What is a gravel bike: characteristics, advantages and practicalities

Are gravel and cyclo-cross the same thing? No, because gravel bikes are more suited to long distances and flat terrain, with slightly different geometry (low bottom bracket, long wheelbase and tubes) and wider wheel types (the International Cycling Union limits cyclo-cross to 33 mm), opening up a new way of riding.

Here are the main points that define a gravel bike:

• A frame with higher geometry than a conventional road bike;
  
• Relatively light weight (8 to 12 kg mechanical, 12 to 18 kg electric);
  
• A fixed fork with wide clearance, sometimes a fork, stem or saddle suspension for optimum comfort;
  
• Race-style handlebars for aerodynamics and performance, flat handlebars for beginners, easier for off-road use;
  
• A 10 to 12-speed single-plate transmission, sometimes with double plates (x2).
• Wide tires over 35 mm, with small studs for superior grip.

Gravel bikes are distinguished mainly by a more "upright" frame geometry at the front, resulting in greater stability on dirt roads. Brake and transmission components are also more robust, with dedicated references such as SRAM Apex AXS or Shimano GRX. The wide, notched tires gravel tires are another point of distinction.

Thanks to its weight, which is close to that of a road bike, the gravel bike is an all-rounder that remains pleasant on the road, something that a VTC and even less a MTB cannot claim. But its specific components give it superior stability and grip off-road, whether it's a gravel path or a dirt track.

The limited weight, due to the proximity to road models, means that riding pleasure on asphalt remains intact. The aluminum frame can even be upgraded to a carbon frame for greater lightness and even off-road flexibility. This is where the gravel bike is capable of blending this other practice, thanks to a more stable riding position and its wide tires .

Preferred by lovers of travel and wide-open spaces, it retains the "transporter" quality of the VTC. To suit bikepacking, the gravel has attachments along its frame, on its fork (if fixed), or a trailer hitch. This means it can easily accept front pannier mounts in addition to the traditional frame, saddle and handlebar panniers. Some even have luggage racks. Not necessarily to the taste of purists, but so practical!

As with any electric bike, the frame size must correspond to your body size. As with road bikes, frame size is generally defined in terms of letters (M, L, etc.) rather than numbers (size 46, 51, 54...). Discover all our tips for choosing the right frame size.

As these sizes may vary according to model and brand, please refer to the manufacturer's website or to a dealer for further details.

The gravel bike offer is eclectic, but here is a price range for reconditioned electric models:

• If you're a beginner: a rigid aluminum frame (without suspension), classic VTC/MTB transmission, between 1,000 and 2,000 euros;
  
• Amateur or regular: road handlebars, carbon fork, transmission dedicated to gravel, high-performance assistance, between 2,000 and 3,000 euros ;
  
• Expert: carbon frame, top-of-the-range electronic drivetrain, expect to pay over 3,000 euros.

The wheels on a gravel bike are very specific, needing to be sturdier than those on a road bike for off-road use, while remaining fairly light (some are made of carbon). The tires wheels are also notched and wider than those on racing bikes, often tubeless or "tubeless ready" to lighten the bike. Michelin Power Gravel and Schwalbe G-One Allround are the benchmarks.

As we said, gravel is perfect for bikepacking and touring. Purists, for weight's sake, prefer frame, saddle and handlebar bags. That's the basics, but front panniers can also be fitted (although weight will affect manoeuvrability), as can luggage racks for greater ease of use (or heavier ones).

As with virtually all road bikes and VTTAEs, hydraulic disc brakes are a must, both for safety and precision. Lighting is sometimes included by manufacturers, so add some if you don't have it, and opt for powerful lights when riding at night. Finally, mudguards are not a standard feature. Yes, they add weight, but they're inexpensive, so you don't have to deal with mud on your back and shoes full of water.

For long journeys and hikes, appropriate clothing, a change of clothes, toiletries and accommodation or even camping are essential. This requires bikepacking panniers. What's more, you'll need to bring a minimum amount of equipment to repair your electric gravel bike. See our recommendations for bikepacking!

It's a good idea tomaintain your bike regularly. You should always clean your bike after a gravel outing, especially in the event of mud, rain or gravel projections. For the electrical part, follow our advice to prolong battery and motor life.

Bike cleaning also involves your tires, which is exposed to mud, dirt and dust. As far as the transmission is concerned:

• Rinse with water
• Clean with a stiff bristle or toothbrush
• Use a cloth with degreaser
• Apply a few drops of lubricant to the chain.

The gravel bike has often been the narrow relative of the road bike. It can inherit a lighter, more flexible carbon frame, even if the carbon fork alone is preferred. However, gravel bikes are becoming more specialized, with specific frames and geometries more suited to off-road riding.

Like MTB and road bikes, this recent category is gradually leading to specific competitions and events. In particular, gravel bikes are ideal for touring, a sport in which friends and associations regularly take part.

A specialist's bike, the gravel is a demanding, sometimes sporty all-rounder. However, it has its limits when it comes to technical sections and steep gradients. This is where the electric gravel bike is perhaps more relevant, and can increase the scope for new adventures!

However, the greater weight of the electric version (motor, battery) may put off some lightweight bike enthusiasts. So be careful in your choice of materials and battery capacity. The transmission also needs to be more robust to cope with the higher stresses (due to engine torque).

• Equally at home on roads and gravel tracks, gravel is an excellent choice;
  
• Target the right frame size and components;
  
• Electric gravel is an alternative that extends the range of action on difficult terrain;
  
• It should be cleaned and maintained more often to extend its life;
  
• Bikepacking requires equipment and accessories.