Gravel Bikes or Adventure bikes take the best from Tourers, Cyclocross Bikes, and Commuter Bikes and amalgamate them into one extremely versatile do-it-all bicycle. Adventure bikes are without question the most versatile bikes you can ride, capable of handling any bridleway, towpath, trail, track or road that you can throw at it.
Gravel bikes are are versatile, multi-surface bikes that make it easy to transition from roads to gravel paths. They have wide tyres (28c+, right up to 40c) for comfort and grip, clearance for mud, mounts for bottle cages, unlike cyclocross race bikes, sometimes mounts for pannier racks for longer adventures. They feature a lower bottom bracket than a cyclocross race bike (less need for clearance), disc brakes for quick stopping and sometimes have flared handlebars for control. Bikes designed specifically for gravel also have extra mounts that make it easier to carry more gear and water, so you can explore further and take everything you need.
Adventure and gravel bikes occupy much of the same space, and, in most cases are two different names for the same machines. This is because of the nuances between the types of riding available in the USA (long open gravel roads) and the UK (bridleways and canal paths).
Gravel bikes are ideal for multi-terrain adventures – they’ll take you on bridlepaths, farm tracks, and of course gravel.
Do I need to ride a gravel-specific bike?
At its core, gravel riding is like riding on the road: you can technically do it on anything. But you’ll be a lot more comfortable and efficient on an actual gravel bike because they’re built specifically to handle more demanding surfaces.
If adventure strikes and you don’t have access to a true gravel bike, we’d recommend heading out on a bike with disc brakes and wider tyres. These things will give you more control, confidence and stopping power on loose and muddy terrain.
The Pedal Revolution gravel bike range is a rugged range of bikes designed to excel across a variety of terrains and with ultimate versatility. Available in 4 different frame materials (Titanium, Carbon, Aluminium and Chromoly). Compatible with both 650b MTB and 700c road wheels you can choose the tyres you need for your preferred style of riding. Added versatility is provide by the addition of mudguard and pannier rack mounts which makes the gravel bike range not only suited to road and off-road riding but also a superb multi terrain light tourer / bike trekker or all-weather commuter.
We have a fantastic selection of mens and womens Gravel /Adventure bikes on sale and available to buy online however if you are finding it all a little confusing or just want some advice please just drop us an email or call and we can help you find the bike that is perfect for you