Gravel Bike Buying Guides

What Sets Gravel Bikes Apart

Gravel bikes offer a unique riding experience that makes them ideal for traveling long distances on a variety of paved and wilderness trails.

• Versatility: Gravel bikes are designed to handle a wide range of terrain, making them ideal for both on-road and off-road riding.
• Comfort: With features like wider tires than road bikes, and sometimes even a full suspension, gravel bikes provide a smoother, more comfortable ride on gravel and dirt paths.
• Designed to carry: Gravel bikes typically come with a ton of attachment points on the frame and front fork so users can carry a variety of packs and water bottles on their long-distance trips.

Tips for Choosing the Right Gravel Bike

Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect gravel bike:

• Riding Style: Consider your riding style and the terrain you'll be tackling. Are you riding more on paved roads and just need to go off pavement now and then, or are you planning on riding mostly on trails with some technical sections mixed in?
• Fit: Take the time to test ride different models to find the one that feels best for you. Fit is always the most important feature of any bike.
• Mounting Points: Look for a bike with ample mounting points for racks, panniers, and water bottle cages to accommodate your gear and supplies.
• Tire Clearance: Choose a bike with generous tire clearance to accommodate wider tires for added stability and traction.
• Gearing: Opt for a wide range of gears to tackle both steep climbs and long, fast pavement sections.
• Suspension Fork: Consider a bike with a suspension fork for improved comfort on rough trails.
• Braking System: Choose reliable disc brakes for consistent stopping power, especially when riding with a heavy load or in adverse weather conditions.
• Vibration Dampening: Look for features like vibration-damping seatposts or handlebars. You can also add these yourself as an upgrade.
• Grip Positions: Having variety of grip positions available on the bars is a life saver during long rides.