What is Gravel?
First introduced in the United States many years ago, the Gravel is in its infancy in Europe, but is growing in popularity thanks to its playfulness and the emergence of dedicated races and tours. With its ability to mix road, trail, track and forest path riding, Gravel is above all defined by a unique state of mind: that of going on an adventure, getting off the beaten track and being able to go anywhere with a single bike. A discipline where the quest for pleasure takes precedence over the quest for performance.
Special features of Gravel bikes
Although aesthetically similar to a Cyclocross bike, a Gravel bike is less demanding both physically and technically. It is characterized by a number of distinctive features that guarantee maximum versatility and comfort of use, even over time. A Gravel frame is sloping (from the English "slope" (inclination), this term is used to distinguish frames whose horizontal tube connecting the seat tube to the head tube is inclined). The slope is designed to ensure maximum riding pleasure on all types of terrain. The steering angle is more open, the bottom bracket lower and the chainstays longer.
Gravel bikes are also equipped with disc brakes, front and rear derailleurs. hangers road handlebars to optimize steering efficiency, and shorter rear sprockets often combined with a single chainring front crankset. Finally, some models feature Gravel Plus technology, allowing 650B wheels to be fitted in the same way as 700C wheels. tires from 25 to 55 mm in cross-section, although the norm is between 35 and 40 mm. In all cases, if possible, opt for a Tubeless / Tubeless Ready wheel/tire system - i.e. tubeless - which will give you greater comfort, performance and grip, and above all greatly reduce the risk of punctures, which are very common in this type of riding.
Gravel and much more!
Incredibly versatile, the Gravel is at the crossroads of many paths.
Beyond its initial use, it can also be used for hiking or travelling (some models have eyelets for mounting luggage racks and mudguards), commuting (velotaf), taking a long road trip or even discovering the pleasure of cyclocross in a more accessible way, although once again, a gravel bike is very different from a Cyclocross bike, with much less exclusive geometry.
Which bike is right for me?
As you can see, there are as many different types of gravel bike as there are different ways of approaching this hybrid sport. Depending on your current equipment and philosophy, your choice will obviously not be for the same frame, starting with the frame material.
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Steel
Steel frames guarantee excellent comfort and strength. They're ideal for mainly off-road use, on technical and rough trails.
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Aluminum
An aluminum frame is the ideal choice if you're looking for a lighter, more dynamic bike for road use. This material is also the most affordable in terms of budget.
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Carbon
Carbon frames, on the other hand, will perfectly meet the expectations of the most demanding riders or those wishing to indulge themselves with a model that is light, comfortable and responsive.
If you already own a mountain bike and want to try something new, you can opt for a bike with 700c wheels, 35 or 38 mm tires and a Compact (50/34) or Sub-Compact (46/36) drivetrain.
On the other hand, if you come from a road background, a more off-road-oriented Gravel bike (with 650B wheels, large 45 or 50 mm tires and a single-plate drivetrain) could be an interesting complement.
Finally, if you're looking for an all-purpose bike, opt for a model that's as versatile as possible, accepting both 650B and 700c wheels, even if it means buying an extra set of wheels to have two bikes-in-one, and upgradeable in terms of drivetrain (single chainring allowing you to easily change gearing to suit your profile, double chainring with long-cage rear derailleur, etc.).
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