OBERSON BUYING GUIDE
How to choose a gravel bike
Tires, wheels, frame material, geometry, and fit: Oberson's experts explain how to choose the right gravel bike.
IN BRIEF
How to choose a gravel bike
To choose a gravel bike, start by thinking about how you'll use it: mixed routes (asphalt and gravel), rougher forest paths and easy trails, long bike-packing trips, or races. These uses influence the geometry, tire width and profile, and the number of mounting points. The frame material then allows you to adjust comfort and performance according to your goals and budget.
Which gravel bike to choose based on your use?
Choosing a gravel bike depends first and foremost on how you plan to use it. Depending on your routes, opt for a geometry, tires, and features suited to your riding style.
Each type of use corresponds to key characteristics to prioritize:
Mixed terrain (asphalt and gravel)
Semi-slick tires from 32 to 40 mm, designed to offer good performance on asphalt while maintaining grip on gravel.
Forest roads and non-technical trails
More open and stable geometry, comfortable position, and 38mm and wider knobby tires. Some models may also include suspension.
Bike-packing
Comfortable geometry, numerous attachment points for carrying bags, and good stability when loaded.
Race
More athletic geometry, more aerodynamic position, tires according to the course terrain, reduced weight
Which tires and wheels should you choose for a gravel bike?
Choose your tires and wheels based on your preferred terrain: wider tires offer more comfort and control on loose and technical surfaces, while narrower tires prioritize speed and efficiency on hard and compact surfaces.
Tire width largely determines how a bike handles on different types of surfaces.
• 32–40 mm — Faster and more efficient on asphalt and compact gravel
• 38–45 mm — Versatile and performs well on all surfaces
• 42–54 mm — More comfort and control on less-ridden forest roads and easy trails
Most gravel tires are tubeless-compatible, which allows for lower pressures for more comfort and grip, while also reducing the risk of punctures.
Tread
Tire tread pattern influences the balance between grip and efficiency.
• Semi-slick tread — Faster on mixed terrain and rolling surfaces
• More pronounced knobs — Better traction on loose gravel or wet conditions
Tires are relatively inexpensive to change, making it easy to adapt your bike to different types of rides. Just make sure your wheels are compatible with the desired tire width.
Wheels
Wheel diameter affects the bike's efficiency and ability to adapt to varying terrain.
• 700c — More efficient on rolling surfaces and for long distances
• 650b — Allows for wider tires for more comfort and control on more technical terrain
Make sure the frame can accommodate your desired tire width and wheel diameter, as clearance is limited by the frame and cannot be modified.
What geometry and comfort level should I choose for a gravel bike?
Choose the geometry based on the desired level of comfort and performance. A more aggressive geometry places the rider in a lower position, favoring aerodynamics and speed. A more comfort-oriented geometry offers a more upright position and prioritizes comfort and control.
• Lower position — More aerodynamic, improves efficiency on long, rolling sections
• More upright position — More comfortable, reduces neck, back, and hand fatigue
Aluminum or carbon: which frame material to choose for a gravel bike?
Choose the frame material according to your budget and your priorities in terms of comfort and performance. Aluminum is more affordable and very durable, while carbon is lighter, more efficient, and absorbs vibrations better.
Aluminum
• More affordable
• Slightly heavier than carbon
• Excellent choice for most cyclists
Carbon
• Lighter
• Absorbs vibrations better for more comfort
• Ideal for performance-oriented rides
Which type of transmission should I choose?
For a gravel bike, the choice between a single chainring and a double chainring mostly depends on the terrain and intended use.
Single Chainring
• It's for you if you plan rides on rougher trails.
• It ensures better gear shifting, thus preventing chain drops.
• It allows you to manipulate the handlebars less, so you can focus on the trail.
• Since you don't have a front derailleur, there's less adjustment to make and the risk of breakage is reduced.
Double Chainring
• It's for you if you plan to do a lot of road riding.
• You get better gear ratios. This means you can find your ideal cadence depending on the wind, topography, and your fatigue level. Your pedal stroke is optimized.
How to choose the right size and fit for a gravel bike?
Choose your gravel bike size based on your body measurements. Trying different sizes, models, and brands is still the best way to find an optimal fit.
• Size Guide — Rely on the manufacturer for your starting point
• Between two sizes — Smaller = maneuverability, larger = stability
• Position — Comfortable, without stretching or compression
• Standover — Standing over the bike without discomfort
What equipment and accessories do you need for gravel cycling?
To fully enjoy your gravel rides, a few essential accessories enhance comfort, safety, and autonomy.
• Helmet — Essential for safety
• Cycling shorts with chamois — Necessary for comfort
• Bags, panniers, or backpack (saddle, handlebar, frame) — To carry water, tools, and clothing
• Hydration — Water bottles or hydration pack depending on the duration of the rides
• Basic tools — Pump, inner tube, tire levers, and multi-tool
FAQ — How to choose a gravel bike
Find here the answers to the most frequently asked questions about choosing gravel bikes.
What should I wear for gravel biking?
Wear breathable and comfortable clothing. Gravel biking doesn't require a specific style: you can opt for an outfit inspired by road cycling or mountain biking, depending on your preferences. Whatever your style, cycling shorts with a chamois are essential for comfort.
Where to go gravel biking?
Gravel biking is practiced on a wide variety of routes, including country roads, bike paths, forest roads, and even less technical trails. In Quebec, national parks, wildlife reserves, and ZECs offer many possibilities.
What is the difference between a gravel bike and a road bike?
A gravel bike is more versatile than a road bike. They are designed for forest paths, but offer good performance on a variety of surfaces thanks to wider tires and more stable geometry. A road bike, on the other hand, is optimized for speed on asphalt.
Can a gravel bike be used as a road bike?
Yes, a gravel bike can be used effectively on the road. By opting for narrower tires than those used for gravel, with a semi-slick or slick profile, it offers good performance on asphalt and can provide a similar feel to a road bike. Even with typical gravel tires, they perform well on the road, although they won't match the speed and efficiency of a road bike.
Can you ride a gravel bike on narrow trails?
Yes, gravel bikes can be ridden on some narrow trails, especially flowing trails with few obstacles. Wider tires and stable geometry help maintain control on dirt paths. That said, they are not designed for very technical trails with steep inclines, roots, or large rocks. For more demanding routes, a mountain bike remains the best choice.
Is a gravel bike a good choice for beginners?
Yes, gravel bikes are often an excellent choice for beginners due to their versatility and stable handling. They allow you to ride on a wide variety of surfaces, from paved roads to dirt paths, without needing multiple bikes. Their more relaxed geometry also offers a more comfortable and forgiving position than performance-oriented road bikes.
Gravel Bikes at Oberson
Find the right gravel bike
At Oberson, you will find a selection of gravel bikes suitable for all types of terrain, from fast rides linking paved roads and dirt tracks to bikepacking deep in nature. Whether you're looking for performance, versatility, or comfort, our specialists are here to help you make the right choice. Contact us online or visit our stores in Laval or Brossard for advice and to try out different models.
