How to Choose the Right Gravel Bike?

1. What is gravel biking?

The difference between a gravel bike and a conventional road bike lies in its ruggedness and versatility. Its frame and curved handlebar look similar to those of a road bike, but its tires are wider and feature knobs for enhanced traction on gravel.

The gravel bike is generally equipped with disc brakes to offer greater stability on muddy or gravel surfaces. Many styles feature a single chain ring for ease of use. Last but not least, gravel bikes often feature attachment points for accessories such as water bottles, panniers, mudguards, tools and lights.

For whom?

Gravel bikes are designed for nature lovers looking for versatility and comfort on all types of terrain. They allow you to leave home on an asphalt road, then join a stone dust bike path before turning onto a gravel-covered country road.

They offer better performance than a hybrid bike for long rides, and greater sturdiness than a road bike, allowing for a wider range of circuit choices. Some even prefer them for longer adventures, such as light cycle touring.

2. How to choose the right gravel bike?

Are you primarily cycling on paved trails but looking for a more comfortable ride than a road bike?

Or perhaps, on the contrary, you prefer to avoid traffic as much as possible and what you love is getting lost on forest paths and less frequented country roads with a high-performance bike?

Unless you are drawn to the adventurous side and are looking for a sturdy two-wheeled companion able to carry your numerous panniers while exploring the wilderness? There are countless aspects to gravel biking; your type of riding will influence your selection criteria in finding the equipment that suits you best.

There are four main criteria for choosing a gravel bike:

• Frame material and geometry
• Wheel and tire versatility
• Transmission
• Choice of accessories

3. What budget should you plan?

Gravel bikes come in a wide range of prices, from just under $1,000 to a little over $10,000. It all depends on the brand, the quality of materials, and the technologies of the chosen style.

• For occasional to regular use, look for a reliable bike between $1,400 and $3,000.
• If you are seeking more performance and lightness, select from a range between $3,000 and $6,000.

4. Where to practise?

The advantage of a gravel bike is that it is so versatile that it allows you to ride on an impressive variety of terrains. It is suitable for both road and gravel rides, not to mention forest trails if they are relatively wide and free from too many obstructions (roots, rocks, etc.).

In Quebec, several regions are havens for gravel biking. This includes the Eastern Townships, the Gaspésie, the Bas-Saint-Laurent, the Outaouais, the Laurentians, and the Quebec City region.

In recent years, the enthusiasm for gravel biking has grown to the point where several competitive and recreational events have emerged throughout the province. These include La Buckland sur gravelle in Chaudière-Appalaches, the Gravel Bikepacking Challenge 500 (GBC 500) in the Eastern Townships as well as the Big Red Gravel Run (BRGR) in Outaouais.