Best Budget Gravel Bike
Gravel biking has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. Its blend of road cycling efficiency and off-road capability makes it attractive to a wide range of cyclists. However, finding a quality gravel bike on a budget can be challenging. Here are some of the top budget gravel bikes that offer good performance without breaking the bank.
Canyon Grail AL 6.0
The Canyon Grail AL 6.0 offers a robust ride with an aluminum frame. It’s designed with comfort and versatility in mind. The bike comes with wide tires that provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces. SRAM Apex 1 groupset ensures smooth and reliable shifting. The hydraulic disc brakes offer dependable stopping power. With its durable components, this bike handles both off-road trails and city commutes effortlessly.
Giant Revolt 2
The Giant Revolt 2 is a great pick for those looking for affordability without sacrificing quality. Its ALUXX aluminum frame is durable and lightweight. The bike features a Shimano Sora groupset which, though basic, is reliable and easy to maintain. Tektro mechanical disc brakes ensure solid braking performance. It’s equipped with a D-Fuse seatpost to absorb shocks, making it comfortable for long rides.
Trek Checkpoint AL 3
The Trek Checkpoint AL 3 is another strong contender in the budget gravel bike market. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame, it’s designed for versatility. Shimano Claris groupset provides smooth shifting and mechanical disc brakes offer reliable stopping power. The bike includes mounts for racks and fenders, making it a practical choice for bikepacking and commuting. Its stable geometry ensures a confident ride on diverse terrains.
Specialized Diverge Base E5
The Specialized Diverge Base E5 offers a good balance between performance and cost. Its E5 aluminum frame is sturdy and lightweight. The bike is equipped with Shimano Claris groupset and mechanical disc brakes. With Future Shock technology in the front, it offers extra comfort by absorbing vibrations from rough surfaces. Tubeless-ready tires enhance its off-road capabilities.
Marin Nicasio
The Marin Nicasio is known for its classic design and versatile performance. Built with chromoly steel, the frame is strong and able to absorb road vibrations effectively. It features a Shimano Claris groupset and mechanical disc brakes. The endurance geometry favors long rides and provides excellent handling on mixed terrains. Its ability to fit wider tires makes it a practical choice for varied conditions.
Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1
The Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1 is an excellent budget option with a focus on durability. Its aluminum frame is complemented by a carbon fork, providing a sturdy yet comfortable ride. The bike includes a Shimano Sora groupset and Tektro mechanical disc brakes. The 700c wheels come with wider tires for better grip on gravel paths. With its mount points for racks and fenders, it’s ideal for adventure cycling and commuting.
Raleigh Willard 1
The Raleigh Willard 1 is a solid entry-level gravel bike. It features an aluminum frame and a carbon fork, which keeps the weight low and improves ride quality. The bike uses a Shimano Claris groupset paired with mechanical disc brakes. Its geometry is designed for stability, making it a confidence-inspiring choice for new gravel riders. You’ll also appreciate the wider tire clearance, which allows for extra traction on rough trails.
Diamondback Haanjo 3
The Diamondback Haanjo 3 is known for its versatility and ruggedness. It boasts an aluminum frame and a carbon fork, promoting a balanced and responsive ride. The bike operates with a Shimano Sora groupset and Tektro mechanical disc brakes. It’s designed to handle both paved roads and off-road paths comfortably. With numerous mounts for bikepacking gear, it’s an adventure-ready gravel bike.
Surly Straggler
The Surly Straggler stands out with its steel frame, making it a resilient and durable bike. It offers versatility with its ability to fit both 700c and 650b wheels. It features a SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain and reliable Avid disc brakes. The bike’s geometry caters to both commuting and long-distance rides. Its wider tire clearance provides better performance on mixed terrain.
Cube Nuroad Pro
The Cube Nuroad Pro combines affordability with German engineering precision. Its aluminum frame is paired with a carbon fork for a comfortable and responsive ride. It employs the Shimano Sora groupset and mechanical disc brakes. The bike includes wider tires and mudguard mounts, making it suitable for all-weather riding and light off-road adventures.
Choosing the right gravel bike involves considering factors like frame material, groupset, brake type, and additional features such as tire clearance and mounts for accessories. These bikes offer a mix of those elements within a budget-friendly range, providing a great starting point for enjoying the increasingly popular world of gravel biking.