Road Bikes Vs Gravel Bikes | What Should YOU Buy?

Summary

In this video, Louis from Recycle Bicycle Sales compares road bikes and gravel bikes, exploring key differences like tire size, drivetrain, and frame materials. He explains the pros and cons of each type, with road bikes being ideal for on-road racing and gravel bikes offering versatility for off-road adventures. Gravel bikes can be used for both road and off-road rides, making them more adaptable, while road bikes are designed for speed on smooth surfaces. Louis also discusses pricing, categories, and provides insights on who should choose each type of bike.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gravel bikes have larger tires and more tire clearance than road bikes, providing better grip and puncture protection for off-road riding.
• 🚴 Road bikes typically feature narrower tires (around 23-32 mm) designed for speed and smooth road riding, with less tire clearance compared to gravel bikes.
• 🔧 Gravel bike riders are more likely to choose tubeless tires, offering better puncture protection and improved comfort over long rides.
• 🚵 Gravel tires are wider and have knobs on the sides, ideal for off-road conditions like mud, sticks, and stones, while road tires are smoother for better road performance.
• 🛠 Gravel bikes often feature a single chain ring in the front, with a larger cassette in the back, while road bikes commonly have two chain rings in the front for a broader gear range.
• ⚙️ Road bikes are more likely to be upgraded with electric gears for easier shifting, while gravel bike riders prefer mechanical gears for reliability during long adventures.
• 🌍 Gravel bikes usually have a slacker head angle and sometimes a steeper seat tube, offering better stability and comfort for off-road terrain.
• 🧳 Gravel bikes are more versatile, with some models designed for bikepacking and long-distance trips, often made from steel to handle extra weight.
• ⏱ Road bikes are faster on the road due to their lightweight design and narrower tires, but gravel bikes require more effort to maintain speed on paved surfaces.
• 💸 Road bikes generally start at around $1,000, while gravel bikes are typically priced at $2,000 and above due to newer technology and development.
• 🚗 Road bikes are ideal for racing and road cycling enthusiasts, while gravel bikes are suited for those who enjoy adventure, off-road exploration, and bikepacking.

Q & A

What is the main difference between a road bike and a gravel bike?

The main difference is that a road bike is designed primarily for riding on smooth, paved roads, while a gravel bike is made for riding on unpaved surfaces like gravel paths, dirt trails, and mixed terrain.

How do the tires of a gravel bike differ from those of a road bike?

Gravel bikes have wider tires, typically 35mm or more, with more tread for better grip on off-road surfaces. Road bikes have narrower, slicker tires, generally between 23mm and 32mm, designed for smooth, fast rolling on paved roads.

Why do gravel bike riders often choose tubeless tires?

Gravel bike riders choose tubeless tires because they offer better puncture protection and increased comfort. Tubeless tires allow for lower tire pressure, which helps absorb bumps and provides a smoother ride on rough surfaces.

What drivetrain differences are common between road bikes and gravel bikes?

Road bikes typically have two chainrings in the front and multiple cogs in the back for a wide gear range. Gravel bikes often have a single chainring in the front, with a wide-range cassette at the back to accommodate various terrains while maintaining a simpler, more durable setup.

What is the difference in bike geometry between road bikes and gravel bikes?

Gravel bikes generally have a slacker head angle for greater comfort and stability on rough terrain, and sometimes a steeper seat tube to help riders shift their weight forward. Road bikes usually have a steeper head angle for more responsive handling on smooth roads.

What frame materials are commonly used for gravel bikes?

Gravel bikes are often made from carbon fiber or steel. Carbon fiber is lightweight and suitable for racing or cyclocross, while steel is used for touring bikes due to its durability and ability to carry extra weight, such as camping gear.

What types of bikes are commonly found within the road bike category?

Road bikes are typically categorized into lightweight racing bikes, aerodynamic fast bikes, and endurance bikes. Endurance bikes have larger tires and more relaxed geometry for comfort on longer rides.

How versatile is a gravel bike compared to a road bike?

Gravel bikes are more versatile than road bikes. They can be used for both road and off-road riding, with the option to swap out tires for road-focused ones. Road bikes, while they can handle light gravel, are not designed for rough, unpaved surfaces.

What is the expected price range for road and gravel bikes?

A good road bike generally starts around $1,000, while a gravel bike tends to start at around $2,000 due to the newer technology and increased research and development that has gone into making gravel bikes more specialized.

Which type of bike is recommended for someone new to bike racing or group rides?

A road bike is recommended for someone new to bike racing or group rides. It is specifically designed for fast road riding and is ideal for people who want to join local races or group rides focused on paved surfaces.