Gravel Bike: A multi-purpose bike for rain or shine

Starting out on the other side of the Atlantic, the gravel bike is now making its way to Europe, where it's making a name for itself in the cycling world. Its versatile nature is shaking up habits and winning over enthusiasts who don't want to make the concession of a long ride on asphalt, nor that of evolving on steep natural trails. Here's a look at one of the most promising two-wheelers around!

What is a gravel bike?

The unsightly French name "vélo de gravier" (gravel bike) for this type of hybrid machine refers first and foremost to the eponymous sport of gravel cycling. Tracing its roots in the wide-open spaces of the USA, the sport alternates between cycling on roads, and passages on paths, like cyclo-cross. The tool - the bike - is thus adapted, from its very conception, to the alternation between terrains.

What makes a gravel bike different from a conventional bike?

The main differences with conventional bikes (mountain bikes, road bikes, etc.) can be seen in the overall shape and equipment.

To maintain maneuverability and stability, the gravel benefits from enlarged chainstays enabling larger tubeless tires to be fitted than on a road bike, thereby reducing the possibility of punctures. The head tube is also modified, as it is higher. The handlebars, meanwhile, remain inspired by their road brethren; representative of racing handlebars, curved (but more flared at the bottom) and allowing road endurance positions to be taken.

To propel the beast, the single-plate transmission offers an average row of gears up to 11, or even 13, controlled by a lever for up and down (in order of use).

Finally, the unavoidable disc brakes provide a real layer of safety, and are most optimized (lightweight, reliable, easy to maintain).

We also note the significant absence of suspension on this type of cycle, in the majority of cases.

At the crossroads, the potential of this crossbred two-wheeler is therefore enormous; more than a mountain bike, the gravel bike is designed AND optimized for all terrains.

Customizable and scalable ...

In addition to the half-road/half-cross base we've just discussed, gravel offer numerous opportunities for customization; in particular, it's possible, to gain in comfort, to add mudguards or luggage racks to one's gravel.

In addition, the frame, meanwhile, is, perfectly suited to the installation of simple bikepacking, using velcro and straps.

In terms of equipment, brands are becoming increasingly innovative, offering a wide range of kits for enthusiasts wishing to prepare their machines for road or nature outings!

The current trend towards electric-assist bicycles (VAE) is also gaining ground. This subject has democratized the practice of cycling. Conclusion: it's the talk of the town! And good surprise, muscle bike manufacturers are getting in on the act, with e-gravel.

Already very versatile, this option offers an additional advantage to gravel, which, equipped with a battery-powered motor block will prove to be perfect companions pumped up with autonomy, for multi-day outings suited to all levels.

...gravel is everywhere

Extending the range of action for both experienced and amateur cyclists, the gravel is ideal for covering a wide variety of itineraries, leaving plenty of room for improvisation. No problem to leave a long line of road to discover small shaded side paths, before returning to asphalt a few kilometers further.

The mount in fact makes it possible to envisage irregular roads, unpaved tracks, unmaintained paths or even more urban environments.

The CAT700, a Spanish long-distance cycling event, using gravel.

Let's draw parallels; between horseback riding and trail riding, there's no doubt that this racy, carbon-doped road fatbike will make its mark in future passionate debates between curious sportsmen and women, lovers of novelties and eager to break codes. Unconventional, the gravel breaks boundaries and adds another dimension to cycling outings.

Some visuals may have been subject to retouching.