Embracing Gravel Riding: 5 Compelling Reasons Why Mountain Bikers Are Joining In

Gravel bikes have surged in popularity, yet many die-hard mountain bikers remain sceptical. To be candid, we shared those initial reservations. Here, we present five compelling reasons why gravel grinding deserves a second look.

Gravel bikes serve as a bridge between the worlds of mountain biking and road cycling. From the perspective of mountain biking enthusiasts, they may seem like road bikes fitted with knobby tires or vintage hardtails adorned with drop bars.

Yet, there are nuanced distinctions: wider tires and handlebars, geometry conducive to smoother rides, and generally more comfortable seating positions. Presently, gravel bikes find favour primarily among road cyclists seeking escape from congested highways. However, the world of gravel riding is rapidly evolving, offering a broader range of experiences that now intrigue mountain bikers. Innovative bikes equipped with suspension components and dropper posts are entering the market under monikers like "Gravelduro" or "Gravity-Gravel." The boundaries between mountain and gravel bikes are blurring; the newest Gravel bikes underline the industry's recognition of the growing allure of gravel biking among both mountain bikers and road cyclists. We'll delve into what might prompt mountain bikers, to embrace gravel biking.

1. Rapid Mud Drying

For many mountain bikers, winter heralds a significant drop in ride time. Muddy trails necessitate laborious post-ride cleanups, not to mention the temperature swings between uphill and downhill sections. Gravel roads and tarmac dry far quicker than trails, rendering gravel bikes ideal companions during the colder months. The consistent speed and effort level simplify clothing choices. However, it's crucial to safeguard your hands from the wind's full force, as they often endure reduced circulation compared to mountain biking.

2. Gravel biking is underbiking on a new level

Modern enduro bikes handle rough DH trails and bike parks adeptly. Yet, they can render less demanding trails somewhat lackluster. This phenomenon particularly affects home trails, which tend to be less challenging. Enter the rising trend of underbiking—riding bikes at their limits on trails that may be too demanding for them. Gravel bikes are at the forefront of this movement, injecting excitement into formerly mundane trails. The lower, more aggressive posture of drop bars pushes you out of your comfort zone, making easy trails exhilarating once more. With practice, you'll be astonished by what you can achieve on these unsuspended, relatively narrow-tired machines. However, remember that drop bar bikes lean more towards road biking than mountain biking. Even cross-country hardtails, arguably the most efficient mountain bike category, outperform gravel bikes off-road. Nevertheless, gravel bikes excel as lightweight, swift options designed for diverse surfaces.

3. Gravel is the Superior Road Biking?

When seeking a road bike, gravitate towards a gravel bike over a racing model. Whether for fitness training or more cycling time sans trails, gravel bikes offer a superior choice. Unless you're obsessed with squeezing out every ounce of efficiency, gravel bikes simply make more sense than race bikes. They typically feature a lower saddle-to-bar drop, resulting in a more upright, comfortable riding posture, with a minimal aerodynamic trade-off. Their versatility extends to a broader range of applications. Wider tires enhance vibration dampening on gravel and uneven asphalt roads, while frame and fork design smooths the ride and accommodates rougher surfaces. Your wrists and back will appreciate the difference. Gravel bikes grant you more freedom in route planning, allowing spontaneous exploration of your local area. Often, intriguing places remain unexplored due to their inaccessibility by mountain or road bikes. A gravel bike eliminates these constraints and prioritizes the enjoyment of exploration over performance or efficiency.

4. Unparalleled Versatility

Gravel bikes reign supreme in versatility, adapting to quick rides, bikepacking adventures, exploratory journeys, and even singletrack trails. However, not all gravel bikes are identical, and your intended use should guide your selection. Gravel race bikes excel in low rolling resistance, minimal weight, and sporty handling, akin to classic road bikes, prioritizing gravel efficiency over comfort and practicality. Backroad-gravel bikes strike a balance, suitable for mixed terrains like asphalt, gravel, and forest trails. Adventure-gravel bikes are tailored for off-road excursions, featuring attachment points for luggage and wider handlebars for enhanced stability on rugged terrain. Gravity-gravel bikes are a recent addition, closely mirroring mountain bike geometry, equipped with dropper posts and suspension elements. Of all gravel bikes, they handle technical trails best, yet remain far more efficient on gravel or asphalt compared to mountain bikes.

5. Cycling's Inherent Fun

Ultimately, it's imperative to remember that cycling is about fun regardless of the bike category. From down-country to gravelduro to off-road aero-gravel, these categories might sound exotic, but at their core, they're all bikes. Cycling immerses you in the great outdoors, clears your mind, and provides respite from daily routines. Biking encourages us to challenge our comfort zones and embrace adventures. Ultimately, the type of bike matters less than the joy of riding itself. So, enjoy the ride and fret less about others' opinions. Gravel bikes offer yet another avenue to savour the freedom of two-wheel exploration and relish life to the fullest.

Mountain bikers often exhibit hesitance towards new trends, as evidenced by the initial scepticism surrounding eMTBs, dropper posts, and 29ers. Nevertheless, the undeniable truth remains: gravel bikes are undeniably enjoyable. With a vast spectrum of possibilities, from replacing road bikes to becoming fitness companions or adventure accomplices, gravel biking has something for everyone.