The different makers of bikes have different opinions on what adventure road geometry should be, but the consensus is that these bikes have a lot in common with the road bikes, but they have a more relaxed geometry, a higher stack in height for a more heads-up riding position, and sometimes, the longer chains stay for stability when carrying a load.
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The tires of the gravel bikes are wider than those of the road tires, but they have a semi-slick rubber that will not hold you back while you ride on the road, this will help you easily switch between roads.
Generally, gravel (or adventure) bikes are not made for technical, wooded areas and muddy racing, their bottom bracket stays in position, which is something similar to that of the road bike, and their tire clearance does not need to be great. Since it is not likely for you to get off your bike, and you get to run over obstacles and up banks, you will find that disc brakes are mostly used, as its low weight is very important.
What are Gravel Bikes Good for?
Gravel bikes are great steeds for commuting or touring duties, with comfortable and great geometry, shorter reach, and robust wheels and tires means that these bikes can handle hefty mileage over rougher terrains. Therefore, these bikes come with panniers, mudguards and drink bottles, just so you can load them up if you ever need to.
Gravel bikes are loved for their versatility, and with just one bike, you can cover a huge spectrum of riding styles, but there are certain variations, and this is a whole gamut. Before you get a gravel bike, you should ask yourself what it is you would need to use it for, and what features you will need to see that will be crucial to your buying choice.
What are some of These Features?
It doesn’t matter what end of spectrum a gravel bike falls under, it will surely have these three identifying features: mudguards and racks eyelets, disc brakes, and tire clearance.
Mudguards and Rack Eyelets: A rack is a reliable way of holding large goods. If you want to tour in comfort, that is, you want to carry a tent and not a bivi bag, but still want to have enough kit, then you would want to have the load-carrying rack. The eyelets secure the mudguards.
Disc Brakes: These now are seen on many road bikes available in the market.