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Gravel Bikes vs. Cyclocross Bikes: Which One Is Right for You?

As the popularity of off-road cycling grows, many riders find themselves debating between gravel bikes and cyclocross bikes. While both bike types may appear similar at first glance, they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different riding styles and purposes. In this review, we'll compare gravel bikes and cyclocross bikes, highlighting their key differences and helping you determine which one is right for you.


Gravel Bikes:

Design and Geometry: Gravel bikes are designed for long-distance riding on mixed terrain, including gravel roads, fire trails, and light singletrack. They have a relaxed geometry with a longer wheelbase and lower bottom bracket, providing stability and comfort for extended rides. The head tube angle is slightly slacker, offering better control on descents.

Tire Clearance and Mounts: Gravel bikes typically have ample tire clearance, allowing for wider tires (35mm to 50mm) that provide better traction, comfort, and flotation on loose surfaces. They often feature mounts for fenders, racks, and multiple water bottles, making them suitable for bikepacking and adventure rides.

Gearing and Drivetrain: Gravel bikes often have a wide range of gears, with compact or sub-compact chainrings and large cassettes (up to 11-42t) to tackle steep climbs and varied terrain. They may also feature clutch-type rear derailleurs to reduce chain slap and improve chain retention on rough roads.

Cyclocross Bikes:

Design and Geometry: Cyclocross bikes are designed for the demands of cyclocross racing, which involves short, intense laps on a mix of pavement, grass, mud, and obstacles. They have a more aggressive geometry with a higher bottom bracket and shorter wheelbase, prioritizing agility and quick handling. The head tube angle is steeper, enabling faster steering response.

Tire Clearance and Mounts: Cyclocross bikes have limited tire clearance compared to gravel bikes, typically accommodating tires up to 33mm wide. This allows for faster acceleration and maneuverability on smoother surfaces. They usually lack mounts for fenders and racks, as they are designed primarily for racing.

Gearing and Drivetrain: Cyclocross bikes often have a narrower gear range, with higher gearing ratios to maintain speed on flatter sections and short, punchy climbs. They may feature single chainring drivetrains for simplicity and to avoid chain drops during intense racing conditions.

Considerations for Choosing:

Riding Purpose: If your primary focus is long-distance adventure riding, bikepacking, and exploring mixed terrain, a gravel bike is likely the better choice. However, if you're interested in cyclocross racing or fast-paced riding on a mix of surfaces, a cyclocross bike may be more suitable.

Comfort and Stability: Gravel bikes prioritize comfort and stability, making them ideal for long days in the saddle and riding on rough, unpredictable terrain. Cyclocross bikes, on the other hand, sacrifice some comfort for agility and speed, which is beneficial in racing scenarios.

Versatility: While both bike types can handle a variety of surfaces, gravel bikes offer more versatility with their wider tire clearance, mounts for accessories, and more relaxed geometry. They can be used for commuting, light touring, and even road riding with the right tire setup.


Choosing between a gravel bike and a cyclocross bike ultimately depends on your riding goals, preferences, and the type of terrain you plan to tackle. Gravel bikes excel in long-distance, mixed-surface adventures, while cyclocross bikes are optimized for fast-paced, intense racing. Consider your riding purpose, desired comfort level, and versatility needs when making your decision. Test ride both types of bikes, if possible, to get a feel for their differences and determine which one aligns best with your cycling aspirations.