What is a Gravel Bike?

A gravel bike also referred to as an adventure bike or all-road bike, stands out as a multifaceted bicycle engineered to tackle diverse surfaces like gravel roads, dirt trails, and even pavement. It seamlessly blends aspects from road bikes, known for their elegant frames and aerodynamic geometry, with influences from mountain bikes, including wider tyres and reliable disc brakes, to bolster stability and manoeuvrability across challenging terrains.

Choosing the perfect Gravel Bike

Frame Material and Geometry: Selecting the right gravel bike involves considering frame material and geometry. Aluminium, steel, and carbon fibre are common options, each with unique weight, durability, and ride qualities. Also, assess geometry: relaxed for stability on long rides, or aggressive for better performance on technical terrain.

Tyre Clearance and Wheel Size: When choosing a gravel bike, prioritize tire clearance and wheel size. Look for ample clearance to fit wider tyres, typically 35mm to 47mm or wider, based on your intended terrain. Decide between 700c and 650b wheels, each offering distinct advantages in speed, traction, and comfort on varied surfaces.

Drivetrain and Gearing: Evaluate the drivetrain and gearing options to suit your riding needs. Consider the terrain you'll be riding and select a drivetrain with gearing ratios that provide ample range for climbing steep hills and cruising on flat terrain.

Suspension: Determine whether you need a gravel bike with suspension features to enhance comfort and control on rough terrain. Suspension can help absorb bumps and vibrations, providing a smoother ride, but may add weight and complexity to the bike.

What is the purpose of Gravel bike?

Versatile Terrain Exploration: Gravel bikes are designed to traverse a wide range of surfaces, including gravel roads, dirt paths, paved roads, and mixed terrain. Their capability to handle diverse surfaces makes them ideal for riders who enjoy exploring different landscapes without being limited by road conditions.

Adventure and Exploration: Gravel biking offers riders the opportunity to embark on adventures beyond traditional road cycling routes. With the ability to venture into remote areas, traverse rugged terrain, and discover scenic landscapes, gravel bikes facilitate adventurous exploration and outdoor experiences.

Comfortable and Endurance-Focused Riding: Gravel bikes often feature relaxed geometry and wider tyres, providing a more comfortable riding experience, especially on longer rides and rough terrain. This focus on comfort and endurance makes gravel bikes suitable for riders seeking to cover longer distances or participate in endurance events.

Multi-Day Touring and Bikepacking: Gravel bikes are well-suited for multi-day touring and bikepacking adventures, allowing riders to carry essential gear and supplies for extended journeys. With mounting points for racks, bags, and water bottles, gravel bikes enable riders to pack efficiently and comfortably for overnight stays and remote exploration.

What types of terrain are gravel bikes suitable for?

Gravel bikes are designed to handle various terrains, including Gravel roads, Dirt trails, Pavement, Light singletrack, Mixed-surface routes

How is a gravel bike different from a road bike?

Gravel bikes differ from road bikes in several ways

• Wider tyres and more tyre clearance
• More relaxed geometry for comfort and stability
• Disc brakes instead of rim brakes
• Additional mounting points for gear and accessories

What size gravel bike do I need?

The right size depends on your height and inseam length. Most brands provide size charts to help you choose the correct frame size.

Can I use a gravel bike for bikepacking?

Yes, gravel bikes are excellent for bikepacking. They are designed to carry gear and handle rough terrain, making them ideal for multi-day adventures and long-distance touring.

What accessories are useful for a gravel bike?

Useful accessories for gravel bikes include:

• Helmet
• Lights (front and rear)
• Bike lock
• Water bottle cages
• Multi-tool and repair kit
• Fenders (for wet conditions)

How often should I service my gravel bike?

It's recommended to service your gravel bike every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you ride and the conditions you ride in. Regular maintenance includes cleaning, lubricating the chain, checking tyre pressure, and inspecting brakes and gears.

Can I use a gravel bike for commuting?

Yes, gravel bikes suit commuting, especially if your route includes mixed surfaces. Their versatility and ability to carry gear make them a practical choice for daily use.