Carbon Gravel Frame

How to choose?

Graro Frame:
Versatile touring/adventure frame with ample clearance, mounting points and durable construction. Progressive gravel geometry and aerodynamic design for top-notch performance on any terrain.

X-Gravel 2 Frame:
An upgraded version of the popular X-Gravel that retains the core design and materials. Added features include internal cable routing for improved aesthetics, reduced drag, and enhanced performance. A reliable and versatile choice that appeals to both functionality and style.

GRA02 Frame:
Ultra-lightweight all-carbon frameset constructed from aerospace-grade Toray T700 carbon. Internal cable routing and rigid fork for precise handling. Extremely light at 1,530 grams while supporting wide tires.

In short, the Graro is built for endless off-road adventures. The X-Gravel 2 strikes a balance between function, looks and proven success. Meanwhile, the GRA02 prioritizes featherweight performance through advanced carbon construction. All offer versatile options - choose based on your priorities and intended use.

Often referred to as the best do-it-all machines, gravel bikes have become somewhat popular recently since they help to close the distance between road riding and off-road experiences. Cyclists that want flexibility to explore varied terrain without the restrictions of conventional road bikes or mountain bikes choose them mostly for their adaptability, comfort, and capability. This page explores the distinguishing characteristics, main advantages, and factors to be taken into account for gravel bikes so that one may fully appreciate why they stand out in the riding scene.

What Defines a Gravel Bike?

Fundamentally, gravel bikes are made to go on a wide spectrum of surfaces, from smooth tarmac to rough dirt roads and all points in between. They have various unique qualities:

Generally speaking, gravel bikes have a more laid-back geometry than road bikes. Over uneven ground, the longer wheelbase, slacker head tube angle, and higher stack height offer more comfort and stability. This qualifies them for lengthy rides since it provides a more straight posture that lessens strain on the back and neck.

Among the defining features of gravel bikes is their large tire clearance. Most versions let tires ranging from 35mm to 50mm; some let even more wide alternatives. On uneven ground, these bigger tires give superior grip, cushioning, and traction, therefore enabling riders to boldly negotiate loose gravel, mud, and rocky courses.

Gravel bike frames are available in aluminium, carbon fibre, steel, and titanium among other materials. Every material has special advantages: titanium gives a mix of strength, comfort, and lifespan; carbon fibre is lightweight and stiff; aluminium is affordable and durable; steel delivers a smooth and comfortable ride.

Multiple mounting locations on gravel bikes enable attachments include bottle cages, racks, fenders, and frame bags. For bikepacking and long-distance excursions, where carrying extra kit is crucial, they are perfect.

Gravel bikes sometimes have wide-range gearing schemes to negotiate different terrain. While some models use 2x systems for a larger gear range, many have 1x (single-chainring) drivetrains for dependability and simplicity. Increasingly frequent electronic shifting systems provide exact and easy gear changes.

Standard on dirt bikes are hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, which offer consistent and strong stopping force in all weather. This is especially crucial while cycling on uneven or slick ground.

Benefits of Gravel Bikes

The many benefits gravel bikes provide help to explain their increasing popularity:

Gravel bikes are incredibly versatile, easily moving between road, gravel, and light trail riding. For those who appreciate diversity, this adaptability replaces the need for several bikes, so making them a sensible and reasonably priced option.

Comfort: Gravel bikes are far more pleasant than regular road cycles because of their laid-back shape, larger tires, and shock-absorbing ability. Long rides or multi-day excursions when tiredness can strike benefit greatly from this.

Exploration of far-off locations is ideal for gravel bikes, which have lots of mounting places and strong construction. Whether it's a multi-week expedition or a weekend bikepacking excursion, these bikes are made to withstand the rigours of kit hauling and challenging terrain.

More control and handling from the wider tires and solid geometry helps especially on loose or erratic ground. For less experienced riders or those straying off paved roads, gravel bikes are therefore a safer choice.

Gravel cycling has created a strong community with many events and races all around. From grassroots events to mass-participation rides like the Dirty Kanza (now Unbound Gravel), gravel biking provides a friendly and inclusive setting for riders of all abilities.

Considerations When Choosing a Gravel Bike

Though gravel bikes are quite flexible, choosing the correct one depends on various criteria:

Designed Use: Consider the kind of terrain you will be most typically riding. A more road-oriented gravel bike with smaller tires and a racier profile might fit you if you intend to follow smoother gravel and light trails. Search for versions with more relaxed geometry, larger tires, and extra durability for tough off-road exploits.

Performance is largely influenced by tyre width and tread design. For loose or muddy conditions, wider tires with aggressive tread are optimal; on mixed soils and hard-packed gravel, smaller, smoother tires are preferred.

Budget and priorities will determine the frame material you use. Though they are expensive, carbon frames are lightweight and highly performing. While steel and titanium give unparalleled ride quality and lifetime, aluminium is reasonably priced and strong.

Gravel bikes range in price from entry-level models around $1,000 to high-end choices topping $5,000. Developing a budget and knowing the trade-offs at several pricing points will allow you to focus your decisions.

Gearing: Think about the drivetrain that would fit your riding terrain and style. While 2x systems give a larger variety of gears for diverse conditions, 1x drivetrains are simpler and less prone to mechanical problems.

Make sure the bike has the mounting points you need for your planned purpose. See also compatibility for upgrades including extra storage options, dynamo hubs, or dropper posts.

The Growing Appeal of Gravel Biking

The appeal of gravel biking is its capacity to transcend conventional cycling disciplines' limitations. It provides a welcome relief from the demands of competitive road riding, an adventure, and encouragement of discovery. Furthermore making gravel events a friendly place for bikers from all backgrounds is their inclusive and community-driven character.

Furthermore improving the experience are the development of gravel-specific accessories and components. From lightweight bikepacking gear to tubeless tires and gravel-specific shoes, the industry's dedication to this market guarantees ongoing invention and expansion.

Conclusion

Gravel bikes reflect a change in riding behaviour rather than only a trend. Their unmatched flexibility and mobility come from blending the finest features of road, cyclocross, and mountain biking. A dirt bike can provide countless opportunities regardless of your level of experience riding or your search for an all-rounder to begin your path. One dirt road at a time, the globe is yours to discover with the correct bike and a spirit of adventure.

The ICAN Gravel bike is a prime example of gravel biking at its finest. Made from a blend of T700, T800, and T1000 carbon fiber, these bikes achieve the perfect balance of lightness and durability for outstanding gravel performance. Unmatched performance, minimal weight. No compromises with a carbon gravel bike.