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Gravel

Gravel: Gravel bikes designed for off-road riding on unpaved roads grew popular in the 2010s.

Gravel (Approximate bicycle dimensions): Endurance road geometry with more tire clearance, 1020-1080mm wheelbases.

Approximate price ranges for 'Gravel' type of bike (minimum - average - maximum prices): $800 - $1,800 - $5,000

1. General Information
  • Name and type: Gravel bicycle
  • Purpose: Designed for mixed-surface riding, including gravel roads, dirt paths, and pavement
  • Price range: Mid-range to high-end
  • Suitable for: Men and women, adults, adventure cyclists and endurance riders
2. Characteristics

Frame

  • Material: Aluminum, carbon fiber, steel, or titanium
  • Geometry: Relaxed, with a longer wheelbase and lower bottom bracket for stability

Wheels

  • Diameter: 700c or 650b
  • Tire type: Wide, knobby tires (35-50mm) for traction and comfort on varied surfaces
  • Rim material: Aluminum or carbon fiber, often tubeless-ready

Transmission

  • Number of gears: 11-speed to 13-speed
  • Derailleur type: External, front and rear
  • Crankset: Double or single chainring, aluminum or carbon fiber

Brakes

  • Type: Disc brakes (hydraulic or mechanical)
  • Actuation: Hydraulic or mechanical
  • Manufacturer and model: Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo

Fork

  • Type: Rigid, carbon fiber or aluminum, with greater clearance for wider tires

Saddle and handlebars

  • Saddle type: Comfortable, endurance-oriented saddle
  • Material: Synthetic or lightweight padding
  • Handlebar type: Flared drop bars for improved control and comfort

Bike weight:9-12 kg (20-26 lbs)

3. Features
  • Additional equipment: Mounts for fenders, racks, and multiple bottle cages
  • Accessories included: None
  • Unique characteristics or technologies: Wide tire clearance, disc brakes, endurance geometry
  • Compatibility with additional equipment: Designed to accommodate bikepacking bags, fenders, and racks
4. Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Main advantages: Versatility, comfort, and capability on mixed surfaces
  • Potential disadvantages or limitations: Heavier than road bikes, slower on pavement than dedicated road bikes
  • Comparison with other similar bike types: More versatile and comfortable than cyclocross bikes, faster on pavement than mountain bikes
5. Target Audience and Recommendations
  • Suitable for: Gravel riding, bikepacking, adventure cycling, and endurance events
  • Frame size recommendations: Based on rider height and inseam length
  • Maintenance and care tips: Regular cleaning, lubrication, and tune-ups, with extra attention to drivetrain and brakes after dusty or muddy rides
6. Popular Models and Manufacturers
  • Examples of popular models: Salsa Warbird, Specialized Diverge, Cannondale Topstone
  • Well-known brands specializing in this type: Salsa, Specialized, Cannondale, Trek, Giant
7. Conclusion
  • Summary of key characteristics and advantages: Versatile, comfortable, and capable bikes designed for exploring mixed surfaces and adventurous rides
  • Optimal choice for: Adventure cyclists and endurance riders who want a bike that excels on gravel roads, dirt paths, and pavement, with the ability to carry gear for multi-day trips