If you're interested in bikes, you've probably heard of gravel bikes. But what exactly is a gravel bike and how does it differ from a classic road bike? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and take a closer look at the most important differences between a road bike and a gravel bike.

What is a gravel bike?

A gravel bike is a versatile bike that has been specially developed for riding on a wide variety of surfaces, from asphalt roads to gravel paths and easy trails. It is a mixture of a road bike, a cyclocross bike and a mountain bike. Gravel bikes are designed for long-distance and adventure rides and offer a perfect balance between speed, comfort and off-road capability.

The 12 most important differences between road bikes and gravel bikes

Frame geometry:

The frame geometry is one of the most obvious differences between a road bike and a gravel bike. While road bikes offer an aggressive, aerodynamic position with a slack steering angle, gravel bikes have a more relaxed geometry with a higher head tube and slacker steering angle. This provides more stability and comfort on uneven terrain.

Tire width:

Another important difference is the tire width. Road bikes generally use narrow tires (23-28 mm) to minimize rolling resistance and maximize speed on asphalt. Gravel bikes, on the other hand, have significantly wider tires (35-50 mm) that offer more grip and cushioning on gravel and unpaved roads.

Tire tread:

The tire treads are also very different. Road bike tires are smooth in order to offer as little rolling resistance as possible, while gravel tires have a coarse tread that provides better grip on loose surfaces. The tread pattern of gravel tires often resembles the lugs of mountain bike tires, but is less pronounced.

Wheels:

Gravel bikes are often equipped with more robust wheels that have wider rims and more spokes to withstand the higher loads of off-road riding. Road bikes, on the other hand, have lighter and more aerodynamic wheels that are designed for maximum speed on asphalt.

The translation:

Road bikes are designed for high speeds on flat and hilly roads and therefore often have close-ratio gearing. Gravel bikes, however, require a wider gear ratio to cope with both flat roads and steep off-road climbs. This is often achieved by a 1x or 2x drivetrain with a wide cassette (e.g. 11-42 teeth).

Frame material:

Road bike frames are often made from lightweight materials such as carbon or aluminium to minimize overall weight and maximize performance. Gravel bikes are also made from these materials, but the frames are often more robust and built to last to withstand the rigors of the terrain. Some gravel bikes also use steel as it is durable and comfortable.

Brakes:

While road bikes traditionally use rim brakes (although disc brakes are also becoming increasingly popular), gravel bikes are almost exclusively equipped with disc brakes. Disc brakes offer better braking performance in all conditions, especially in wet and muddy conditions, which is crucial for off-road riding.

Comfort and shock absorption:

Gravel bikes generally offer more comfort than road bikes, which is due to the wider tires, the more relaxed geometry and often also special comfort features such as suspension seat posts or handlebar attachments. These features help to dampen vibrations and bumps off-road and make longer rides more pleasant.

Handlebar shape:

Both types of bike use drop bars (racing handlebars), but they differ in shape. The handlebars of gravel bikes are often wider and have a stronger flare (flared ends) to provide more control on uneven terrain. Road bike handlebars are narrower and optimized for a more aerodynamic position.

Load capacity and fastening options:

Gravel bikes are often equipped with numerous attachment points for bottle cages, pannier racks, mudguards and bags. This makes them ideal for bikepacking and long tours. Road bikes, on the other hand, tend to be equipped more minimally to save weight and maximize aerodynamics.

Weight:

Road bikes are usually lighter than gravel bikes as they are optimized for road use and maximum speed. Gravel bikes are more robust and have additional components such as wider tires and disc brakes, which makes them heavier. However, this difference in weight is necessary to cope with the stresses and strains of off-road riding.

Range of application:

Perhaps the most decisive difference lies in the area of use of the two types of bike. Road bikes are designed for smooth, paved roads and are ideal for racing, training and fast rides. Gravel bikes, on the other hand, are real all-rounders that can be ridden on a wide variety of surfaces and in different weather conditions. They are suitable for adventures, long-distance rides, bikepacking and even daily commuting on gravel or forest paths.

Conclusion

A gravel bike is the perfect choice for anyone who likes to get off the beaten track and is looking for adventure on a wide variety of surfaces. With its robust construction, comfortable geometry and wide tires, it offers a level of versatility that a road bike simply cannot match. It is the ideal companion for long tours, bikepacking adventures and trips into the unknown.

If you're asking yourself, “What is a gravel bike?”, then it's best summarized in one word: Freedom. Freedom to explore new paths, regardless of the surface. Freedom to combine the speed and efficiency of a road bike with the robustness and versatility of a mountain bike in one bike. The gravel bike opens up a world of possibilities that goes far beyond the limits of asphalt.

Now that you know the differences between a road bike and a gravel bike, the question is: which type of bike best suits your riding style? If the answer is still uncertain: Rent a gravel bike from Pedalmondo and just give it a try!