Thanks to the booming interest around Cyclocross and Gravel racing, the key characteristics for the perfect fast commuter bike have now been honed into a new class of machine – fast, tough, nimble and comfortable on rough roads!
Although Gravel bikes (Gravel-Grinders/Adventure/Off-Road Racers) have a racing pedigree, they manage to strike a balance that makes them perfect all-conditions all-round commuters for most regular riders. Perfect for fast commuting, distance road rides, bumpy river paths or dirt road explorations on the weekend (you can even race on these if that's your thing).
Gravel Bikes For Commuting
The easiest way to describe these bikes is to imagine a Road bike built with relaxed geometry, a lower centre of gravity and stronger frame/components with better clearance for mud.
This makes Gravel bikes more durable than their nimble Road cousins, and more comfortable over long distances and rough surfaces like gravel roads or poorly maintained city streets.
These are all characteristics that make them a perfect fast commuter.
Versatility is key to this category of bikes. They are built for long rides that can lead anywhere – whether it’s a rough commute in the wet, a nip down that dirt track you’ve always just ridden past or a fully blown weekend off-road bike packing adventure. These bikes are the true all-rounders of the cycling world and allow you to just follow your nose, knowing that your bike will be able to handle the challenge.
Gravel Bikes For Bikepacking
For a true getaway adventure, nothing beats loading up your gear and heading off on the bike. Australia offers some breathtaking opportunities for this type of riding - from scenic and simple, to the truly challenging. Just have a look online for routes.
If this idea appeals, check out our Reid Riders who rode the Victorian High Country and Falls Creek then produced this guide for getting started with Bikepacking.
It’s a great way to get off the beaten track and explore some peaceful countryside without the hassle of cars to ruin your vibe.
Gravel Bikes For Racing
Gravel racing became really popular in America partly because of the vast network of dirt roads criss-crossing the country. Australia has similar infrastructure just sitting there waiting to be ridden, so it's no surprise the sport is really taking off here too now.
Gravel racing is typically a distance affair on a dirt road with some tracks to link up road sections, technical features and hill climbs. Riding on dirt between 100 to 200 km is tough on body, mind and gear so the bikes are built accordingly.
Gravel Bike Essentials
Gravel Helmets
Light, strong and comfortably vented helmets for commuting or off-piste adventures.
Bike Luggage/Bags
All the bags and luggage you need on the bike for the daily grind or a weekend on the road.
Bike Lights
Front and rear bike lights including USB charging models to stay visible on the road.
