The 8 Best Gravel Bikes for Riding Between Pavement and the Dirt
Since the invention of the bicycle, enthusiasts have been riding on all types of surfaces and terrain. It wasn’t until about 2012 that the term “gravel bike” entered the lexicon. In the simplest terms, the gravel bike was marketed to serve as a cross between road and mountain bikes.
Designed for off-road riding and long hauls, a gravel bike is heavier than a road bike but faster and more efficient than a mountain bike. If you’re planning a long-haul bikepacking trip, a more casual fire road ride, or getting off heavily trafficked paved roads, a gravel bike is the answer. There is competitive gravel racing , too.
There is a wide price range for gravel bikes and costs will vary based on the design, components, and accessories. Read on for our favorite “gravel grinders” and what you need to know before you buy.
Best Gravel Bikes
- Best Overall: Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 1BY
- Smoothest Ride: Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3L
- Made to Ride the Divide: Salsa cutthroat C GRX 600 1X
- Best Value: Canyon Grail CF SL 7
- Benchmark Racer: Salsa Warbird C Force EATP AXS Wide
What to Look for in a Gravel Bike
Sizing Geometry
Many gravel bikes are similar to mountain bikes in terms of sizing (XS to XL) while some manufacturers will go off of cm sizing. Check for a sizing chart on the manufacturer’s web site.
What you’ll notice with gravel bikes is they typically have a shorter reach and wider handlebars than a road bike. This design helps keep the rider’s weight more centered over the bike, allowing for more maneuverability and better handling on unstable terrain.
Gravel bikes are uniquely identified by their longer wheelbase and angled head tube, which gives a more stable ride in off-road conditions. The head tube is the piece of the frame that connects to the front fork and handlebar.
Typically, road bikes have a more upright headtube angle, lending to a quick and responsive feel while also putting the rider in a more aerodynamic position. A slack, or less steep head tube angle, will produce a more stable and forgiving ride that is better suited for uneven surfaces.
Gearing
The majority of gravel bikes come with either a 1x or 2x drivetrain. With a 1x drivetrain, there is a single chainring on the crank. These drivetrains are simpler, lower maintenance, quieter, and less likely to drop the chain. The 2x drivetrain option consists of two chainrings and offers a larger range of gears and smaller jumps from one gear to the next. Many high-end gravel racing bikes maintain the 2x drivetrain to allow for small changes in gearing to maintain optimal cadence.
Wheels and Tires
Gravel bike tire sizing is similar to mountain bikes. Tires usually come in a 700c (29-inch) tire or a 650b (27.5-inch) tire option based on the rider’s size and ability. The 650b sizing allows the tire to be wider, while the 700c will usually be thinner but move the bike faster, which is better suited for racing.
Keep in mind that gravel bikes can handle wider tires than road bikes, allowing for up to a 40- to 50mm wide tire. Choosing a wider tire lends itself to more grip and stability in dirt, gravel, or more technical terrain. Some frames can accommodate both tire sizes. Make sure to look for these types of customizations when shopping for a new ride.
Frame
Carbon frames are common for gravel bikes, making them light and easy to handle. For more intense bikepacking, many riders prefer a stronger steel or aluminum frame. Bikes comprised of these materials will hold up better to flying rocks, general wear and tear, and are less likely to break.
An aluminum frame will likely be the most budget friendly option, but you will sacrifice some of the smoothness and lightness that you get with a carbon frame. For gravel racing, the goal is to be fast and lightweight, making carbon or a custom titanium frame more common for those on the competitive circuit.
Accessories
One defining factor of a ‘gravel grinder’ is customization with accessories like bag mounts, multiple water bottle mounts, fender mounts, and rear rack mounts. These additions are major selling points for riders who enjoy bikepacking trips or all-day adventures.
Seatpost Options
Dropper seatposts have become the new standard for mountain biking, and some gravel bike manufacturers are now including them as well. A standard seatpost is adjustable by hand to the height of the rider. Most riders will lower their seatpost when riding downhill to allow more maneuverability and raise it again when climbing uphill.
A dropper seatpost or “dropper” features an integrated cable (or in some cases electronic) which allows the rider to quickly adjust the height of the saddle with the use of a lever, usually located on the handlebar. This saves time and eliminates the inconvenience of making manual adjustments. Keep in mind that this technology does add cost to the overall bike purchase.
How We Selected These Gravel Bikes
Based on my knowledge of many of these brands and types of bikes, I picked the gravel bikes below as the best ones to buy now. I evaluated these options based on factors like the quality of parts and components, value, and my experience riding similar models. This range of gravel bikes showcases options for a variety of purposes and budgets. Keep in mind that most of the bikes here are mid to high-end and not necessarily beginner gravel bikes.
Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 1BY
Pros
Includes saddle made specifically for gravel riding
Huge tire clearance
Cons
Must purchase Canyon specific mud guards
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX 800, 1×11 speed |
| Tire Size | 50 mm |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
The Canyon Grizl is an all-around great ride suited for all types of adventures, whether it be a casual after-work gravel ride, commuting around town, or a multi-day bikepacking adventure. The Shimano components and 1x drivetrain keep maintenance simple yet reliable, and the carbon frame helps dampen the bumps on rough trails.
The customizations for this bike allow for the addition of a dropper post, mudguards, a new suspension fork if desired, and ample configurations for water bottles and storage.
Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3L
Pros
Includes SmartSense light
Dropped chainstay for running big volume tires
Integrated dropper post and multiple gear/water bottle mounts
Cons
Lacks fork mounts
A bit heavier than comparable bikes
Key Specs
| FRAME | Lightweight Topstone Carbon |
| GROUPSET | Shimano GRX 800/600, 2×11-speed |
| TIRE SIZE | 45mm |
| WHEEL SIZE | 700c |
Get ready for a great ride on your next bikepacking trip or long off-road day ride with this winner of a bike. A lightweight frame with Cannondale’s Kingpin suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride. Customizations like the capability to run wider tires or integrate a dropper seat post make this a solid choice for a variety of riders and their preferred terrain.
Salsa Cutthroat C GRX 600 1X
Pros
Fork mounts
Ample tire clearance
Comfortable geometry for multi-day trips
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX/ Shimano M5100 11–42t, 1×11-speed |
| Tire Size | 2.4-in. |
| Wheel Size | 29-in. |
Inspired by the Tour Divide—America’s longest mountain bike race—this bike can carry more and handle a wider range of terrain than just about any gravel bike out there. It’s loaded with mounts for camping gear, bike accessories, and water bottles, plus it’s rear-rack-compatible.
Salsa’s Class 5 Vibration Reduction System absorbs uneven terrain for a more comfortable ride. Though meant for burly rides, the Cutthroat still has a carbon frame and fork, plus a surprising turn of speed.
Canyon Grail CF SL 7
Pros
High-end components
Shock Absorbing Canyon VCLS seatpost
Cons
Some riders may not be comfortable with the unique cockpit
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX810 / Shimano HG700 11-34 11s |
| Tire Size | 40mm |
| Wheel Size | 700c (or 650c for XS and 2XS frame sizes) |
The Grail is one of the more unique gravel offerings with its stem flush with the top tube and signature two-tier cockpit which allows for four different hand positions. The bar’s flexing top section cushions the rider’s upper body when the ground is rough, but the stiffer drops provide control on fast downhills.
The Shimano groupset was specifically designed for gravel riding, and with Canyon’s value, you get excellent parts for the money.
Salsa Warbird C Force ETAP AXS Wide
Pros
Wireless electronic shifting with a 2×12 drivetrain
Cons
Only comes in pink, which may not suit everyone
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | SRAM Force eTap AXS Wide, 2 x 12 speed |
| Tire Size | 42mm |
| Wheel Size | Option for both 700c or 650b |
You’ll definitely get your money’s worth out of this speedy bike. Salsa’s Warbird geometry was made for racing, with long top tubes paired with short stems resulting in more stability at high speeds. The 2x drivetrain system allows for smaller jumps in gearing to maintain that perfect cadence. Salsa offers an option for both 700c or 650b sized wheels while integrated mounts offer loads of storage.
Merlin Sandstone
Pros
Lifetime warranty
Fully customizable
Gravel riding is hard on equipment, and there’s no better material to stand up to gravel’s punishment than titanium. Strong and durable, this bike is built to last—and it doesn’t need paint, so there’s no need to worry about bag straps ruining the finish.
Titanium’s ride quality is another benefit, as it offers ample comfort for long and rough rides. Merlin offers custom builds and upgrade options on this solid frame, including rack and fender mounts, custom geometry, and internal cable routing.
Kona Libre CR DL
Pros
Ample tire clearance
Smooth and stable ride in rough terrain
Cons
Won’t keep up downhill or sprinting compared to similar gravel bikes
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX / Shimano SLX 11 speed |
| Tire Size | 45mm |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
The Libre is a heavy-duty gravel bike—almost a drop bar mountain bike. This burley machine can handle tough off-road conditions with its lightweight yet durable frame and the full length TranzX dropper post.
No surprise that it’s from Kona, a company with deep roots in mountain biking. With tall and wide bars and provisions for a dropper post, the Libre DL is ready for the rowdiest gravel adventures.
Salsa Warroad C Ultegra
Pros
Dual wheel size compatible
Integrated top tube bag mount
Dropper post compatible
Cons
Fewer cargo mounts compared to other Salsa models
This is how Salsa makes an all-road bike. The Warroad is Salsa’s fastest gravel rig, with a stiff frame and responsive handling that makes it livelier than the company’s other bikes.
It has all-road geometry, with a long offset fork and slack head tube angle, plus Salsa’s Class 5 Vibration Reduction System. It doesn’t have the cargo carrying capacity of the Cutthroat, but it more than makes up for that in speed and handling while still providing customized options for water bottle and rack mounts. It’s also able to accept a dropper post and rear rack.Since the invention of the bicycle, enthusiasts have been riding on all types of surfaces and terrain. It wasn’t until about 2012 that the term “gravel bike” entered the lexicon. In the simplest terms, the gravel bike was marketed to serve as a cross between road and mountain bikes.
Designed for off-road riding and long hauls, a gravel bike is heavier than a road bike but faster and more efficient than a mountain bike. If you’re planning a long-haul bikepacking trip, a more casual fire road ride, or getting off heavily trafficked paved roads, a gravel bike is the answer. There is competitive gravel racing , too.
There is a wide price range for gravel bikes and costs will vary based on the design, components, and accessories. Read on for our favorite “gravel grinders” and what you need to know before you buy.
Best Gravel Bikes
- Best Overall: Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 1BY
- Smoothest Ride: Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3L
- Made to Ride the Divide: Salsa cutthroat C GRX 600 1X
- Best Value: Canyon Grail CF SL 7
- Benchmark Racer: Salsa Warbird C Force EATP AXS Wide
What to Look for in a Gravel Bike
Sizing Geometry
Many gravel bikes are similar to mountain bikes in terms of sizing (XS to XL) while some manufacturers will go off of cm sizing. Check for a sizing chart on the manufacturer’s web site.
What you’ll notice with gravel bikes is they typically have a shorter reach and wider handlebars than a road bike. This design helps keep the rider’s weight more centered over the bike, allowing for more maneuverability and better handling on unstable terrain.
Gravel bikes are uniquely identified by their longer wheelbase and angled head tube, which gives a more stable ride in off-road conditions. The head tube is the piece of the frame that connects to the front fork and handlebar.
Typically, road bikes have a more upright headtube angle, lending to a quick and responsive feel while also putting the rider in a more aerodynamic position. A slack, or less steep head tube angle, will produce a more stable and forgiving ride that is better suited for uneven surfaces.
Gearing
The majority of gravel bikes come with either a 1x or 2x drivetrain. With a 1x drivetrain, there is a single chainring on the crank. These drivetrains are simpler, lower maintenance, quieter, and less likely to drop the chain. The 2x drivetrain option consists of two chainrings and offers a larger range of gears and smaller jumps from one gear to the next. Many high-end gravel racing bikes maintain the 2x drivetrain to allow for small changes in gearing to maintain optimal cadence.
Wheels and Tires
Gravel bike tire sizing is similar to mountain bikes. Tires usually come in a 700c (29-inch) tire or a 650b (27.5-inch) tire option based on the rider’s size and ability. The 650b sizing allows the tire to be wider, while the 700c will usually be thinner but move the bike faster, which is better suited for racing.
Keep in mind that gravel bikes can handle wider tires than road bikes, allowing for up to a 40- to 50mm wide tire. Choosing a wider tire lends itself to more grip and stability in dirt, gravel, or more technical terrain. Some frames can accommodate both tire sizes. Make sure to look for these types of customizations when shopping for a new ride.
Frame
Carbon frames are common for gravel bikes, making them light and easy to handle. For more intense bikepacking, many riders prefer a stronger steel or aluminum frame. Bikes comprised of these materials will hold up better to flying rocks, general wear and tear, and are less likely to break.
An aluminum frame will likely be the most budget friendly option, but you will sacrifice some of the smoothness and lightness that you get with a carbon frame. For gravel racing, the goal is to be fast and lightweight, making carbon or a custom titanium frame more common for those on the competitive circuit.
Accessories
One defining factor of a ‘gravel grinder’ is customization with accessories like bag mounts, multiple water bottle mounts, fender mounts, and rear rack mounts. These additions are major selling points for riders who enjoy bikepacking trips or all-day adventures.
Seatpost Options
Dropper seatposts have become the new standard for mountain biking, and some gravel bike manufacturers are now including them as well. A standard seatpost is adjustable by hand to the height of the rider. Most riders will lower their seatpost when riding downhill to allow more maneuverability and raise it again when climbing uphill.
A dropper seatpost or “dropper” features an integrated cable (or in some cases electronic) which allows the rider to quickly adjust the height of the saddle with the use of a lever, usually located on the handlebar. This saves time and eliminates the inconvenience of making manual adjustments. Keep in mind that this technology does add cost to the overall bike purchase.
How We Selected These Gravel Bikes
Based on my knowledge of many of these brands and types of bikes, I picked the gravel bikes below as the best ones to buy now. I evaluated these options based on factors like the quality of parts and components, value, and my experience riding similar models. This range of gravel bikes showcases options for a variety of purposes and budgets. Keep in mind that most of the bikes here are mid to high-end and not necessarily beginner gravel bikes.
Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 1BY
Pros
Includes saddle made specifically for gravel riding
Huge tire clearance
Cons
Must purchase Canyon specific mud guards
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX 800, 1×11 speed |
| Tire Size | 50 mm |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
The Canyon Grizl is an all-around great ride suited for all types of adventures, whether it be a casual after-work gravel ride, commuting around town, or a multi-day bikepacking adventure. The Shimano components and 1x drivetrain keep maintenance simple yet reliable, and the carbon frame helps dampen the bumps on rough trails.
The customizations for this bike allow for the addition of a dropper post, mudguards, a new suspension fork if desired, and ample configurations for water bottles and storage.
Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3L
Pros
Includes SmartSense light
Dropped chainstay for running big volume tires
Integrated dropper post and multiple gear/water bottle mounts
Cons
Lacks fork mounts
A bit heavier than comparable bikes
Key Specs
| FRAME | Lightweight Topstone Carbon |
| GROUPSET | Shimano GRX 800/600, 2×11-speed |
| TIRE SIZE | 45mm |
| WHEEL SIZE | 700c |
Get ready for a great ride on your next bikepacking trip or long off-road day ride with this winner of a bike. A lightweight frame with Cannondale’s Kingpin suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride. Customizations like the capability to run wider tires or integrate a dropper seat post make this a solid choice for a variety of riders and their preferred terrain.
Salsa Cutthroat C GRX 600 1X
Pros
Fork mounts
Ample tire clearance
Comfortable geometry for multi-day trips
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX/ Shimano M5100 11–42t, 1×11-speed |
| Tire Size | 2.4-in. |
| Wheel Size | 29-in. |
Inspired by the Tour Divide—America’s longest mountain bike race—this bike can carry more and handle a wider range of terrain than just about any gravel bike out there. It’s loaded with mounts for camping gear, bike accessories, and water bottles, plus it’s rear-rack-compatible.
Salsa’s Class 5 Vibration Reduction System absorbs uneven terrain for a more comfortable ride. Though meant for burly rides, the Cutthroat still has a carbon frame and fork, plus a surprising turn of speed.
Canyon Grail CF SL 7
Pros
High-end components
Shock Absorbing Canyon VCLS seatpost
Cons
Some riders may not be comfortable with the unique cockpit
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX810 / Shimano HG700 11-34 11s |
| Tire Size | 40mm |
| Wheel Size | 700c (or 650c for XS and 2XS frame sizes) |
The Grail is one of the more unique gravel offerings with its stem flush with the top tube and signature two-tier cockpit which allows for four different hand positions. The bar’s flexing top section cushions the rider’s upper body when the ground is rough, but the stiffer drops provide control on fast downhills.
The Shimano groupset was specifically designed for gravel riding, and with Canyon’s value, you get excellent parts for the money.
Salsa Warbird C Force ETAP AXS Wide
Pros
Wireless electronic shifting with a 2×12 drivetrain
Cons
Only comes in pink, which may not suit everyone
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | SRAM Force eTap AXS Wide, 2 x 12 speed |
| Tire Size | 42mm |
| Wheel Size | Option for both 700c or 650b |
You’ll definitely get your money’s worth out of this speedy bike. Salsa’s Warbird geometry was made for racing, with long top tubes paired with short stems resulting in more stability at high speeds. The 2x drivetrain system allows for smaller jumps in gearing to maintain that perfect cadence. Salsa offers an option for both 700c or 650b sized wheels while integrated mounts offer loads of storage.
Merlin Sandstone
Pros
Lifetime warranty
Fully customizable
Gravel riding is hard on equipment, and there’s no better material to stand up to gravel’s punishment than titanium. Strong and durable, this bike is built to last—and it doesn’t need paint, so there’s no need to worry about bag straps ruining the finish.
Titanium’s ride quality is another benefit, as it offers ample comfort for long and rough rides. Merlin offers custom builds and upgrade options on this solid frame, including rack and fender mounts, custom geometry, and internal cable routing.
Kona Libre CR DL
Pros
Ample tire clearance
Smooth and stable ride in rough terrain
Cons
Won’t keep up downhill or sprinting compared to similar gravel bikes
Key Specs
| Frame | Carbon |
| Groupset | Shimano GRX / Shimano SLX 11 speed |
| Tire Size | 45mm |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
The Libre is a heavy-duty gravel bike—almost a drop bar mountain bike. This burley machine can handle tough off-road conditions with its lightweight yet durable frame and the full length TranzX dropper post.
No surprise that it’s from Kona, a company with deep roots in mountain biking. With tall and wide bars and provisions for a dropper post, the Libre DL is ready for the rowdiest gravel adventures.
Salsa Warroad C Ultegra
Pros
Dual wheel size compatible
Integrated top tube bag mount
Dropper post compatible
Cons
Fewer cargo mounts compared to other Salsa models
This is how Salsa makes an all-road bike. The Warroad is Salsa’s fastest gravel rig, with a stiff frame and responsive handling that makes it livelier than the company’s other bikes.
It has all-road geometry, with a long offset fork and slack head tube angle, plus Salsa’s Class 5 Vibration Reduction System. It doesn’t have the cargo carrying capacity of the Cutthroat, but it more than makes up for that in speed and handling while still providing customized options for water bottle and rack mounts. It’s also able to accept a dropper post and rear rack.