How is a gravel bike different from a road bike?

26-07-21 | Simon

Although a gravel bike and a road bike look quite similar there are some very important differences. One of the key differences is the frame shape and geometry. The shape and geometry of a frame dictates how it will handle, how comfortable it is to ride and also what type of riding it is best suited to. The geometry of a frame is simply the angles the tubes are joined together at. Road geometry traditionally puts the weight of the rider further forward and places the rider lower on the bike for better control at high speeds and added aerodynamic benefits. Gravel bike geometry puts the weight further to the centre of the bike and combines with a higher front end to lift the rider a little. This increases downhill confidence and makes it more comfortable to ride off road. The angle of the fork (the head angle) is often ‘slacker’ on a gravel bike which makes the steering a bit slower and less prone to feeling a little unsteady. The length of the bike between the wheels is often longer on a gravel bike too. This makes a gravel bike more stable when descending. 

The size of the tyre (and wheel) you can fit is also a big difference between the two. A traditional road bike with rim brakes may have clearance to fit a 25 or 28mm wide tyre as a maximum whereas a gravel bike with disc brakes can fit tyres up to twice the width - basically mountain bike sizes! Many gravel bikes can also run a smaller 650b wheel size which means you can fit an even wider tyre than on the standard 700c road size wheel. 

Gravel bikes also tend to come fitted with wider handlebars for added control when riding off-road. These can also be of the ‘flared’ style where the lower section is wider than the top. This is to add even more control when descending at speed.