What defines
the perfect gravel bike?
Frame
A light and stiff carbon or aluminum frame with its integrated “flex zones” offers the perfect compromise between sportiness and comfort. Panniers or mudguards can be mounted at various attachment points. You tend to sit more upright on a gravel bike and the longer wheelbase ensures a smooth ride off-road. The frames also offer space for wide, off-road tires.
Drive
Gear groups with 22 or 24 gears offer a wide range of gear ratios and a fine gear gradation. 1x drivetrains do not require a front derailleur and are lighter and easier to maintain. However, you have to make concessions in terms of gear variety.
Handlebars
Wider handlebars with outwardly projecting handlebar ends (“flare”) improve handling on unpaved roads.
Wheels
The wheels should be light but robust at the same time. This is why wider rims are used to ensure optimum traction and lateral grip even with low tire pressure.
Tires
Gravel tires are usually between 35 and 45 mm wide. The larger volume in combination with the right tread pattern generates riding comfort and wheel control.
Brakes
Disc brakes stop reliably in all weather conditions. Brake discs with a diameter of 160 mm are usually fitted to the bikes.
What defines the perfect gravelbike?
Frame
A light and stiff carbon or aluminum frame with its integrated “flex zones” offers the perfect compromise between sportiness and comfort. Panniers or mudguards can be mounted at various attachment points. You tend to sit more upright on a gravel bike and the longer wheelbase ensures a smooth ride off-road. The frames also offer space for wide, off-road tires.
Handlebars
Wider handlebars with outwardly projecting handlebar ends (“flare”) improve handling on unpaved roads.
Brakes
Disc brakes stop reliably in all weather conditions. Brake discs with a diameter of 160 mm are usually fitted to the bikes.
Drive
Gear groups with 22 or 24 gears offer a wide range of gear ratios and a fine gear gradation. 1x drivetrains do not require a front derailleur and are lighter and easier to maintain. However, you have to make concessions in terms of gear variety.
Tires
Gravel tires are usually between 35 and 45 mm wide. The larger volume in combination with the right tread pattern generates riding comfort and wheel control.
Wheels
The wheels should be light but robust at the same time. This is why wider rims are used to ensure optimum traction and lateral grip even with low tire pressure.