If you want to get out on the trails while retaining the temperament of a racing bike, the electric gravel bike is the alternative. A recent and trendy category, the gravel bike is the choice of sport cyclists to increase their range on all types of terrain, without having to resort to a VTTAE or a heavy VTC. These bikes are also more suitable for bikepacking, to carry panniers for a trip.
What are the special features of gravel?
You can recognize a gravel bike by its similarity to a road bike. Its racing handlebars are typical, as is its triangular frame, for riding on the road with ease. For proximity to a muscular gravel bike, an aluminum or carbon frame is popular to keep weight down. Its slimness allows for a small battery in the downtube - which can be supplemented by an auxiliary or external battery for long-distance autonomy - and a light electric assistance system.
But the gravel features a slightly raised geometry for precise riding on uneven terrain. To guarantee a good grip on off-road adventures, the tires tires are wider and notched. At the same time, derailleur drivetrains are more robust or even dedicated, like Shimano GRX or SRAM Apex AXS.
The frame and sometimes the fork are fitted with mounting points to facilitate the addition of panniers, making bikepacking easier. Electric gravel touring requires a minimum of comfort. Some prefer a front suspension, while others prefer a fixed fork for reduced weight and a smooth ride. Comfort can also be provided by a suspended seatpost.
What's the difference between a VTC and a gravel bike?
In short, the gravel bike is the VTC for the sportiest riders looking for performance on the trails, a far cry from our electric city bikes. The position is more active than on an all-terrain bike (leaning forward), thanks to the racing handlebars and higher saddle.
However, there are also tires wide, all-purpose bikes, close to off-road bikes, while some models feature fork suspension (telescopic or stem). All of this is designed with sporting ambitions in mind, where weight is a key factor. A gravel bike is therefore lighter than a VTC without an imposing battery, with light electric assistance, without being a soft assistance. For example, the TQ, Fazua, Bosch Performance Line SX or Mahle X20 rear motors, all with multiple assistance levels.
What are the best-known gravel brands?
Since electric gravel bikes are closely related to road bikes, the manufacturers specializing in the latter are those specializing in the former. Often, they closely derive their flagship models from gravel, when certain bike ranges are developed specifically for the practice. So it's not surprising to find the famous brands Cannondale, Canyon, Cube, Giant, Scott, Specialized or Trek in the electric gravel segment. And let's not forget the French brands Decathlon Van Rysel, Lapierre, Look, Moustache or Origine.
Electric gravel: what's it for?
Think of an electric gravel bike as closely related to a road bike. It's versatile, designed for moderate off-road use on gravel, dirt and gentle paths, with a solid frame. Its limits lie in grip and comfort. Off-road, if you're planning to ride on very rough trails, in the forest or in the mountains, we suggest you take a look at our selection of MTB electric or electric fatbikes.