Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes are designed for riding on a variety of surfaces – tarmac, gravel roads, forest tracks and country roads. A gravel bike is similar in design to a road bike, but typically has wider tyres, geometry adapted for riding on rougher surfaces and more mounting options for touring accessories. Thanks to this versatility, a gravel bike is suitable for everyday training, longer trips and fast riding on mixed terrain.

At Velonova, you will find Specialized, 3T, BMC and Colnago gravel bikes. Models differ in frame material, geometry, tyre clearance, drivetrain and components, so when choosing a bike it is important to consider not only its price or weight, but also the types of roads and surfaces you will ride on most often.

Aluminium or carbon gravel bike?

Aluminium gravel bikes are generally a more affordable choice and are well suited to everyday riding, training and touring. Modern aluminium frames can be lightweight and stiff, so they are by no means an option intended only for beginners.

Carbon gravel bikes are generally lighter, while carbon construction allows manufacturers to fine-tune the balance of stiffness, comfort and handling. They are particularly attractive to riders looking for a lighter or sportier bike, although the final ride characteristics depend on more than just the frame material – the bike's overall geometry and components are equally important.

Which gravel bike should you choose for your riding style?

If you mostly ride on tarmac and well-maintained gravel roads, a lighter gravel bike with sportier geometry may be the better choice. For rougher forest tracks and country roads, greater tyre clearance, more stable geometry and the ability to use wider tyres become more important.

For longer trips, it is also worth checking for mounting points for bottles, bags, mudguards and other equipment. This means that two similarly priced gravel bikes can be designed for quite different types of riding.

1x or 2x drivetrain?

A 1x drivetrain uses a single front chainring, making the system simpler and eliminating the need for a front derailleur. It is popular for gravel and off-road riding. A 2x drivetrain offers more gear combinations and smaller steps between gears, which can be useful when riding frequently on tarmac, at higher speeds or over varied terrain. When choosing, consider not only the number of chainrings but also the overall gear range of the specific bike.

How to choose the right gravel bike size?

The correct frame size is important for a comfortable riding position, confident handling and efficient pedalling. Geometry varies between manufacturers and models, so height alone – or the size of a bike you have previously ridden – may not always be enough to determine the right size.

Start with the size chart provided by the specific manufacturer. If you fall between two recommended sizes, the best choice may depend on your body proportions, the geometry of the particular model and your preferred riding position. If you are unsure, contact us and we will help you choose the right gravel bike size and model for your height and riding needs.