Gravel bikes, also known as adventure bikes, are designed to conquer a variety of surfaces, right from challenging gravel paths and smooth roads to even light trails. As Steven Rindner mentions, gravel bicycles are usually equipped with drop handlebars, which are crafted specifically to enable the cyclists navigate varied types of surfaces effortlessly. The sporty frame geometry of gravel bikes and their drop handlebar facilitate efficient road cycling. However, owing to the lower gear ratios, broader tires and steady handling of gravel bikes, it also enables cyclists to venture off the beaten path with a strong sense of assurance.
Steven Rindner highlights a few of the key types of gravel bikes
Gravel bikes are an ideal choice for cyclists who do not commit to one type of terrain. Gravel bikes are a versatile all-rounder which combines the robustness of a mountain bike with the speed of a road bike. It is well-suited for cyclists looking for a bicycle that can handle their daily commute to work as well as weekend adventures off-road. Many ambitious road cyclists today choose to ride on gravel in order to train in a peaceful surrounding, away from gravel.
A gravel bike can be described as a hybrid that combines the best elements of both road bikes and mountain bikes. First developed in the United States, this style of bicycle was created to support long-distance riding on unpaved surfaces, commonly referred to as gravel roads. Over time, the idea has gained strong popularity in Europe as well, where it is now recognized as a bike that offers both athletic performance and comfort across a wide range of terrains.
Here are some of the common types of gravel bikes:
- All-round gravel bike: The classic all-round gravel bike is quite versatile. It is perfect for sporty rides, weekend tours and even daily commuting. An all-round gravel bicycle ideally combines balanced geometry with moderate tire width.
- Adventure gravel bike: This type of gravel bikes is built for rougher terrain. They have greater tire clearance, at times with suspension forks or suspension seat posts, along with multiple attachment options for luggage. An adventure gravel bike would be a good choice for demanding tours and multi-day off-road excursions.
- Bikepacking gravel bike: Bikepacking gravel bikes are typically designed for multi-day tours with light luggage. Such bikes tend to be equipped with mounting options for frame bags, handlebar bags and saddle bags. Their geometry is comfortable, with a focus on versatility and dependability.
- Race gravel bike: Designed for sporty cyclists who want to pick up speed, a race gravel bike is generally stiff and lightweight. Its design is similar to road bikes but with a more aggressive riding position and narrower but still profiled tires.
As per Steven Rindner, gravel bikes are designed with specific characteristics that set them apart from other bicycle types. They usually feature a slightly stretched frame similar to that of a road bike, which allows for efficient pedaling over long distances. At the same time, they are equipped with wider, treaded tires that provide better grip and stability on loose or uneven surfaces. The riding position is comfortable yet still sporty, striking a balance between endurance and performance.
