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.
AT A GLANCE
How to Choose a Gravel Bike
To choose a gravel bike, start by thinking about how you’ll use it: mixed-surface rides (pavement and gravel), rougher forest roads and easy singletrack, long bikepacking outings, or racing. The different uses influence geometry, tire width and tread, and the number of mounting points. Frame material then helps fine-tune comfort and performance based on your goals and budget.
Which gravel bike should you choose based on your riding style?
You should choose a gravel bike primarily based on how you plan to use it. The geometry, tires, and features should match your riding style.
Each type of riding calls for specific features:
Mixed-surface rides (pavement and gravel)
Semi-slick tires in the 32 to 40 mm range, designed to deliver efficient performance on pavement while maintaining traction on gravel.
Rougher forest roads and easy singletrack
More relaxed, stable geometry; a comfortable riding position; 38 mm+ tires with an aggressive tread; and possibly some suspension.
Bikepacking
Comfort-oriented geometry, plenty of mounting points, and stability under load.
Racing
Performance-oriented geometry, more aerodynamic riding position, tires suited to the terrain, and low weight.
Which tires and wheels should you choose for a gravel bike?
Choose your tires and wheels based on your typical riding terrain. Wider tires offer more comfort and control on loose, technical surfaces, while narrower ones are faster and more efficient on hard, compact surfaces.
Tire width largely determines how the bike handles on different surfaces.
• 32–40 mm — Faster and more efficient on pavement and compact gravel
• 38–45 mm — Versatile and efficient on all surfaces
• 42–54 mm — More comfort and control on rough forest roads and easy singletrack
Most gravel tires are tubeless-compatible, allowing you to run lower pressures for more comfort and grip while reducing the risk of punctures.
Tread Pattern
The tire’s tread pattern influences the balance between grip and efficiency.
• Semi-slick tread — Faster on mixed-surface rides and smoother roads
• More aggressive tread — Better traction on loose gravel or in wet conditions
Tires are relatively inexpensive to change, so it’s easy to adapt your bike to different types of riding. Just be sure that the wheels are compatible with the desired tire width.
Wheels
Wheel diameter influences efficiency and how well the bike adapts to challenging terrain.
• 700c — More efficient on smoother surfaces and over long distances
• 650b — Allows for wider tires, which provide more comfort and control on more
technical terrain
Make sure the frame has enough clearance for your desired tire width and wheel size. Clearance is limited by the frame and cannot be changed.
What geometry and comfort level should you choose for a gravel bike?
Choose the geometry based on your desired level of comfort and performance. A more performance-oriented geometry puts the rider in a lower position and improves aerodynamics and speed. A more comfort-oriented geometry enables a more upright position and prioritizes comfort and control.
• Lower position — More aerodynamic, improves efficiency on long, smooth sections
• More upright position — More comfortable, reduces fatigue in the neck, back, and hands
Aluminum or carbon: which frame material should you choose for a gravel bike?
Choose your frame material based on your budget and priorities for comfort and performance. Aluminum is more affordable and quite durable. Carbon is lighter, more responsive, and better at absorbing vibrations.
Aluminum
• Cheaper
• A bit heavier than carbon
• An excellent choice for most cyclists
Carbon
• Lighter
• Better at dampening vibrations for more comfort
• Perfect for performance-oriented riding
What type of drivetrain should I choose?
For a gravel bike, choosing between a single or double chainring mainly comes down to the where and how you plan to ride.
Single chainring
- This is what you need if you’re planning rides on bumpy trails.
- It provides a more reliable drivetrain with a lower risk of your chain skipping.
- This allows you to focus less on your shifters and more on the trail.
- Since you don’t have a front derailleur, you need to make fewer adjustments, and the risk of breakage is reduced.
Double chainring
- This is the best choice for you if you plan on doing a lot of riding on roads.
- It will give you better gear ratios. This means that you can ride at your ideal cadence depending on the wind, the topography and your energy level. Your pedal stroke will have the highest possible efficiency.
How do you choose the right size and fit for a gravel bike?
Choose your gravel bike size based on your height and build. Trying different sizes, models, and brands is the best way to find the right fit.
• Size chart — Use the manufacturer’s chart as your starting point
• Between sizes — Smaller = nimbler, larger = more stable
• Position — Comfortable, without feeling stretched or cramped
• Standover clearance — You should be able to stand over the bike with a bit of room to spare
What gear and accessories do you need for gravel biking?
To get the most out of your gravel rides, a few essential items improve comfort, safety, and self-sufficiency.
• Helmet — Essential for safety
• Bike shorts with a chamois pad — Necessary for comfort
• Bags or a backpack (saddle, handlebar, frame) — To carry water, tools, and extra layers
• Hydration — Bottles or a hydration pack, depending on ride
duration
• Basic tools — Pump, spare tube, tire levers, and a multi-tool
FAQ — How to Choose a Gravel Bike
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about gravel bikes.
What should you wear gravel biking?
Wear breathable, comfortable clothing. There isn’t a specific gravel riding style. You can opt for road or mountain biking apparel, depending on your preferences. Whatever your style, padded shorts are essential for comfort.
Where to go gravel biking?
Gravel riding can take you onto a wide range of routes that connect country roads, bike paths, forest roads, and even smooth trails. In Quebec, national parks, wildlife reserves, and ZECs offer plenty of routes, with extensive networks of gravel and dirt forest roads through wild, scenic landscapes.
What is the difference between a gravel bike and a road bike?
Gravel bikes are more versatile than a road bike. They’re designed for forest roads but perform well across a variety of surfaces thanks to wider tires and more stable geometry. Road bikes, on the other hand, are optimized for speed on pavement.
Can you use a gravel bike as a road bike?
Yes, gravel bikes can be used effectively on the road. With narrower tires than those typically used for gravel and a semi-slick or slick tread, they’re efficient on pavement and can feel similar to a road bike. Even with typical gravel tires, they still perform well on the road, though they’re not as fast or efficient as a dedicated road bike.
Can you ride a gravel bike on singletrack?
Yes, gravel bikes can handle some singletrack, especially smooth, flowy trails with few obstacles. Wider tires and a stable geometry help maintain control on hard-packed dirt paths. That said, they’re not designed for highly technical trails with steep drops, roots, or large rocks. For more demanding singletrack, a mountain bike is the better choice.
Is a gravel bike a good choice for beginners?
Yes, gravel bikes are often a great choice for beginners thanks to their versatility and stable handling. They allow you to ride on a wide range of surfaces, from paved roads to dirt paths, without needing multiple bikes. Their more relaxed geometry also tends to be more comfortable and forgiving than performance-focused road bikes.
Gravel Bikes at Oberson
Find the right gravel bike
At Oberson, you’ll find a selection of gravel bikes for all types of rides, from quick outings linking up paved roads and dirt paths to bikepacking adventures in the backcountry. 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 us in-store in Laval or Brossard for advice and to try different models.
