Carbon Lefty with a suspension fork is available.
Optional Cannondale Smart Sense lighting system with rearview radar can be added. Cannondale’s pricing is competitive, considering the advanced frame technology.
Testing of the Topstone 3 concluded it offers “a sublime blend of exuberance, speed, and comfort,” providing a poised and playful ride, while also being capable of carrying overnight gear for bikepacking, thanks to multiple mounting points.
Read more: Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 full review
Best Lightweight Gravel Bike
Specialized Crux Pro gravel bike
9. Specialized Crux Pro
A Lightweight Racer That Blurs Cyclocross and Gravel
The Specialized Crux Pro is a lightweight, stripped-back racer that adeptly merges cyclocross agility with gravel versatility. It’s designed for riders who prioritize speed and responsiveness, whether racing or tackling fast gravel routes.
Explore its lightweight racing design
Specialized Crux Pro gravel bike
9. Specialized Crux Pro – A lightweight racer that bridges the gap between cyclocross and gravel disciplines.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: Crux FACT 10r Carbon
- Fork: FACT Carbon
- Groupset: SRAM Force AXS
- Wheels: Roval Terra CL
- Tyres: Pathfinder Pro 38mm
- Weight: 7.4kg
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally lightweight and responsive frameset
- Agile and fast riding characteristics
- Clearance for 2.1″ 650b tires, enhancing versatility
Reasons to Avoid:
- Can feel jittery on rough surfaces with the stock 38mm tires
More affordable than the S-Works Crux, the Crux Pro remains very light and maintains the same responsive geometry as the top-spec model. This translates to rapid acceleration, though the 38mm tires may result in a less smooth ride on rougher surfaces.
Upgrading to 2.1″ 650b tires can enhance comfort and traction, and the round seatpost allows for fitting a dropper or suspension seatpost for increased adaptability.
The Crux is ideally suited for riders who want agile performance on gravel, with the capacity for high-speed riding.
Read more: Specialized Crux Pro full review
Best Gravel Bike for Custom Builds
Alexey VermeulenAlexey Vermeulen’s custom Enve MOG build showcases the bike’s potential for personalization.
10. Enve MOG
The Ultimate Gravel Bike for Personalization
The Enve MOG is perfect for cyclists looking to create a truly personalized gravel bike. As a chassis-only option from a brand known for high-quality components, it allows for complete customization, from groupsets to wheels, ensuring the bike perfectly matches your riding style and preferences.
Learn about its custom build advantages
Alexey VermeulenAlexey Vermeulen’s custom Enve MOG build demonstrates the bike’s bespoke capabilities.
10. Enve MOG – Ideal for those seeking a highly personalized and custom-built gravel bike.
Our expert review:
Specifications:
- Frame: ENVE M.O.D Carbon
- Fork: ENVE M.O.D Carbon
- Frame Weight: 950g
- Frame Kit Includes: Frame, fork, handlebar, stem, headset, and seatpost
Reasons to Buy:
- Well-balanced geometry suitable for diverse riding styles
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Extensive mounting options and downtube storage
- Threaded BB and round seat tube for ease of maintenance and customization
- Generous tire clearance
Reasons to Avoid:
- Available as chassis only, no complete bike builds offered
- Engineered around 700c wheels, potentially less versatile for 650b preferences
- Lacks geometry adjustment features
Enve has built a reputation for exceptional quality and high-performance cycling components, many manufactured in the USA. The MOG is Enve’s second bike, following the acclaimed Melee road bike launched in 2022.
The MOG includes all essential modern gravel bike features, such as ample tire clearance, frame storage, and numerous mounts. Priced at £5500/$5500 for the chassis, it offers considerable value for a brand known for its design, engineering, and quality. The kit includes a frame, fork, headset, stem, handlebar, and seatpost, aligning with brands like Trek and Specialized in terms of value proposition.
On dirt, the MOG excels, offering a balanced stiffness and comfort. It performs competitively in speed and provides confidence on descents due to its slack geometry, appealing to bikepackers and adventure riders.
Read More: Enve MOG first ride review
Gravel Bikes: Everything You Need to Know
What Exactly Are Gravel Bikes?
Gravel bikes are more than just drop-bar bicycles; they represent a category designed for versatility. While typically equipped with drop handlebars, some models now feature flat bars, expanding their usability. Essentially, gravel bikes are built to transition smoothly from paved roads to varied terrains.
Positioned between endurance road bikes, cyclocross bikes, and hardtail mountain bikes, gravel bikes offer a unique blend of capabilities. They are more agile on pavement than mountain bikes and more capable on rough surfaces than road bikes.
Key features of top gravel bikes include wider tires (35c to 50c+ on 700c or 650b wheels), ample mud clearance, and standard disc brakes. They often include mounts for bottle cages, pannier racks, and fenders, enhancing their utility for various riding needs.
Bike fit is crucial, and while not gender-specific, women’s models offer tailored features like smaller sizes and different touchpoints. For budget-conscious riders, affordable gravel bikes offer similar handling with more economical components.
The versatility of gravel bikes also extends to gear, with options ranging from Lycra to more casual attire. Gravel bike clothing guides can help navigate these choices.
Road Performance of Gravel Bikes
Gravel bikes typically feature wider tires and lower gear ratios compared to road bikes, which aids in tackling loose or hilly terrains, especially when carrying bikepacking gear. They also generally have a lower bottom bracket than cyclocross bikes, enhancing stability on rough terrain. For a detailed comparison, resources on gravel vs cyclocross bikes are available.
For those seeking extra assistance, electric gravel bikes combine all-terrain capability with electric power, offering a boost for challenging rides.
The Popularity of Gravel and Adventure Bikes
Gravel bikes and adventure road bikes have gained popularity because they bridge the gap between road cycling and off-road exploration. They allow riders to venture beyond paved roads, exploring trails and unpaved paths, without sacrificing on-road efficiency.
These bikes blend design elements from road, cyclocross, and mountain bikes, typically featuring disc brakes and clearance for wider tires as standard. While cyclocross bikes are designed for short, intense races, gravel bikes are built for longer, varied rides, accommodating both racing and adventure with features like additional tire clearance and luggage mounts.
Frame and Fork Materials in Gravel Bikes
Gravel bike frames, like road bikes, are commonly made from carbon, aluminum, titanium, or steel. Carbon and aluminum are most prevalent, with carbon being lighter and more expensive, and aluminum offering a more affordable, though heavier, alternative. Aluminum frames often allow for better components at a similar price point compared to carbon frames.
Carbon frames excel in offering tailored stiffness and compliance, while titanium offers a lively ride quality, balancing weight and strength. Steel frames provide durability and repairability, with high-end steel approaching titanium-like ride quality.
Most gravel bikes utilize carbon forks for vibration damping, a critical feature for off-road riding comfort.
Gravel Bike Geometry vs. Road Bikes
Gravel bike geometry prioritizes stability and handling on varied terrains. Compared to road bikes, they feature a longer wheelbase, slacker head tube angle, and lower bottom bracket, enhancing control on technical terrains and descents.
Rider position is generally more upright for comfort on long rides and better maneuverability over obstacles.
Gravel bike fork
Specialized Features of Gravel Bikes
Gravel bikes commonly include thru-axles and disc brakes, technologies adopted from mountain biking. Suspension systems, though less common, are also emerging. 12mm thru-axles improve disc brake alignment and frame rigidity. Rear-axle spacing is typically 142mm or 148mm Boost for enhanced wheel strength.
Adventure-focused frames often include mounts for racks and fenders, increasing versatility for commuting and touring. Extreme adventure models may feature additional fork leg and frame mounts for extensive luggage options.
Components of Gravel and Adventure Bikes
Gravel bikes feature specialized components tailored for off-road and mixed-terrain riding.
Best Tires for Gravel and Adventure Bikes
Tire widths on gravel bikes range from 28c to 47c+, with varied tread patterns to suit different conditions—from mud-specific treads to low-rolling resistance options for mixed surfaces. Tire choice significantly impacts ride quality and performance, and experimenting with different treads and widths is recommended. Tubeless setups are highly beneficial for gravel riding, improving comfort and puncture resistance.
Gearing Options for Gravel Bikes
Gravel bikes typically offer a wide gear range to handle both on-road and off-road conditions, including steep climbs and loose surfaces. Options include 1x and 2x drivetrains. 1x systems offer simplicity and tire clearance but may have wider gear jumps, while 2x systems provide more gear range with finer increments, suitable for varied terrains. Low gearing is common, often below a 1:1 ratio, for climbing and load-carrying.
Pedals for Gravel and Adventure Bikes
Pedal choice depends on riding style and terrain. Road clipless pedals are suitable for smoother paths, while mountain bike-style pedals with recessed cleats are better for off-road riding, offering easier walking and foot engagement. Gravel bike pedals often balance efficiency with walkability.
Components to Expect on Top Gravel Bikes
Disc brakes are standard on gravel bikes for consistent performance in all conditions. Hydraulic disc brakes are common on higher-end models, while mechanical disc brakes are found on budget bikes. Gravel-specific groupsets like Shimano GRX and SRAM’s gravel groups are prevalent.
Handlebar choices vary, with flared bars being a popular upgrade for enhanced stability and control on rough terrain. Suspension forks and dropper posts are also increasingly available, adding further off-road capability.
How We Test Gravel Bikes
Cycling Weekly employs a dedicated team of testers who conduct thorough, objective reviews of cycling products. Gravel bike testing involves extensive mileage across diverse terrains, from technical trails to bikepacking routes and paved roads. Bikes are evaluated based on comfort, handling, terrain suitability, component quality, durability, and overall value. This rigorous testing ensures unbiased and practical assessments for readers.
