Everything You Need To Know About Gravel Bikes

Everything to Everyone: The Rise of Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes have surged in popularity, raising the question: are they an industry creation or a long-needed category? A look back at bike categories reveals their evolution and the unique niche gravel bikes fill in the cycling world.

Traditional Categories

Historically, bikes were categorized into four main types:

1. Road Bikes: These bikes are characterized by skinny tyres and racier geometries. They are built for speed and efficiency on paved surfaces. Road bikes typically feature drop handlebars, which offer multiple hand positions and an aerodynamic riding posture. The exception within this category is the touring bike, which, while still designed for road use, prioritises comfort and load-carrying capacity over speed.
2. Cyclocross Bikes: Cyclocross bikes are similar to road bikes but are designed for off-road racing on varied terrain, including grass, mud, and sand. They come with 33-35mm knobbly tyres that provide better traction on loose surfaces. These bikes also have drop handlebars but are built to handle the rigours of cyclocross courses, which include obstacles requiring riders to dismount and carry their bikes.
3. Mountain Bikes (MTB): Mountain bikes are designed for off-road cycling on rough terrain. They feature flat or straight handlebars for better control and stability. MTBs come with wide, knobbly tyres for traction and shock absorption, as well as suspension systems (either front, full, or none) to handle bumps and jumps on trails.
4. Hybrids: Hybrid bikes combine elements of road and mountain bikes. They are designed for versatility, making them suitable for light trails and urban commuting. Hybrids typically have flat or straight handlebars and medium-width tyres that balance speed and comfort. They are popular among casual riders who need a bike for various surfaces and conditions.

The Emergence of Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes have carved out a niche by blending the characteristics of road and cyclocross bikes, creating a versatile and comfortable ride suitable for various terrains. They cater to the comfort and endurance needs of typical Western European cyclists, who often encounter a mix of paved roads and rough trails. Essentially, gravel bikes are drop-handlebar versions of hybrids, offering the best of both worlds.

Gravel bikes emerged as a response to the limitations of traditional bike categories. Road bikes, while fast and efficient on smooth surfaces, struggle on rough or unpaved roads. Cyclocross bikes, though more capable off-road, are designed for short, intense races rather than long-distance comfort. Mountain bikes, while excellent on trails, are often overkill for mixed-surface rides and less efficient on paved roads. Hybrids offer versatility but lack the performance and ergonomics of drop-handlebar bikes.

Gravel bikes fill this gap by providing a versatile, comfortable, and capable ride for a wide range of surfaces. They combine the speed and efficiency of road bikes, the off-road capability of cyclocross bikes, and the comfort and versatility of hybrids. This makes them ideal for riders who want a single bike that can handle various terrains, from smooth tarmac to rugged trails.

Gravel Bike Subcategories

Gravel bikes can be further divided into several subcategories, each catering to different riding styles and preferences:

1. Allroad: These bikes come with 30-35mm tyres, making them suitable for a mix of smooth roads and light gravel paths. They are ideal for riders who primarily ride on paved surfaces but want the option to explore unpaved roads occasionally.

1. Gravel: These bikes feature 35-40mm tyres, providing a balance between road performance and off-road capability. They are perfect for riders who regularly venture onto gravel paths and mixed surfaces but still want a bike that performs well on tarmac.
2. Gravel Adventure: These bikes come with 40-50mm tyres and wider handlebars for better control on technical terrain. They are designed for riders who frequently tackle rough trails and technical descents, offering enhanced stability and comfort.

Each subcategory caters to different riding conditions and preferences, allowing riders to choose a bike that best suits their needs. All gravel bikes share certain features, such as relaxed geometries for control and rider comfort, low gear ratios for steep gradients, and often, but not always, mudguard compatibility for riding in various weather conditions.

Versatility on Tarmac and Trails

One of the key advantages of gravel bikes is their versatility. Many gravel bikes, especially lighter-duty models, can double as endurance road or touring bikes. This versatility is achieved through a few key design features:

1. Relaxed Geometry: Gravel bikes have a more relaxed geometry compared to traditional road bikes. This means a more upright riding position, which enhances comfort over long distances and rough terrain. The relaxed geometry also provides better control and stability on uneven surfaces.
2. Wide Tyre Clearance: Gravel bikes are designed to accommodate wider tires, which provide better traction and comfort on rough roads. The ability to switch between different tire sizes allows riders to customize their bike for specific conditions. For example, a gravel bike can be fitted with smooth road tyres for tarmac use or wider, knobbly tyres for off-road adventures.
3. Low Gear Ratios: Gravel bikes come with low gear ratios to handle steep gradients and rough terrain. This makes them capable of tackling challenging climbs and technical trails. At the same time, these bikes can be used for long-distance road rides by fitting higher gear ratios and smooth tyres.
4. Durability and Comfort: Gravel bikes are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding while providing a comfortable ride. They often feature reinforced frames and durable components to handle rough conditions. Additionally, gravel bikes are designed with rider comfort in mind, with features such as wider saddles, vibration-damping materials, and ergonomic handlebars.
5. Mudguard Compatibility: Many gravel bikes come with mounts for mudguards, allowing riders to stay dry and clean in wet conditions. This feature is particularly useful for commuters and touring cyclists who ride in various weather conditions.

Due to their versatility, gravel bikes can be easily adapted for different types of riding. All that is needed is a change of tyres to switch from off-road to tarmac riding. Some cyclists even invest in a second set of wheels, one with gravel tyres and one with road tyres, allowing them to seamlessly switch between disciplines. This flexibility makes gravel bikes a popular choice for riders who want a single bike that can handle a variety of terrains and riding styles.

Additional Features and Considerations

When choosing a gravel bike, there are several additional features and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Gearing: Gravel bikes are available with either single-chainring (1x) or double-chainring (2x) setups. A 1x setup is simpler and more reliable, with fewer components to maintain and less chance of chain drops. However, it comes at the expense of larger jumps between gears, which can make it harder to find the perfect cadence on mixed terrain. A 2x setup offers a wider range of gears and smaller jumps between them, making it better suited for tarmac riding and varied terrain.
2. Electric Shifting: Electric shifting systems, such as Shimano Di2 or SRAM eTap, offer precise and reliable gear changes, even under load. These systems are particularly beneficial for adverse-condition riding, as they use closed cabling or wireless technology to prevent mud and dirt from affecting performance. Electric shifting also allows for customizable shift patterns and gear mapping, enhancing the riding experience.
3. Electric Assist: Many gravel bikes now come with the option of electric assist, providing extra power for challenging climbs and long rides. Electric-assist gravel bikes typically come with a weight penalty of around 6kg and a higher price tag, but they offer a fun and capable ride, especially off-road. The additional power can make it easier to tackle steep gradients and rough terrain, extending the range and enjoyment of your rides.
4. Tubeless vs. Tubes: Tubeless tyres are a popular choice for gravel bikes, as they allow for lower pressure setups without the risk of pinch flats. This provides better traction and comfort on rough terrain. Tubeless tyres also have the added benefit of self-sealing small punctures, reducing the risk of flats. However, they require more maintenance and a higher initial setup cost compared to traditional tubes.
5. Frame Materials: Gravel bikes are available in various frame materials, each offering different characteristics:
6. Aluminium: Aluminium frames are durable, affordable, and provide a good balance of weight and stiffness. They are a popular choice for entry-level and mid-range gravel bikes.
7. Carbon: Carbon frames are lightweight and offer excellent vibration damping, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. They are more expensive but are favoured by performance-oriented riders.
8. Titanium: Titanium frames are strong, durable, and provide a smooth ride quality. They are more expensive than aluminium but are favoured by riders looking for a high-end, long-lasting bike.

1. Steel: Steel frames are known for their durability and comfort, providing a smooth and resilient ride. They are heavier than aluminium and carbon but are favoured by touring cyclists and those seeking a classic feel.

Exploring Gravel Bikes on Cheshire Bikes

Cheshire Bikes offers a wide range of gravel bikes, catering to various needs and preferences. You can use the search facility on our website to explore bikes by category. For example, simply type in "gravel" to return details of all our gravel bikes. Here are a few examples in each subcategory:

Allroad Gravel Bikes:

1. Paralane Ultegra Di2: The Paralane Ultegra Di2 is a standout with its slimmer hydraulic levers, new rotors (enclosed for safety and with revised fins for extra cooling), and trickle-down rear mech technology from the higher-end Dura-Ace groupset. It features a long-cage mech variant to run up to 34T at the back, revised front mech design to accommodate wider tires, and full Synchro Shift mode, which requires only one shifter to utilize the full range of gears. The bike also comes with Mavic Ksyrium wheels and Continental GP 4000 tires, making for a stunning overall package.
2. Terra G: This superb allroad/gravel bike offers no compromises, with a full Shimano 105 hydraulic disc groupset, quality finishing kit, and factory Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 wheelset. It is a high-quality bike that performs well on both road and gravel surfaces.

Gravel Bikes:

1. Terra: One of our best-selling bikes in 2024, the Terra is super versatile for road or gravel work. It is available with manual or electric shifting, and in carbon or titanium variants, making it a popular choice for a wide range of riders.

Gravel Adventure Bikes:

1. Terra Rival: This super high-tech gravel/endurance bike features wireless 12-speed shifting, bigger tire clearances, and a very wide gear range to tackle the steepest of gradients. It is equipped with top-notch componentry, including Fulcrum factory wheels, and features a striking 4-way iridescent flip colour paint.
2. Whyte Gisburn: The Gisburn is a proper gravel bike with gravel geometry, wide gravel bars, a dropper seatpost, big tyres, and 1x12 electric shifting. It is designed for serious off-road riding, with easy-clean gloss grey paintwork.
3. Whyte Dean: With a 2x10 Shimano GRX groupset, full hydraulic brakes, and tubeless tyres, the Dean offers the latest leading gravel technology combined with Whyte's acclaimed gravel geometry. It features wider handlebars for better handling and control on technical terrain.

Electric Gravel Bikes:

1. Orro Terra E Flatbar: Nearly as light as many road endurance bikes, thanks to the awesome new FSA HM1 electric motor system. Available in both drop handlebar and flat bar variants, this bike offers the versatility and power needed for various riding conditions.
2. Orro Terra E Dropbar: Another great option for electric-assisted gravel riding, featuring a lightweight design and powerful motor system.
3. Additionally, you can check out our reviews of gravel bikes on our Cheshire Bikes youtube channel including of the Advanced Offroad Pro Gravel with Bosch's new Performance SX mid-mounted motor. This bike is a beast, offering exceptional off-road performance and versatility.

Visit Us Online or In-Store

For more information and expert guidance on choosing the perfect gravel bike, visit Cheshire Bikes online or in-store. Our knowledgeable staff can help you navigate the various options and find the bike that best suits your needs and riding style. Whether you're looking for a versatile allroad bike, a capable gravel bike, or a high-tech gravel adventure bike, we have something for everyone.

The Evolution and Impact of Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes have significantly impacted the cycling industry, reshaping how people think about and engage with cycling. Their versatility and capability have opened new possibilities for riders, allowing them to explore a wider range of terrains and experiences. This section delves deeper into the evolution, impact, and future of gravel bikes.

The concept of gravel bikes evolved from the need for a versatile bike that could handle a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. Early adopters often modified cyclocross or road bikes to better suit their needs, adding wider tyres and making adjustments to the geometry and components. These early experiments highlighted the potential of a bike designed specifically for mixed-surface riding.

As interest grew, bike manufacturers began to recognize the demand for a dedicated gravel bike category. The first commercially available gravel bikes appeared in the early 2010s, quickly gaining popularity among riders looking for a versatile and capable bike. These early models laid the foundation for the gravel bikes we see today, incorporating lessons learned from cyclocross, road, and mountain biking.

Over the years, gravel bikes have continued to evolve, with manufacturers experimenting with different frame materials, geometries, and components to optimize performance and comfort. Innovations such as wider tire clearances, dropper seatposts, and advanced gearing systems have further enhanced the capabilities of gravel bikes, making them a popular choice for a wide range of riding styles and conditions.

The Impact of Gravel Bikes on Cycling

The rise of gravel bikes has had a profound impact on the cycling industry and community. Here are some key ways gravel bikes have influenced the world of cycling:

1. Increased Accessibility: Gravel bikes have made cycling more accessible to a broader audience. Their versatility and comfort make them suitable for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cyclists. The ability to handle a variety of terrains allows riders to explore new routes and experiences, breaking away from the confines of traditional road or mountain biking.
2. Expanded Riding Opportunities: Gravel bikes have opened up new riding opportunities, encouraging cyclists to explore unpaved roads, gravel paths, and mixed-surface routes. This has led to the growth of gravel-specific events and races, such as gravel grinders and adventure rides, attracting a diverse group of participants and fostering a sense of community.
3. Innovative Product Development: The popularity of gravel bikes has driven innovation in the cycling industry, with manufacturers developing new technologies and components to meet the demands of gravel riding. This includes advancements in frame materials, tire design, gearing systems, and electronic shifting, benefiting not only gravel bikes but also other bike categories.
4. Sustainability and Adventure: Gravel bikes align with the growing trend of sustainable and adventure-oriented travel. They allow riders to explore remote and scenic areas, promoting a connection with nature and a sense of adventure. This has led to an increase in bikepacking and multi-day gravel tours, encouraging a more sustainable and immersive way to experience the outdoors.
5. Market Growth: The gravel bike market has experienced significant growth, with a surge in sales and new product offerings. This growth has attracted investment and innovation, further fuelling the development of gravel-specific gear and accessories. The success of gravel bikes has also influenced the design and marketing of other bike categories, as manufacturers recognize the demand for versatile and capable bikes.

The Future of Gravel Bikes

The future of gravel bikes looks promising, with continued growth and innovation on the horizon. Here are some trends and developments to watch for in the coming years:

1. Advancements in Frame Materials: As technology advances, we can expect to see new frame materials and manufacturing techniques that improve the performance and durability of gravel bikes. This includes the development of lightweight and strong materials that enhance ride quality and reduce weight.
2. Integration of Technology: The integration of technology into gravel bikes will continue to evolve, with advancements in electronic shifting, smart sensors, and connectivity features. This includes the development of integrated navigation systems, ride tracking, and performance analytics, providing riders with a more connected and informed riding experience.
3. Customization and Personalization: The trend towards customization and personalization will continue, with more options for riders to tailor their bikes to their specific needs and preferences. This includes adjustable geometries, modular components, and a wider range of colour and design options.
4. Sustainability Initiatives: As the cycling industry becomes more environmentally conscious, we can expect to see a focus on sustainability in gravel bike production and design. This includes the use of eco-friendly materials, sustainable manufacturing practices, and initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of cycling products.
5. Expansion of Gravel-Specific Events: The popularity of gravel-specific events and races will continue to grow, with more opportunities for riders to participate in organized rides and challenges. This includes the expansion of gravel grinder events, adventure tours, and bikepacking expeditions, fostering a vibrant and inclusive gravel cycling community.
6. Enhanced Comfort and Performance: Manufacturers will continue to refine the design of gravel bikes to enhance comfort and performance. This includes the development of advanced suspension systems, ergonomic components, and vibration-damping technologies that improve ride quality on rough terrain.

Conclusion

Gravel bikes have transformed the cycling landscape, offering a versatile and capable option for riders seeking adventure, comfort, and performance on a variety of terrains. Their rise in popularity reflects a growing demand for bikes that can handle diverse riding conditions and provide a seamless transition between tarmac and trails.

As gravel bikes continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly shape the future of cycling, driving innovation and expanding the possibilities for riders around the world. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer to the sport, a gravel bike offers a world of opportunities to explore, connect, and enjoy the freedom of riding on any surface.

At Cheshire Bikes, we are committed to helping you find the perfect gravel bike for your needs. Visit us online or in-store for expert guidance and explore our wide range of gravel bikes designed to suit every rider and adventure.