Gravel bikes are bikes equipped with curved handlebars, like a classic road bike, designed to ride on a variety of surfaces. They have the necessary features to ride both on and off-road.
This is ideal if you want to go on a ride that includes different terrains, as they can handle the road, gravel, forest, and much more. So you don't have to worry about getting off your road bike when you reach a gravel section, these bikes can handle it all with ease. Here are some other advantages of gravel bikes:
1. Versatility
We have already mentioned this point, but the extent of a gravel bike's versatility cannot be overstated. You can take them on almost any type of trail, except for very technical mountain bike tracks.
This allows you to plan rides with mixed-terrain routes. You can even use them comfortably for longer trips, as they are comfortable and provide enough space to carry your gear and accessories.
If you are looking to become an elite racer, this is not the bike for you. But if you are looking for a versatile bike that can handle almost anything you throw at it, look no further.
2. Tyre options
Another great advantage of gravel bikes is that they are not limited in the choice of tyres you can fit, unlike traditional road bikes. You can fit wider wheels and tyres without worrying about tyre clearance or brake calipers.
If you plan to ride on very rough or softer surfaces, you can fit knobbly tyres that offer better grip. For gravel or other rough terrains, slightly wider gravel tyres are recommended as they add more stability and comfort.
You can also use these tyres on the road as long as you are not looking to achieve very high speeds. If you want to go faster on the road, it is easy to swap the tyres for thinner, faster road tyres.
3. Better handling
Thanks to the design of gravel bikes, they tend to perform better than many other bike options on uneven surfaces. Their long wheelbase, flared handlebars, wide tyres, and more relaxed head tube angle make gravel bikes more stable and balanced.
Flared handlebars are a particularly important feature that can help you manage tight turns and tricky situations. Indeed, the greater width of the handlebars provides a more natural hand position for the rider. This is also very useful for descending hills with difficult terrain.
Moreover, they are well designed so that the steering is not disturbed even when you load accessories and equipment. These bikes are also better able to withstand the abuse of rough trails as they are designed for tougher terrains.
4. The perfect adventure bike
Gravel bikes are perfect for adventure. They are more comfortable for long rides than most other styles of bikes. This is due to the more relaxed and upright position their design offers, as well as the frames and seat posts that dampen vibrations and bumps from the road.
Thanks to the versatility of a gravel bike, you will be able to handle all the surfaces that your adventure will throw at you. Moreover, as mentioned, these bikes can carry a lot of equipment while remaining stable.
You can choose a bike with integrated mounts, which means your gear will stay secure and won’t risk falling or shifting during your ride. You also won’t risk damaging the bike itself with additional mounts you might add yourself.
With a gravel bike, you will be ready to set off on many adventures and achieve all the cycling goals you have set for yourself.
5. Design options
Like most bikes today, gravel bikes are available in carbon or aluminium. Aluminium is affordable, durable, and relatively light. Carbon gravel bikes are the lightest on the market and can be designed to offer the right balance between stiffness and comfort. The choice of material will depend on your budget.
You can also choose other additional features such as enhanced suspension, telescopic seat posts, or even opt for an electric gravel bike.
Buy a gravel bike today
Thanks to their versatility and the adventure opportunities they offer, gravel bikes can revolutionise the way you cycle. If you are looking for a bike that can take you from forest paths to city streets, you should consider choosing a gravel bike.
Come ride with us.