650B Gravel Bikes: The Monster(cross) List

By Team

PUBLISHED Jan 13, 2025

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Originally published Jan 2nd, 2019. Major update: Jan 8th, 2025

Bikepacking bikes come in all shapes and sizes—everything from plus-tire hardtails to svelte gravel race rigs and from full-squish to fully rigid steeds. One of the most prevalent configurations combines drop bars with big tires. The term monstercross came about to define such bikes that filled the gap between cyclocross bikes and a mountain bikes. At their best, they’re do-it-all, quiver-killing rigs capable of handling singletrack and big gravel rides and efficient on pavement as well. The main criteria are big tires for capability on mixed terrain and drop handlebars for the added comfort offered through multiple hand positions. To lay out the options, here’s our comprehensive list of bikes that fall into this category—650B gravel bikes, specifically. If you’re interested in dirt-drop 29ers, check out our 29″ Drop-bar Mountain Bikes Gear Index.

Benchmarks for 650B Gravel Bikes

The standard benchmarks we used to select the 650B gravel bikes listed here are that each bike must fit 27.5″ (650B) tires that are 2.1″ (54mm) or wider and be designed for use with drop bars. There are also a few in the mix that were created to run either 700C or 650B tires. Additionally, we tried to select bikes with the appropriate bottom bracket drop for 650B (close to or less than 70mm), as well as extra bottle mounts and/or rack bosses. Here’s more about the criteria we used to select them:

Complete List of 650b Gravel Bikes

There are a few things to note about our Gear Index list of large tire capable 650B gravel bikes (“gravel plus” or 27.5″ monstercross bikes). The factors that we found particularly important to consider are listed in the highlights (in red). These include the frame and fork material, maximum tire size (to the best of our knowledge), and the hub/dropout width specs. In addition, note the bottom bracket spec. Bottom bracket width is relevant to tire and heel clearance, usually either a 73mm mountain bike standard or 68mm road standard. Plus, we reference whether it’s threaded or PressFit (PF)—an important factor for many. Click each list item to expand the details and see a larger photo. Lists are displayed in alphabetical order, with bikes we’ve tested grouped at top (and represented with a hexagonal “T” icon).

• $3300
  

  3T Primo

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF86
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The 3T Primo is an extremely lightweight carbon frame that’s designed for speed… and off-tarmac exploration. But make no mistake, it’s more of a road bike approach to a gravel bike. With built in proprietary technologies like ‘GravelPlus’, ‘Sqaero’, and ‘RealFast’ permeating its marketing, it’s pretty clear who the target audience is. If you’re interested in rides where you leave your driveway like a bat out of hell in search of gravel, then do twice the miles you’d planned, this might be your bike. Or, if you’re a gravel racer in the market for a fast bike for this type of riding — and the occasional overnight or weekend bikepack — the 3T Primo could be worth considering.

  Highlights

  • The geometry is dialed for responsive pedaling and insanely fast climbing.
  • Unbelievably lightweight. The carbon frame design makes this one of the lightest gravel bikes on the market.
  • The seatpost clamp’s vibration reduction ring does a noticeable job dampening the effects of long days on gravel.
  • Speed. Did I mention how fast this bike feels?

  Drawbacks

  • Toe Overlap, especially with the 700c/45mm tires; I assume this would be less impactful with a 27.5 setup.
  • Standard framebags don’t really fit; both the otherwise universal medium Revelate Tangle didn’t fit and the Oveja Negra Super Wedgie was off due to the odd proportions of the triangle.
  • Can’t fit a King Manything. Even with the three-pack bosses on the down tube my new favorite cage won’t fit.
  • No under down tube or fork mount bosses provided for additional water.
  • The seatpost clamp — although nice for tech — is non-standard and very difficult to adjust.

  • Weight: 8.16 kg (17.99 lbs)
  • Price: $3300 (Rival 1x11)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2000
  

  All-City Gorilla Monsoon

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/steel
  • Max Tire Clearance: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  With 2.4” tires, a 73mm bottom bracket, a bi-plane fork, and a snazzy paint job, the Gorilla Monsoon is a mix of old and new, and much more dirt-friendly than you might expect. Although the geometry is fairly neutral, and not too out of the ordinary, it’s well-conceived and generally suited for riding a variety of terrain. All the while, this bike is a lot of fun. And with a nice blend of classic styling and a modern build features, such as thru-axles, short-ish chainstays, and beefy tires, the Gorilla Monsoon is certainly unique. Check out our full review here, and be sure to find Logan’s complete personal build here.

  Highlights

  • Clearance for massive 2.4″ tires afforded by 73mm bottom bracket shell.
  • Very quick feel considering this bike has 2.4″ tires.
  • Attention to detail with the bi-plane fork, reinforced bottle bosses, and E.D. coating.
  • Plenty of mounts, including three bottle mounts, rack and fender bosses, and a mid-blade fork mount.
  • Bike feels surprisingly confident on descents and technical terrain.
  • Some good components, such as the Cowchipper bars, Riddler tires, and cassette/derailleur.

  Drawbacks

  • Very heavy frame and wheels.
  • FSA crankset direct mount is for the birds.
  • Hayes mechanical disc brakes performed poorly.
  • Other equipment I didn’t like includes the very uncomfortable saddle, long stem, and heavy cockpit components.

  • Weight: 13.15 kg (28.99 lbs)
  • Price: $2000 (Apex Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1500
  

  Bassi Bikes Hog’s Back

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100mm QR / 135mm QR

  See Our Full Review

  The Bassi Bikes Hog’s Back is a steel all-road touring bike designed to be versatile, comfortable, and heavily laden with trusted standards like quick-release skewers and a threaded bottom bracket. The Hog’s Back features a Columbus Cromor steel frame and fork, clearance for 27.5 x 2.2″ or 700 x 45mm tires, three bottle mounts, and rack / fender bosses. Here’s how Bassi Bikes’ owner Julian Gammon describes the Hog’s Back, “The Hog’s Back is designed to be your one bike. I don’t think touring bikes are only for touring. I wanted a bike that’s comfortable in the high Andes on multi-month tours, but also an everyday commuter for life in cities, a grocery getter, a playful urban singletrack bike, a salt-and-slush-worthy winter ride, and more. It has slightly shorter chainstays and a higher bottom bracket than classic touring bikes for a bit more shred! Eyelets everywhere, of course.”

  Highlights

  • Great value for a steel all-road touring bike, and $2,000 CAD complete builds are great to see
  • Versatile geometry allows for an upright riding position, flat bars, drop bars, or a more sporty fit
  • Thoughtful details all over the frame set it apart from the competition: portage strap, kickstand plate, and metal head badge included
  • Reasonable tire clearance for a bike in this category
  • Massive main triangle for half, wedge, or full frame bag
  • Fun paint jobs

  Drawbacks

  • Heavy
  • Only four sizes may be limiting for some people
  • Exposed rear derailleur cable along down tube and under chainstay
  • Upright, touring-focused geometry lacked power on steep climbs

  • Price: $1500 (Wiggler Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2390
  

  Bearclaw Thunderhawk

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF30
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Bearclaw Thunderhawk caught our attention immediately. It’s a performance-minded 650B road plus bike that is well equipped to handle road, gravel, endurance events, and, of course, bikepacking. The double-butted titanium frame has clearance for up to 700 x 46mm (29 x 1.8″) or 650B x 60mm (27.5 x 2.4″) tires, is decked out with three bottle mounts, fender and rack mounts, plus Bearclaw’s own carbon Ramhorn fork that offers massive clearance for large tires and anything cage mounts. From our review: “It’s a very capable bike, and appears to be adaptable to all kinds of different riding preferences and conditions.”

  Highlights

  • Extremely versatile. Comfortable, yet performance-oriented geometry with the ability to run a huge range of wheel / tire sizes.
  • Huge tire clearance, with room for 700x46c all the way up to 27.5×2.4”.
  • Build kits make sense for the bike, and are priced accordingly.
  • High-quality titanium frame with an obvious attention to detail and superb craftsmanship.
  • New carbon fork is fantastic, offers lots of clearance and mounts.
  • Large front triangle easily holds two bottles and a half frame bag, or one gigantic frame bag.

  Drawbacks

  • Front ring too large for bikepacking. I immediately swapped out the 40T chainring for a 32T to match my riding style.
  • Seat tube bottle mount is almost too low for certain bottle cages. My King Cage Bottle Drop Cage didn’t clear the downtube.
  • Thomson Alloy Dirt Drop Bars weren’t that comfortable when tackling long descents.

  • Weight: 9.35 kg (20.61 lbs)
  • Price: $2390 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3399
  

  Bombtrack Hook EXT

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25”
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Introduced in 2017, the Hook EXT was an instant hit thanks to its unique combination of voluminous 27.5 x 2.25” tires and a gravel-centric geometry. Now updated in 2018, the EXT features fully enclosed cable routing, a monocoque carbon fiber fork with mounts for fenders and Anything-style cages, and a new investment cast chainstay yoke that retains the option for a 2x drivetrain. Build highlights include the CX-10 flared handlebar, a 1×11 drivetrain, and hydraulic brakes. From our review: “The Hook EXT has been an absolute blast to ride and after a few months together, I was definitely sorry to return it.”

  Highlights

  • Engaging handling that’s fun unladen or with a light load
  • All the needs of a bikepacker catered for
  • Surpringly capable off road
  • Compliant frame and fork with tyre clearance that’s fit for purpose
  • Good looking finish with real attention to detail
  • Solid, reliable parts including powerful hydraulic brakes

  Drawbacks

  • A little on the pricey side
  • Gearing is too high for hilly bikepacking routes
  • Lowish front end may irk tall and leggy cyclists who like to be more upright

  • Price: $3399
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1400AUD
  

  Curve Kevin of Steel

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Shortly after the release of the titanium GXR, Curve released a steel version of the Grand Xploring Randonneur, aka Kevin of Steel. Kevin features multiple options for tire size and plenty of bikepacking-friendly features, such as rack and fender eyelets, a full-carbon fork with two sets of three-pack mounts, fully external cable housing, and a custom made chainstay yoke to increase tire clearance and stiffness under load. Read our full review here.

  Highlights

  • Incredibly versatile platform
  • Ridiculous real-world testing goes into every Curve product
  • GXR Fork stands out in a crowded marketplace

  Drawbacks

  • Limited availability depending on size
  • Standover clearance may be an issue for smaller riders
  • Bold color schemes aren’t for everyone

  • Price: $1400AUD (Frame/fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £830
  

  Fairlight Faran

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  At the heart of the Faran is a carefully selected and custom-formed Reynolds 631 steel frame with a 4130 headtube that’s built in Taiwan from UK-made tubes. It sports low-mid trail geometry designed to balance unloaded agility and loaded stability, clearance for chunky tires, a spacious main triangle for mounting bags, and provisions for front and rear racks, full fenders, three sets of bottle mounts on the main triangle, four-pack mounts on the fork legs, and front and rear dynamo routing. The Faran’s ovalized top tube is an eye-catcher and is designed to flex under load while remaining laterally stiff. According to Fairlight, the flattened design is structurally superior to a traditional top tube, too.

  Highlights

  • Extremely well thought out and constructed frameset
  • Quick and plush with just the right amount of compliance and responsiveness
  • Dialed geometry for loaded touring and unloaded riding alike
  • Aesthetically pleasing design and paint scheme
  • Well-thought-out set of load carrying provisions

  Drawbacks

  • No internal dropper routing
  • Exposed cable at chainstay is a little too close to larger tires
  • Lack of replaceable derailleur hanger (not a con for everyone)
  • Ideally, there would be a three-pack of mounts on both sides of the downtube

  • Price: £830 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Birmingham, England
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3299
  

  Ibis Hakka MX

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Ibis calls the reengineered Hakka MX their Swiss Army knife, and we think that’s a fitting description of how it fits into not only their lineup, but into any stable of bikes. According to Lucas’ review, it’s equally at home on relaxed road rides, gravel jaunts, and fast singletrack.

  Highlights

  • Incredibly light frame weighs just 1 kg
  • Versatile geometry means it’s well suited to nearly anything
  • Smart updates make the new Hakka a bikepacking contender

  Drawbacks

  • Missing third bottle mount on the downtube
  • Lack of mounts on the fork blades
  • Expensive enough to be out of reach for many

  • Price: $3299 (Apex Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2519
  

  Knolly Cache Ti

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The newly released Knolly Cache Ti looks mighty interesting. Knolly CEO and Head Engineer, Noel Buckley wanted a gravel bike that would deliver a ride experience similar to their mountain bikes. He wanted a bike that could go harder and farther. To differentiate the Cache, Noel custom designed a titanium bike with a longer front center (similar to their mountain bikes), which when combined with a shorter stem gives the bike MTB handling characteristics. With a massive frame triangle and mounts under the downtube, it looks to have some bikepacking-friendly features too.

  Highlights

  • Intuitive and comfortable geometry
  • Carbon adventure fork clears 27.5 x 2.4″ tires
  • Rack mounts, external cable routing, and dropper post routing

  Drawbacks

  • Price is on the high side for Taiwan-made gravel bikes
  • Tire clearance not quite as advertised

  • Price: $2519 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1799
  

  Kona Libre

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.0" / 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Kona Libre is Kona’s latest off-road drop-bar platform. We positioned it as part road bike, part mountain bike, and part gravel grinder. We tested the DL, which is the 700C version, however, we wished for bigger tires. The Libre model is specced with 650B x 47mm Byways, although Kona claims it can fit 2.1″ rubber. With a high stack hight and long reach, the Libre has a rather comfortable stature, yet it excels at many things—climbing, quickness, and a really solid geometry. Consequently, it would make a great commuter that doubles as a gravel bike and weekend bikepacker, or a randonneur that occasionally comes along for gavel group rides/races.

  Highlights

  • Nice geometry that hits a sweet spot between comfort and performance—surprisingly nimble, climbs extremely well, and feels exceptionally fast on gravel and pavement.
  • Tons of mounts, including five pairs of bottle cage mounts.
  • Solid component spec with no significant shortcomings.

  Drawbacks

  • Geared too low for bikepacking out of the box—a 34 or 36T chainring will be a necessary upgrade for most mortals with the 700c/45mm tires.
  • Fork bottle mounts are not spaced correctly for a triple mount cage or bag—the bottom one is spaced a little too low.
  • Somewhat tight tire clearance in the chainstays when running 45mm tires, and 27.5 x 2.1″ from what I can gather.
  • Kona Road Bars are nice and wide, but I’d prefer a little more flare, such as a Cowchipper for this style of bike.

  • Weight: 8.43 kg (18.58 lbs)
  • Price: $1799 (650B)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2700
  

  Norco Search

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF86
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The revamped Norco Search lineup gets the latest ‘all-road’ standards, meaty 27.5 x 2.1” tires, and mounts to carry up to five water bottles. The Norco Search XR Carbon we tested is an expensive bike. However, it’s also a very capable bikepacking rig that might be a good fit for those who can’t avoid some paved riding to escape urban areas on the way to rougher and more remote trails. With multiple wheel size options, various rack and bottle mounts, and clearance for decent-sized 650B tires, it’s also a solid option for endurance bikepacking races that would benefit from a lighter overall package. The Search lineup now includes more affordable aluminum and steel builds, flat bar builds, and a few options with short-travel gravel suspension forks.

  Highlights

  • Not a delicate carbon race bike that needs to be pampered, and can handle some surprisingly rough terrain with ease.
  • Clearance for up to 27.5 x 2.1″ tires, accompanied by thru-axle hubs make a stable and reliable base. Also compatible with 700c tires from 28c up to 45c.
  • Lightweight and ultra comfortable for long days in the saddle over bumpy trails and roads.
  • Multiple bottle and accessory mounts make carrying water and bikepacking gear easy.
  • High-end components and a solid build.
  • Size scaled for smaller riders means geometry is consistent and better proportioned for the rider.

  Drawbacks

  • PF86 Press-fit bottom brackets will likely be a gripe for many people interested in this bike, but we had no problems.
  • 3 bolt anything cage mount in the main triangle is of little use due to the small triangle, would have been nice to see those on the downtube.
  • Gearing might be a little high for some loaded up for bikepacking, so a chainring swap or cassette expander may be needed.
  • Dropper post is slightly awkward to use with the longer, stock stem.
  • Not cheap. Although I do think you get what you pay for, and that includes a drop-bar bike capable of taking on most types of terrain right out of the box. Check out the aluminum or steel models for cheaper alternatives.
  • A bit sluggish on pavement without pumping up to a higher pressure, as expected for 650b x 2.1” tires.

  • Weight: 9.53 kg (21 lbs)
  • Price: $2700 (XR S2 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3200
  

  OPEN WI.DE.

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: BB386 EVO pressfit
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm Thru-axle

  See Our Full Review

  The OPEN WI.DE. (Winding Detours) offers clearance for tires up to 27.5 x 2.4″, nimble geometry, and features not one, but two dropped chainstays. Its frame is designed around 650B gravel or mountain bike tires up to 2.4″ wide and can also run 700c x 46mm rubber. OPEN claims dropping both chainstays not only offer up more tire clearance but also improves bottom bracket stiffness and reduces overall weight. A dropped drive-side chainstay is a familiar sight in the gravel bike world, which OPEN surely takes some credit for, but dropping both down is certainly something far less expected.

  Highlights

  • Super quick handling very familiar from road bikes.
  • Buildable into a lightweight rocketship.
  • Refined and optimized construction from designers who have been creating top carbon bikes for over a decade.
  • Clearance for full on mountain bike tires for the roughest dirt and gravel roads; can go a long way beyond most gravel bikes on singletrack.
  • Very capable for a fast road ride or a road race with 700c wheels if you like quick handling.
  • A variety of bosses for cages, a gas tank bag, and a tool case under the bottom bracket.

  Drawbacks

  • If the WI.DE.’s sweet spot is not your primary riding niche, you probably don’t need this bike.
  • Notable wheel flop with 700c x 38mm tires.

  • Price: $3200 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2700
  

  Otso Waheela C

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1" / 29 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100x12mm / 142x12mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Waheela C has a full EPS molded carbon frame designed around a 420mm axle-to-crown fork (suspension corrected for gravel suspension forks). The bike is made primarily for long, 100+ mile gravel races and rides. The frame features sleeved internal brake and shifter routing, a carbon access door under the bottom bracket, front and rear thru-axles, and a 68mm threaded bottom bracket. In addition, Otso designed it around bowed seat stays for vertical compliance and added comfort. The Waheela is 1x and 2x compatible and works with with both Shimano Di2 and SRAM eTap AXS electronic drivetrains. Additionally, the Waheela C is compatible with 30.9mm internally routed dropper seat posts.

  Highlights

  • Thoughtfully tuned frame design provides stable and supple ride
  • Excellent adaptability for dialing in the ride with the Tuning Chip
  • Loads of mounting options and decent size frame triangle
  • Black and Tan colorway is easy on the eyes

  Drawbacks

  • Front end isn’t quite as plush as the perfectly compliant rear end
  • No mounts on the fork for a small platform rack
  • Odd cable routing for the front brake that goes behind the head tube

  • Price: $2700 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £840
  

  Pipedream Cycles A.L.I.C.E.

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.4" / 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Bonny Scotland-based Pipedream Cycles’ A.L.I.C.E. is an ‘All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment’ bike which they claim to be designed for gravel-grinding, bikepacking, and epic trans-continental adventure.

  The Pipedream A.L.I.C.E. frame features a custom, triple-butted, heat treated 4130 CrMo tubeset with details such as a subtle S-bend seat and chain stays, sliding 142mm bolt-through dropouts, a horizontally ovalized top tube for vertical compliance, and an oversize head tube for front end stiffness. The frame also has plenty of braze-ons for bottles, guards, and racks.

  A.L.I.C.E. has a super high BB (55mm drop), so it should work fine with smaller 650B tires as well.

  Highlights

  • Massive tire clearance
  • MTB-focused geometry
  • Adjustable and split dropouts
  • Quick and lively ride quality (in the forward position)
  • Loads of mounts and plenty of front triangle space

  Drawbacks

  • Some odd frame specs (post mount rear, 100×15 front)
  • Sluggish in the long position
  • No top tube mounts
  • High trail takes some adjustment on a drop-bar bike

  • Price: £840 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2799
  

  Revel R+

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  In 2016, Colorado-based Revel Bikes (previously Why Cycles) released the R+ as titanium drop-bar adventure bike that aimed to extend the limits of what a drop bar bike can do. Now in its third iteration, the R+ claims to be “everything you could ever want for a long ride.” The R+ features a beautiful titanium frame with a 31.6mm seatpost, lots of internal cable routing, and tons of mounts (more added in 2018). If you haven’t seen it already, Anthony Pease reviewed the original R+ back in 2017.

  Highlights

  • It’s super lightweight, fast on the road and gravel, and holds its own on the rough stuff.
  • Multiple cage mounts, rack mounts and provision for mudguards.
  • Being able to run up to 700×44 tyres or even 27.5×2.1 helps this bike attack anything that you throw at it.
  • It’s comfortable. Any chances of a harsh ride are all but erased between the large volume tyres, Enve fork, Lizard Skins padded bar tape and well thought frame geometry.
  • The attention to detail is amazing, clean cable routing, provision for a dropper post and the etching on the frame helps the R+ stand out.
  • Multiple build kits including the optional Lauf fork. It is also sold as a frame/fork in case you’d like to build your own dream bike.
  • It’s delivered to you in an Evoc Pro bike bag; surely a help when you plan your overseas adventures.

  Drawbacks

  • The 42×11-36 1×11 drivetrain may hinder some when tackling steep climbs, or when the legs are tiring after a long day in the saddle.
  • The carbon seatpost might be an issue if you use seat clamp mounted packs and can scuff easily unless protected.
  • No bottle bosses on the Enve carbon fork.
  • Flared chainstays may be an issue for some with large shoe sizes.
  • Maxxis Ramblers felt a little puny.

  • Price: $2799 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2675
  

  Ritte Satyr

  • Frame/Fork: Steel (or Ti)/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.2 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Earnings its name from the forest creature from Greek and Roman mythology, Ritte says the new Satyr is the “embodiment of fun and rowdiness,” and adds, “…the Satyr was a man built atop the legs of a goat. And climb like a goat the new Satyr does.” The Satyr is a flashy steel gravel bike with Reynolds tubing and an ENVE carbon fork, 700x43mm / 27.5 x 2.2″ tire clearance, triple cage mounts, and a T47 bottom bracket, just to name a few of its features that will likely appeal to bikepackers, especially those looking to go fast and light on a variety of rugged roads.

  Highlights

  • Designed by a prolific builder, Tom Kellogg
  • Uses top-end Reynolds 725 tubing
  • Nicely color-matched frame and fork

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Limited Availability
  • Geometry is more race-oriented
  • Lacking rack mounts

  • Price: $2675 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1699
  

  Rocky Mountain Solo

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy (or Carbon)/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: BB386 PressFit
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The Solo is Rocky Mountain’s only drop-bar bike, sitting within their off-road focused mountain bike range. Although it’s a bit of an outlier in their lineup, it naturally fills the gap between a skinny-tired road bike and knobby-tired MTB, which seems fitting for a brand like Rocky Mountain. We spent some time on the 2019 Rocky Mountain Solo and found it to be fast and stable on gravel, and it offered lots of value for anyone on the hunt for a capable all-road drop-bar bike. The latest lineup includes carbon and alloy builds, and several different complete build levels/price points.

  Highlights

  • Modern features like thru-axles, big tire clearance, and various mounts.
  • Fast and stable on gravel, dirt, and pavement.
  • Lower price point than some carbon and steel options.
  • Versatile build kit that will make any type of road very fun.

  Drawbacks

  • Aluminum frame isn’t the most comfortable, and is best suited for long day rides and lightweight overnighters.
  • A few component swaps may be in order, including the alloy bars, tape, dropper post lever position, and tires.
  • Some of the threaded bosses could be tweaked to be more effective, fingers crossed for 2020.
  • Stock WTB Byway tires showing damage / signs of wear after a few months of riding.
  • Stock SRAM rear hub may not have greatest track record when it comes to reliability.

  • Price: $1699 (Alloy 30)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $6000
  

  Sage Storm King

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Sage Bicycles is a semi-custom, titanium bike company based in Beaverton, Oregon. The Storm King is their latest made-in-the-USA drop-bar rig, which is named after a singletrack trail just west of Bend, Oregon. Sage claims the Storm King has a different ride feel than their Barlow gravel bike “through a geometry best-suited for buff singletrack and rocky fire roads.” The Storm King features clearance for 700C x 50mm or 650 x 2.4″ tires and four pairs of bottle mounts. There are several different purchasing options for the Storm King, including a frame only or frameset, starting at $6,000. Complete builds with options for complete customization are also available.

  Highlights

  • Clearance for big tires up to 650B x 2.4”
  • Custom builds available
  • Ample mounts for water bottles, racks, and optional fork mounts with the ENVE Adventure Fork
  • All of the weight-to-strength benefits you’d expect of a titanium bike

  Drawbacks

  • Sage decals began peeling after only a few rides
  • High price tag if you’re “competition curious”; I imagine only serious endurance racers who like to tour occasionally will buy this bike

  • Price: $6000 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Oregon, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2599
  

  Salsa Fargo

  • Frame/fork: Steel or Ti/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 3.0" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110 x 15mm / 12 x 148mm

  The Salsa Fargo is the bike that started it all. Built for long rides like the Tour Divide, it’s a dirt-drop 29er at heart. Since then, Salsa has refined it to be a versatile machine. 29 x 3.0″ (or 27.5+ tires) are its sweet spot, although with a 70mm BB drop, it can run just about anything. While we haven’t reviewed the Fargo directly, we spent plenty of time on the old 29+ Deadwood, which is essentially the same bike with a color and graphics change. Find details about Gin’s 29 x 2.6″ Deadwood set up.

  The Fargo frameset is also available in a titanium version, for those on the hunt for a space metal dream bike. Check it out here.

  Highlights

  • Comfortable, upright geometry that’s perfect for multi-day dirt touring and bikepacking
  • Lots of mounting points for cages, racks, and more
  • Offers reasonable value for the price
  • Available in both titanium and steel
  • Generous tire clearance

  Drawbacks

  • Somewhat basic stock build kit and no dropper post
  • Low standover means minimal frame bag space on smaller sizes
  • Mechanical disc brakes on stock build

  • Price: $2599 (Apex 1 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $999
  

  Salsa Journeyer

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  See Our Full Review

  Priced from $999 to $2,799, depending on the model, the Journeyer rounds out Salsa’s multi-platform, all-road lineup, landing on the entry-level end. It seems as if the Journeyer is designed for gravel-curious riders who aren’t quite ready to pony up $3,000 or more for a race-ready Warbird, but are looking for a feature-rich, versatile bike. However, we rode the Journeyer on a rugged bikepacking route in Montana and were quite impressed by its capability. We even gave it an award in our 2019 Gear of the Year.

  Built around an aluminum alloy frame and either a 1×11 Apex 1, 2×9 Shimano Sora, or 2×8 Claris drivetrain, the Salsa Journeyman comes with 650b or 700c tires, drop or flat bars, and either a carbon or alloy fork. All told, there are 16 models. Be sure to check out our detailed review here.

  Highlights

  • Frame and fork are well designed and offer a great bang for the buck
  • Frame geometry suited for a blend of exploration and fun
  • Loads of mounting options
  • 650B x 2.1″ tires offer a wide range of capability
  • Cowbell handlebars and cockpit components are solid
  • Apex 1 drivetrain isn’t too bad, but definitely not great

  Drawbacks

  • Gearing is too high; a crankset that could fit a smaller chainring or 11-46T cassette would be better
  • Thru-axles are commonplace these days and QR skewers feel like an unnecessary step backward
  • Non-tubeless compatible tires come standard on all model
  • If I’m splitting hairs, I’d prefer 27mm internal width rims and a Cowchipper handlebar

  • Price: $999 (Advent Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3299
  

  Salsa Warbird 650

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1" (650B x 54mm)*
  • Bottom Bracket: BB86 PressFit
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  The new Warbird v4 frame has a ton of updated tweaks and changes, including more mounts, tire clearance, and other bikepacking friendly features. The Warbird comes in six complete build options, all built up with 700c wheels (although it plays nicely with 650b x 2.1″), options for 1x and 2x drivetrains, and complete builds starting at $3,299.

  Highlights

  • Salsa made numerous improvements to Warbird v4 with added tire clearance, triple fork mounts, and more bottle bosses
  • A longer stance and slacker headtube angle provides added stability and comfort compared to v3
  • Similar to the Cutthroat, the vibration reduction stays keep the Warbird is quite supple, yet still fairly responsive
  • Lots of nice bells and whistles, such as internal routing, rack and fender mounts, and added sizes

  Drawbacks

  • Paint/finish seems a little fragile (finish rubbed off from bag straps pretty easily, over five days–this could be avoided using Shelter tape)
  • Some people might be bummed that the Warbird lost its ‘roadish’ quickness from v3 to v4. However, now there’s now a Warroad!
  • A little speed wobble on high speed paved descents (it could use a ViscoSet)

  • Price: $3299 (GRX 1x Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1399
  

  Sklar Super Something

  • Frame/Fork: Steel (or Ti)/Steel
  • Max Tire Clearance: 29 x 2.2" 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 X 100MM / 12 X 142MM

  See Our Full Review

  The Sklar Super Something is Adam’s first production bike. The frame and fork are designed by Adam but manufactured in Taiwan by Maxway Cycles—the same folks who make Surly, All-City, Salsa, and others. Designed from the ground up, the Super Something is made from size-specific, double-butted, air-hardened 4130 Chromoly steel tubing with custom-forged dropouts and machined head tubes. At first glance, it has that unmistakable Sklar silhouette, including a generously curved top tube, classic lines, and a clean aesthetic. “Keep it simple” are the first three words Adam uses to describe the Super Something’s design philosophy, and it seems he achieved this. It’s also offered in a titanium version for those seeking that unique space metal ride quality.

  Dig into Miles’ review here.

  Pros

  • Versatile geometry hits a sweet spot for everyday rides, bikepacking, and all-terrain touring
  • Designed by a talented custom frame builder and inspired by much more expensive bikes
  • Clearance for 29 x 2.2” tires, rack mounts, sliding dropouts, and a steel fork check a lot of boxes we like to see
  • Get a Sklar without waiting two years
  • Big main triangle for bottles and bags

  Cons

  • On the expensive side for a double-butted steel gravel bike
  • Not as smooth-riding as other production gravel bikes with higher-end tubing
  • Some folks might miss triple pack mounts on the fork legs
  • No internal dropper post routing

  • Price: $1399 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $899
  

  State 4130 All-Road

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  At the heart of the State 4130 All-Road is a 4130 Chromoly Steel frame and fork. It’s kitted out with rack and fender mounts, two standard bottle cage mounts inside the main triangle, and not three but four bosses and fork crown bosses on each leg, opening up endless options for cargo cages, front racks, and more. State gives you a choice between 700c wheels with 38mm tires or 650b with 2.1” tires for the same price, or you can buy two complete wheelsets to swap between the two easily. The All-Road model is also available in carbon, titanium, aluminum, and in flat or drop-bar setups. Find our review of the 4130 All-Road here.

  Highlights

  • Sub-$1,000 bikes are a step in the right direction
  • Chromoly Steel frame and fork make for a solid platform
  • Two wheel options and decent tire clearance
  • All of the mounts and ample room for a frame bag

  Drawbacks

  • Budget components won’t hold up to serious riding
  • Heavy
  • Marketing claims seem lofty
  • Hard gearing for off-road riding/steep climbs

  • Price: $899 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1899
  

  Surly Grappler

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.1" / 27.5 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 110 X 15MM / 12 X 148MM

  See Our Full Review

  The Grappler is a uniquely long, rigid-specific drop-bar bike specced with beefy 27.5” tires. It has a Surly Natch chromoly steel frame, of course, which is built around Boost-spaced 148 and 110mm wheels. It has an internally routed dropper post, all the bottle and rack mounts one might expect from Surly, and two additional pairs you might not. The Grappler has a new adjustable dropout that can be set up single speed or with an internally geared hub. It’s made for dirt touring, getting rowdy on singletrack (drop-bar style), and pretty much any other kind of riding that you can dream up in between those two disciplines. It’s an oddity that’s unlike any other bike we’ve ridden, and one that has Surly’s name all over it.

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  Highlights

  • Unique mix of stability, maneuverability, and comfortable long-ride geometry
  • LOOONNNGG front end provides options for flat bars or a better fit if you’re between sizes
  • Large frame bag space and plenty of mounts and provisions
  • Unique implementation of rear bottle mounts, handy for desert routes
  • Good value, considering today’s market

  Drawbacks

  • It’s not light, although it’s not too heavy
  • I found that the high BB makes it feel a little timid on steep, gnarly terrain
  • I wish they offered it with flat bars and stock 29er wheels and tires

  • Price: $1899 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1080
  

  Tanglefoot Hardtack

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.2" / 27.5 x 2.6"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100X12MM / 142×12MM

  See Our Full Review

  The Hardtack has a very similar intent and geometry to the brand’s Moonshiner. The difference between the two is that the Hardtack is a more stripped down and simplified bike featuring a lighter tubeset that’s optimized for gravel/doubletrack/light singletrack duty, whereas the Moonshiner is a little burlier and meant to tackle the rowdiest of exploits. Also, the Hardtack has clearance for 27.5 x 2.6″ tires in comparison to the Moonshiner, which clears beefier 3.0″ tires. As for geometry, the two have some slightly different numbers, but they aren’t too dissimilar. The Tanglefoot Hardtack has a similarly long front-end, slack seat tube, off-road-friendly high bottom bracket, and high trail fork. The Hardtack also gets a straight top tube and a slimmed-down fork. However, it carries over a lot of great features such as rack and fender mounts, and plenty of accessory mounts on the frame and fork. It also has 12mm thru-axles front and rear.

  Highlights

  • Versatile ATB, great on dirt roads and light trail duty alike
  • Excellent for bikepacking with lots of room for a front roll or bag
  • Confident and nimble East Coast USA handling

  Drawbacks

  • Geometry, stack, stem length, and drop bar all work together, so it is inadvisable to stray too far with parts changes
  • Better at lower speeds in the woods rather than flat out at high speeds

  • Price: $1080 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1400
  

  Tanglefoot Moonshiner

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.6" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 110 X 15MM / 12 X 148MM

  See Our Full Review

  The Tanglefoot Moonshiner is a steel bike with clearance for 27.5 x 3.0” (or 29 x 2.6″) tires on 35mm rims. It has a 69-degree head tube angle, a slack 71-degree seat tube angle, and a high bottom bracket (51mm of drop). All those numbers are preserved across the three sizes. It’s intended to be built up with a high-stack, 0mm or 30mm stem for riding in the hooks basically all of the time. The trail is also high at 88.7mm in all sizes. The top tube bend provides ample standover height.

  From Tanglefoot: “What is a Moonshiner? A rowdy sniggle shred sled? A diggle whip designed to dominate rocky roads? A ride-camp-ride mule-foot machine? Yes.”

  Highlights

  • Supremely capable all-terrain bicycle, one of the best riding bikes I’ve ever been on
  • Incredibly comfortable
  • Versatile attachments for any kind of riding
  • Excellent for bikepacking with lots of room for a front roll or bag
  • Refined details

  Drawbacks

  • Heavy, especially the fork (but it rides far lighter than the number on the scale would suggest)
  • Divisive looks?

  • Price: $1400 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1985
  

  Temple Adventure Disc

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135 QR

  The Temple Adventure disc is designed around 700C x 35mm tires, but will accommodate 650B x 2.1″ rubber, according to readers and their internal team. The Temple Adventure disc features handbuilt Hunt 4 Season Gravel Disc Wheels, a Reynolds 725 steel frame, a glossy powder-coat finish with internal e-coat protection, TRP Spyre Disc Brakes, a Brooks B17 saddle, and Shimano 105 gearing.

  While we normally wouldn’t include a complete-only bike with 700c wheels in this list, it came recommended from a couple different people, and we thought it was a worthy inclusion.

  Highlights

  • Timeless aesthetic and clean styling
  • Rack, fender, and multiple bottle mounts
  • Complete builds and framesets available

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey for Taiwan-made frame
  • Relatively limited tire clearance

  • Weight: 11 kg (24.25 lbs)
  • Price: £1985 (Adventure Disc 3)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $925
  

  Velo Orange Piolet

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.4" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 X 142 / 12 X 100MM

  See Our Full Review

  The Velo Orange Piolet is designed for either drops or flat bars. From our review by Lee Vilinsky: “Velo Orange’s Piolet is truly a modern classic: though 26” wheels and rim brakes still win for being the most widely available component choices, the benefits of larger wheels and discs are an overwhelming advantage. With more of a touring-oriented geometry, the Piolet is a fantastic interpretation of what a rough stuff touring bike should be. The frame handles bikepacking loads quite well and it should also take a classic 4-pannier, loaded-to-the-gills setup without issue. Even unloaded the frame handles great and feels agile, though its touring geometry means a bit more effort is required when navigating more technical singletrack. Velo Orange obviously did their homework in designing this classy machine which will certainly stand out from the rest of the herd. Given the opportunity to do another round-the-world journey by bike, there is no question that this is the one I would take.” Also, be sure to check out Pao’s Piolet (shown here).

  Highlights

  • Thick paint and double-butted steel are made to take abuse
  • Choice of 29” or 27.5”+ wheels give you options
  • Comfortable, all-day geometry
  • Braze ons, braze ons, braze ons!

  Drawbacks

  • Low stack height and drop bar accommodation makes sizing unconventional
  • Steel is quite hefty; a lightweight build would be fairly difficult
  • Not as agile on technical singletrack, though most buyers wouldn’t necessarily use it for this purpose

  • Price: $925 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $925
  

  Velo Orange Polyvalent

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 26 x 2.3" (w/fenders) / 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  As its name suggests—French for “many forms”—Velo Orange positions the Polyvalent as a do-it-all frameset: porteur, randonneur, tourer, or mixed terrain racer. The Polyvalent’s low trail geometry is suited to a front load, so that it holds a line well both loaded and unloaded. The newest iteration of the Polyvalent takes disc brakes with increased tire clearances. Throw on 650b tires for general use or some knobby 26” tires for a gravel adventure. The Polyvalent is loaded with water bottle mounts: triple on top of downtube, one set on seattube, one set on underside of downtube, and a triple on each fork blade. It also has fender mounts and double eyelets on rear dropouts for racks and fenders.

  Highlights

  • Low kicker (step thru) and standard version
  • Timeless aesthetic
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Comfortable, upright geometry
  • Adaptable

  Drawbacks

  • Limited 27.5″ tire clearance
  • Exposed cable routing on downtube
  • No dropper post routing
  • A little pricey for a Taiwan-made frame

  • Price: $925 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2500
  

  44 Bikes Huntsman

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.3" / 27.5 x 2.6"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm
  • Dropouts (F/R): QR or Thru

  44 Bikes is a small, New Hampshire-based, custom shop run by framebuilder Kristofer Henry. One of the company’s ready-platforms is tha Huntsman, a drop-bar gravel frame suited to all types of terrain. Kris developed the Huntsman “Super Trail” when a client requested a Huntsman with room for 29 x 2.3″ tires. Now he builds them around both 650B (shown here) or 29″, depending on your wishes. All frames start at $2,000 and there are a wealth of options. The most standard set of options are a 44mm head tube, PMW’s Wright dropouts (QR or 12mm TA), two pairs of bottle mounts, internal rear brake routing along the top tube and traditional down tube routing for front and rear derailleurs. Based on tire clearance, utility, and looks, this one’s on our wish list, for sure.

  Highlights

  • Fully customizable and made to measure
  • Handmade in the USA
  • Generous tire clearance

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Longer wait times for custom builds
  • Customizations come at a cost

  • Price: $2500 (Frame)
  • Place of Manufacture: New Hampshire, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €630
  

  8bar TFLSBERG

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.25" / 27.5 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 12 X 100MM / 12 X 142MM

  The 8bar TFLSBERG is designed to carry a lot of stuff and perform well on long days in the saddle. It features a reinforced steel frame and aluminum fork with a geometry that’s more relaxed in contrast to 8bar’s MITTE gravel bike. The TFLSBERG has a lot of mounting options, including five bottle cages on the frame (two in the triangle and three under the downtube) and four three-pack Anything Cage mounts on the fork and seat stays.

  Highlights

  • Loads of mounting points for cargo and water
  • SRAM UDH compatible
  • Relaxed geometry and riding position for long rides
  • Competitively priced

  Drawbacks

  • Four sizes could be limiting for some
  • Pricey shipping outside of Germany/EU

  • Price: €630 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1750
  

  Albannach TORRAGAR

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5" x 2.125"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF30
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 X 100mm / 12 X 142mm

  Albannach is a custom titanium frame company based in Scotland. Their headline model is the TORRAGAR, a “staunch and versatile radge randonneur frame, developed specifically for ultra-endurance racing and rough ‘road’ touring.”

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Scotland
  • Customized for each customer with add-ons available
  • 27.5 x 2.125″ tire clearance
  • Lots of clever details

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey
  • Long wait times as each frame is made-to-order

  • Price: £1750 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Scotland
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1145
  

  Black Mountain Cycles Mod Zero

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  In short, the Mod Zero is replacing their MCD and Road+ frames to satisfy new minimum order numbers and is named after the Modelo beer cans that Mike Varley, the owner of Black Mountain Cycles, sees riding around West Marin, California. The Mod Zero is the bike Mike would design if he was just starting out.

  It’s built up around a double-butted chromoly steel frame and matching fork. It has clearance for 700 x 50mm or 27.5 x 2.25″ tires, flat mount brakes front and rear, a straight head tube, and a 68mm threaded bottom bracket. The frame is designed around road or gravel cranksets and plays nicely with 1x setups. It runs a 27.2mm seatpost, has dropper post routing, and has non-boost thru-axles. There are loads of mounts all over, including three bottle mounts inside the main triangle, triple pack mounts under the downtube, triple pack fork mounts, and rack and fender mounts.

  Highlights

  • Plenty of mounts for cages and racks
  • Reasonable tire clearance
  • Dropper post routing and external cables
  • Classic styling

  Drawbacks

  • Slightly more expensive than big batch steel bikes

  • Price: $1145 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $4000
  

  Bombtrack EXT-C

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2”
  • Bottom Bracket: PF30
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Hook series originated as a CX line. In 2017, Bombtrack took the Hook EXT a step further and it proved successful with riders looking for bigger tires in a gravel bike package. The Hook EXT-C builds on the success of the original but in a full carbon fiber format. The bike was designed around a sophisticated chainstay to allow for larger tires and a shorter rear end for more agile handling. For carrying duties, the EXT-C includes bottle mounts under the downtube as well as a set of triple-mounts on each fork blade. Check out our first ride impressions here.

  Highlights

  • Lightweight carbon frame and fork
  • Quick steering and lively ride quality
  • Multiple bottle mounts and three-pack mounts on fork legs

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Slightly sporty geo might not be ideal for everyone

  Photo courtesy of Joachim Rosenlund.

  • Price: $4000
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3595
  

  Breadwinner Cycles G-Road

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The G-Road is designed around 27.5×2.1″ tires, or, more specifically, the 54mm Schwalbe G-One tires, as shown. As Breadwinner puts it, “Can you ride gravel roads on any bike? Absolutely. We tip our hats to those who can do it well on 25c tires too. Would said terrain be more fun, could you ride longer, could you go faster etc, if you had the right tool for the job. Also a resounding yes!” We agree. And with triple fork mounts, three pairs of frame bosses, and plenty of rack and fender mounts, it looks like a great bike for bikepacking and touring, too. Read the full release and spec of the G-Road here.

  Highlights

  • Made-to-order with custom geo and more
  • Custom builds and paint available
  • Matching segmented fork
  • Three standard bottle mounts and three-pack fork mounts

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • 8-12 week wait times

  • Price: $3595 (Frameset (with Stainless dropouts))
  • Place of Manufacture: Oregon, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1599
  

  Breezer Doppler

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2" / 700 x 40mm
  • Bottom Bracket: BSA Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Breezer Doppler Team+ and Doppler Pro are both designed around a chromoly steel frames and fork, multiple mounts for racks and bottles, and come outfitted with full-coverage fenders. The Doppler Team+ model also has a dynamo hub and Bush & Muller headlight—making it ideal for both commuting and mixed-surface bikepacking. With fenders removed, the Doppler has clearance for up to 650b x 2.2″ tires, but comes stock with 650b x 47mm WTB Horizons. The Team+ retails for $1,599 USD, while the Doppler Pro retails for $1,399 USD. If flat bars are your thing, check out the Doppler Cafe+ ($1,199).

  Highlights

  • Competitively priced complete builds
  • Fenders and dynamo setup are nice touches
  • Threaded bb, steel frame, and 27.5 x 2.2″ tire clearance

  Drawbacks

  • Affordable price means affordable parts
  • Stock WTB Horizon tires are great for the road, but not much else

  • Price: $1599 (Team+ Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2799CAD
  

  Brodie Romax

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: TBD
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Brodie Romax lineup is available in 7 different models in carbon, aluminum, titanium, and steel frames. The Romax Carbon officially clears 27.5 x 2.1″ tires, and is available in a 650b 2x build as well as two 700c builds and as a frameset. Each model is specced with a carbon fork, complete with triple pack mounts, 12mm thru axles, and clearance for 650B x 2.1″ or 700 x 42 with fenders.

  Find our original press release on the 2020 Brodie Romax lineup here.

  Highlights

  • Several builds/configurations to pick from
  • Carbon, titanium, steel, and aluminum frame options
  • Plenty of mounting points for cages and gear

  Drawbacks

  • Somewhat pricey
  • Lineup is confusing to navigate

  • Price: $2799CAD (Adventure 1.0 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1099
  

  Brother Cycles Mehteh

  • Frame/Fork: Reynolds 725 steel / carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm English threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Mehteh, a bike that according to Brother, “perfectly straddles the divide between a mountain and all-road bike.” The personality of the Mehteh is reflected in its name—a Himalayan word for the mountain dwelling Yeti which translates to man beast. It is based around a Reynolds 725 steel frame, matching carbon fork, and clearance for 650b x 2.2″ or 700c x 50mm tires. It has three bottle mounts, triple pack mounts on the fork legs, stealth dropper post routing, and the fork has dynamo routing and flip chip dropout to adjust the fork rake.

  Highlights

  • Several bosses and mounting points, including rack mounts
  • Stealth dropper post routing
  • Threaded bottom bracket, replaceable derailleur hanger, and flip-chip front dropout
  • Six frame sizes to choose from
  • Reasonable pricing

  Drawbacks

  • Lots of dealers in the EU, but only two in the USA

  • Price: £1099 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2710
  

  Chiru Alpin

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 X 142MM

  The Chiru Alpin is based around a titanium frame, rigid titanium fork with a long 430mm axle-to-crown that allows it be to swapped out for a 50mm gravel suspension fork, and dropper post compatibility. It can accommodate 1x and 2x gravel drivetrains, 700 x 55mm or 650b x 2.2″ tires, racks, fenders, and uses a SRAM UDH derailleur hanger. The frame has top tube bosses for bolt-on bags, four standard bottle mounts including under the downtube, and the optional titanium fork has three-pack mounts for cargo cages and other accessories.

  Highlights

  • Multiple bottle mounts, top tube bosses, and fork mounts
  • Main triangle optimized for frame bag space
  • 1x and 2x drivetrain compatible
  • Plays nicely with 50mm short travel forks
  • Internal rear dynamo routing

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive, but is packed with nice features
  • Only three frame sizes

  • Price: €2710 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2585
  

  Chiru Vagus

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 X 142MM

  From Chiru: Designed for long days in the saddle, the Vagus has a compliance-oriented design and slightly more upright position to increase comfort and reduce fatigue. A full complement of bottle and luggage bosses on the frame and fork make it that much easier to carry everything that you might need. The long front center and relaxed head tube angle help to keep the bike stable and confident on- and off-road, loaded or unencumbered.

  With internal routing for mechanical or electronic drivetrains as well as stealth dropper posts, the Vagus can be tailored to your needs, preferences, and goals. The future-proof T47 threaded bottom bracket is joined by 12x100mm and 12x142mm thru axles, and flat-mount brake bosses front and rear. Designed with versatility in mind, the Vagus can accommodate 700c tires up to 43mm wide and 650B/27.5″ tires up to 2.4″ wide.

  Highlights

  • Loads of mounts and bosses
  • Internal rear dynamo light routing
  • Threaded bottom bracket and one-piece CNC machined rear dropouts

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey for a Taiwan-made titanium frame

  • Price: €2585 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2200
  

  Chumba Terlingua

  • Frame: Titanium or Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  CHUMBA’s Terlingua is a made in the USA frame featuring titanium or steel tubing, sliding rear dropouts, clearance for 700c x 50mm tires, and plenty of mounts. Based on the steel model, the Ti Terlingua has a reduced frame weight—shaving 310 grams of the steel model.

  CHUMBA designers chose tubing for comfort from the seatstay through the top tube junction, and strong tubing for the seat tube, down tube, and chainstays, creating a bike that they say, “accelerates fast, but can still track through rough terrain.” Other features include covert Di2 integration, sliding Paragon Machine Works dropout inserts, voluminous tire clearance (up to 700x50c), and generous chainring clearances for 1x and 2x drivetrains. View our release write up here.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Texas
  • Choice of titanium or steel tubing
  • Frame/geo customizations and add-ons available
  • S-bend stays, stainless braze-ons, and other nice details

  Drawbacks

  • Longer wait times due to made-to-order frames
  • Add-ons cost extra
  • Expensive

  • Price: $2200 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Texas, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1125
  

  Crust Bombara

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.3"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Crust Bombara is designed around 27.5 x 2.3″ tires and spaced for a road crankset. While Crust doesn’t put much out there about who this bike is made for, it looks to us like an Evasion light, a light touring, gravel bikepacking bike that can handle about anything. It’s loaded with mounts and has a nice graphics scheme as well. We hope to test one soon.

  Highlights

  • Clearance for big 27.5 x 2.3″ tires
  • 1x and 2x drivetrain compatible
  • External cable routing with fixed guides
  • Beautiful lugged fork included with frame

  Drawbacks

  • No dropper post routing
  • Pricey, but justifiable for some

  • Price: $1125 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1175
  

  Crust Evasion

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.8" or 26 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 148mm (or 135mm QR)

  The Crust Evasion is designed around 26+ (up to 26 x 3″) tires on 45mm rims, but it’s just as happy on a 650B tire (27.5″) up to x 2.8″ wide. This bike is designed for dirt touring and bikepacking and touted as “comfortable for the long haul but fast and nimble while still being ready for some pretty technical/rough riding.” It’s got plenty of rack mounts and bottle bosses, and rocker-style dropouts to either run a 148mm thru-axle rear or 135mm QR, single speed or Rolloff. The bi-plane front fork features a 100mm x 12mm thru axle.

  Highlights

  • Massive tire clearance, right up to 27.5 x 2.8″
  • Versatile geometry and specs accommodate a wide range of builds
  • Six frame sizes and small step-thru option
  • Threaded BB, rocker dropouts, and dropper post routing

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, but unique
  • No three-pack mounts on fork legs or additional mounts on top tube/main triangle for bolt-on bags

  • Price: $1175 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1250
  

  Crust Nor’Easter

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Clearance: 26″ X 2.8 (52/55) / 27.5 x 2.8" (58/62)
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm English threaded
  • dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Nor Easter is the love child of the Evasion and Romanceür. According to Crust, “It is a bike you might want to take on the Tour Divide or just use it to ride to work or the local shops.” Here are the specs. Also find a detailed Q and A and a lot of photos here.

  Highlights

  • Big, 27.5 x 2.8″, tire clearance
  • Beautiful matching fork
  • Massive main triangle

  Drawbacks

  • 1″ threaded steerer won’t be for everyone
  • Pricey
  • No three-pack mounts on fork legs

  • Price: $1250 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1475
  

  Crust Romanceur

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm English threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135m QR

  As described on CrustBikes.com, “The ROMANCEÜR is a swashbuckling tender heart of a fantasy warrior, who not only seduces its rider, but acts as a psychedelic aphrodisiac on the psyche. Together, you become thee Romanceür, a sacred, lustful partnership rendering all riding surfaces swooned out and speechless, pining for an intimate evening including a tray of rosé Jell-O shots.” Read more, and a QA with its namesake here.

  Highlights

  • Available in both disc and rim brake versions
  • Six frame sizes
  • Huge main triangle

  Drawbacks

  • 1″ threaded steerer won’t be for everyone
  • Missing three-pack fork mounts
  • Pricey

  • Price: $1475 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2934
  

  Curve GXR4 (AKA Kevin)

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 85.5mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  Melbourne, Australia-based Curve Cycles insists that its GXR could just as well be named Kevin, although the acronym might stand for Gravel Cross Racer or Grand Xploring Randonneur, depending on your riding preference. And with multiple options for tire size and plenty of bikepacking-friendly features, that’s exactly how the GXR was conceived. The GXR features rack and fender eyelets, a full-carbon fork with two sets of Anything Cage mounts, fully external cable housing, and a custom-made chainstay yoke to increase tire clearance and stiffness under load.

  Highlights

  • Versatile, comfortable geometry for long days in the saddle
  • Rack mounts, top tube bosses, and downtube mounts
  • New Ride 415 VGM fork is rated for 8 kilograms (17 pounds) on each fork leg
  • Narrow, road q-factor, and one-sided CNC yoke

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Seven frame sizes are good, but picking one can be tricky
  • No dropper routing

  • Price: $2934 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1000
  

  Diamondback Haanjo

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Diamondback Haanjo lineup is for “adventure and gravel,” according to Diamondback. There are four models within the series, ranging from $1,000 to $2,950 USD, all based around an aluminum frame, carbon fork, lots of mounting points, and clearance for 27.5 x 2.1″ tires. It comes in five frame sizes and several different builds.

  Highlights

  • Affordable, with complete builds starting at just $1,000
  • Bottle mounts, top tube bosses, and rack mounts are all standard
  • Thru-axles and dropper posts on Haanjo 4 and 5
  • Regularly on sale

  Drawbacks

  • Haanjo 2 and 3 have quick-release dropouts

  • Price: $1000 (Haanjo 2 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1500
  

  Endpoint x FBM Hunter Gatherer

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100 (or 135QR) / 12 x 142mm

  Designed by Ride Endpoint and hand-built in Ithaca, NY, at FBM Machine Shop, the Hunter Gatherer features a steel tubeset made of 28.6 Columbus Zona and 4130 Chromoly. The Hunter Gatherer is designed for efficiency and comfort over the long haul with “a geometry that puts the rider in a more relaxed position that translates to comfort and control while cruising through multi-day adventures.” Keeping in the spirit of the category, it has relatively short 435mm chainstays to maintain responsiveness while still providing clearance for 27.5 x 2.4″ tires. The frame utilizes 12 x 142mm thru-axle standard for the rear wheel and the option of 15 x 100mm thru-axle or quick release low-trail fork with bottle bosses. It also has rear triangle and fork mounts for fenders and racks, and is equipped with three bottle cages mounted low to free up enough space for a frame bag.

  Highlights

  • Handbuilt in Washington
  • Clearance for big 27.5 x 2.4″ tires
  • Complete builds available

  Drawbacks

  • 6-8 week wait time
  • No dropper post routing

  • Price: $1500 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: NY, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $5599
  

  Evil Chamois Hagar

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Evil Chamois Hagar is certainly an outlier when it comes to big tire gravel bikes. Evil stayed true to their Pacific Northwest roots and started with a trail bike to create a truly unique take on the gravel bike. According to Evil, the Chamois Hagar “brings speed, stability, and that irrefutable Evil mischief to the otherwise safe and sensible drop bar market.” Is it a gravel bike? With a 66.67-degree headtube angle, a low-slung, lightweight frame, a 50mm stem, and a dropper post, who knows. The frame can accommodate both 700 x 50mm or larger 27.5 x 2.25″ tires, and Evil guarantees you won’t have toe overlap due to the slack headtube angle.

  For frame details and specs, find out original press release here.

  Highlights

  • Ultra-rowdy geometry, 66.67-degree headtube angle, short stem, and dropper post
  • A true “mountain biker’s gravel bike”
  • Multiple bottle mounts, down tube bosses, and top tube mounts
  • Crazy low 80mm bottom bracket drop

  Drawbacks

  • Possibly not even a gravel bike at all…
  • Expensive
  • No rack mounts

  • Price: $5599 (Rival AXS Build)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1250
  

  Fairlight Secan

  • Frame/fork: steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Fairlight Secan is a unique steel frame with a custom butted and formed Reynolds 853/853-DZB front triangle, a custom 0.8/0.5./0.8 Reynolds 853 top tube (20 x 30mm oval), and a custom 1.0/0.8/0.5/0.8 Reynolds 853 Gravel DZB (double zonal butted) down tube (30 x 40mm bi-oval). It also has a custom formed 4130 rear end with 19mm round chainstays and 14mm non-taper seat stays. other frame features include Bentley x Fairlight 142 x 12mm flat-mount dropouts, front and rear Fairlight axles, Fairlight 3d printed cable guide, Di2 compatibility, front and rear mudguard mounts, rear rack mounts, three sets of bottle bosses. The frameset comes with a Fairlight Cempa 100 x 12mm full carbon Fork with 1.1/2″-1.1/8″ tapered steerer.

  Note that the Secan has a 77mm bottom bracket drop, which is lower than most on this list (~75mm). We asked Fairlight about this and they assure us it works for this bike and “it is all the better for it.” So if you are interested in this bike for 650B/27.5″, we’d recommend tires on the heftier end of the spectrum (27.5 x 2.4″), as well as shorter crank arms if you are destined for chunkier terrain where pedal strike is a concern.

  Highlights

  • Massive tire clearance for a gravel bike
  • Extended size range, thanks to “regular” and “tall” versions
  • Beautiful details
  • Plenty of mounting points

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey, but justified

  • Price: £1250 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Birmingham, England
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2795
  

  Fat Chance Chris Cross

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1”
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  Built from a mix of Columbus and Reynolds 853 tubing, the Fat Chance Chris Cross features oversized chainstays and curved seatstays to allow ample room for 700x40c or 650B x 2.1” tires, the latter being what piqued our interest — with its ‘Yo Adventure Rigid’ steel battle axe of a boss-encrusted fork.

  Highlights

  • Designed and handmade in Oregon
  • High-end tubing
  • Options for additional mounts/etc.
  • Six standard frame sizes

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Production takes 10-12 weeks

  • Price: $2795 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: California, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £865
  

  Fearless Vulture

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.2" / 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 X 100 / 12 X 142MM

  Like its titanium counterpart, the Fearless Vulture is a big tire gravel bike that’s packed with utility and made for long days, weeks, or months in the saddle, both on and off the road. Some have called it “MonsterCrosser,” which seems accurate. It’s a proper modern steel multirole frameset with up-to-the-minute gravel geometry, disc brake mounts, and all the fixtures you’ll need for long-form adventures. It features a Chromoly steel frame and fork, loads of mounting points, and clearance for 29 x 2.2″ or 27.5 x 2.4″ tires.

  Highlights

  • Massive tire clearance
  • Versatile specs, including 1x and 2x drivetrain and carbon fork compatibility
  • Threaded BB and external cable routing

  Drawbacks

  • Just four frame sizes

  • Price: £865 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £720
  

  Fearless Warlock

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.3"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 12 X 100 / 12 X 142MM

  The Fearless Warlock is built for gravel and light touring. The frameset is made from select double-butted and ED-coated chromoly steel tubing featuring an oversized head tube, a mount-laden chromoly steel fork, full cable routing, a replaceable derailleur hanger, three bottle mounts in the triangle, rack mounts, and clearance for 700 x 47c or 27.5 x 2.3″ tires… pretty much ticking all the drop-bar bikepacking rig boxes.

  Highlights

  • Chromoly steel frame and fork
  • Reasonable tire clearance for mixed-terrain riding
  • Dropper post routing and modern specs
  • Lots of mounting points and thoughtful details

  Drawbacks

  • Just four frame sizes
  • Slightly more basic unicrown fork

  • Price: £720
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $5200
  

  Firefly Bicycles All-Road Ti

  • Frame: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts: 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  Firefly Bicycles, based out of Boston, Massachusetts, makes beautiful custom bikes with absolutely incredible finishing techniques. Their semi-custom All-Road Titanium features excellent tire clearance with a 3D printed yoke. Standard features include fully custom frame geometry and tube selection, meticulously TIG-welded construction, flat-mount disc brake dropouts, proprietary adaptive butted tubing, oversized head tube for tapered forks, and an ENVE thru-axle disc cross road fork.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in USA
  • Proprietary adaptive butted tubing
  • Fully custom frame geometry and tube selection
  • Massive list of options and upgrades

  Drawbacks

  • Very expensive
  • $1,000 deposit required for all bikes

  • Price: $5200 (Frameset with 3d Yoke)
  • Place of Manufacture: Massachusetts, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £2249
  

  Fustle Causeway GR1

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 86.5mm Pressfit
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Hailing from the UK, FUSTLE is an all-new, small, rider-owned bike brand created by Alastair Beckett, the man behind the Nukeproof Digger, Forbidden Bike Company, and Privateer Bikes. The brand’s MTB-inspired, flagship Causeway GR1 features an aluminum frame, carbon fork, and clearance for 700 x 50mm (27.5 x 2.2”) tires. The frame features a slack 69° head tube angle, relatively short 430mm chainstays, internal dropper post routing, and is designed to handle a shorter stem well.

  Find our original press release here.

  Highlights

  • Build options for different use-cases
  • Trail build with 1x drivetrain and dropper post looks fun
  • 27.5 x 2.2″ tire clearance hits a sweet spot for most riding

  Drawbacks

  • Only four frame sizes
  • Press-fit bottom bracket

  • Price: £2249 (GRX Base Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1299
  

  Genesis Fugio

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.35" (60mm)
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Genesis Fugio was updated in 2023, moving to a 6061 Aluminum frame for a lighter package with a noticeably stiffer front end, according to Genesis. It still has a matching carbon fork with lots of mounts, internal cable routing, and the frame is covered in mounting points for racks, cages, and other accessories. It’s available in three competitively priced complete builds, starting at £1,299.

  Highlights

  • Competitively priced and affordable base builds
  • Plenty of mounting points
  • Three builds/colors
  • Five sizes

  Drawbacks

  • Some components may leave something to be desired/li>

  • Price: £1299 (Fugio 10)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2950
  

  Horse Gravel Monster

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25" / 700 x 48mm
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 12 X 100 / 12 X 142MM

  Handmade in Brooklyn, NY, the Horse Gravel Monster is a no compromise gravel racer, perfect for events like Grinduro and Unbound Gravel. The frame features a threaded bottom bracket, 3D printed stainless steel flat mount dropouts, thru axles, a mix of high quality steel tubing, and is offered with any single color and accent color of your choice from Horse’s custom paint shop. They offer lots of custom upgrades including customized geometry, more mounts, internal cable routing, and wider tire clearance for those that want it.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in USA
  • Six frame sizes
  • Upgradeable, including fully custom geo

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Dropper post routing, extra mounts, etc, all extra
  • Wait times

  • Price: $2950 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $4397AUD
  

  Hunt Land Cruiser

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Hunt Land Cruiser V2 frame is equipped with a 142mm thru-axle dropout, a T47 bottom bracket, internal dropper post routing, rear rack mounts, fender mounts, and plenty of utility provisions. It has two pairs of bottle mounts inside the main triangle: one on the downtube and one on the seat tube. It also has a pair on the top tube for a bolt-on bag and a three-pack on the underside of the downtube, which is also used by the brake and derailleur housing guides. The carbon fork is equipped with three-pack mounts, internal dynamo routing, and a flip chip dropout offering a 47mm or 52mm offset. The Land Cruiser V2 has clearance for 700 x 50mm (29 x 2.0”) tires or 650b rubber up to 2.4” in width. Learn more here.

  Highlights

  • Titanium frame with mounts for cages and racks
  • Generous 27.5 x 2.4″ tire clearance
  • Dropper post routing

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey
  • No standard, stock builds

  • Price: $4397AUD (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2399
  

  J.Guillem Atalya Gravel

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: Pressfit PF24
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The J.Guillem Atalya Gravel is a high-end titanium drop bar bike with some unique design elements that set it apart from other titanium gravel bikes. It features big tire clearance (up to 27.5 x 2.1″ and 700 x 45mm), internal cable routing, flat mount brakes, and thru-axles. The frame has two standard bottle mounts, a third under the downtube, plus hidden rack and fender mounts. You can purchase the frame only for €2,399 or a complete build for €4,499 that’s specced with a Shimano GRX drivetrain, DT Swiss wheels, and an assortment of J.Guillem alloy components.

  Here’s what J.Guillem has to say about the Atalya Gravel, “It’s elegant, clean lines are accentuated and strengthened by the addition of pre-casted components, centred around a one-piece bottom bracket-chain stay system. The head tube is also casted and allows for full internal cable routing compatible with both mechanical and di2 cables. And fully-casted, titanium drop outs allow for Flat Mount Disc Brake System, with thru axles. The Atalaya is our state-of-the-art, do-it-all, go anywhere machine with a super versatility that doesn’t look out of place however you use it: with mudguards and a small rack, or stripped of all its fixtures for use as a pure gravel bike.”

  Highlights

  • Removable rack mounts
  • Aerospace grade 3Al/2.5V Titanium Frame
  • Custom cast 3D disc dropouts

  Drawbacks

  • Aggressive geometry might not be ideal for everyone
  • No dedicated rack mounts
  • Pricey

  • Price: €2399 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Asia
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €1404
  

  Jeronimo Sfarrapa

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: TBD
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Sfarrapa was named after a very well-known Portuguese smuggler, Esfarrapa. According to legend, he knew every trail and path in the area, and always dressed extremely modestly, even though he was a wealthy man.

  From Jeronimo: We named our new Gravel frame Sfarrapa Ti. Made for long distances and big adventures, it will take you to the most remote places. Fast and comfortable, the Sfarrapa is ideal for bikepacking. The Sfarrapa Ti is built with Ti3Al2.5V tubing. Titanium provides a unique ride that is efficient and comfortable at the same time. Plus, it looks gorgeous! This frame can work with one or two chainrings and was designed for both 700c and 650b size wheels. It comes with internal cable routing and is compatible with Shimano Di2 electronic shifting system. The best fork option for the Sfarrapa Ti is a 400 mm long fork with an offset of 50 mm. This frame is also available as a Kit that includes a carbon fiber fork and headset.

  Highlights

  • Designed in Portugal
  • Pedro Jerónimo is a “geometry wizard”
  • Option for custom geoemtry

  Drawbacks

  • Four stock sizes
  • Internal cable routing won’t be for everyone

  • Price: €1404 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1099
  

  Knolly Cache Steel

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1″
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Knolly approached the Cache’s geometry with mountain bikes in mind, for a “ride experience similar to our mountain bikes.” A longer front centre and shorter stem mean the Cache Steel is designed to be predictable in technical terrain but stable and comfortable enough to handle long, all-day rides. The Cache Steel is available in seven frame sizes—49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, and 62.5mm—with the smaller frame sizes built lighter weight, smaller diameter tubing. Similarly, the largest frame sets use larger and the mid-sized frames have a mix of the two. Read the full release post here, and find additional details and a video interview with the designer here.

  Highlights

  • Intuitive and comfortable geometry
  • Carbon adventure fork clears 27.5 x 2.4″ tires
  • Rack mounts, external cable routing, and dropper post routing

  Drawbacks

  • Price is on the high side for Taiwan-made gravel bikes

  • Price: $1099 (Frame and fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2900AUD
  

  Kumo Cycles RADdonneur

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Kumo Cycles is a one-person frame workshop run by Keith Marshall In Canberra, Australia. The Kumo RADdonneur is Keith’s take on a fast, tough and versatile backcountry machine… the result of several years, and over 30,000km of prototyping and testing. Batches of RADdonneurs are produced throughout the year and can be purchased from Kumo after they have been built and are ready for your choice of paint color and a few other options. Note, there are no pre-orders on RADdos, keep an eye on Kumo’s Instagram and sign up for their mailing list if you’re interested.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Australia
  • The result of 30,000km of prototyping and testing
  • Classic aesthetic
  • Plenty of tire clearance

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Wait times
  • Purchasing outside of Australia is pricey

  • Price: $2900AUD (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Canberra, Australia
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2150
  

  Lynskey GR300

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Lynskey’s titanium GR300 gravel bike looks to be an interesting option for those on the hunt for a comfortable, versatile, titanium gravel bike. As Lynskey puts it, the GR300 Adventure Edition is for “gravel and adventure-focused riders who demand a bike that ticks all the boxes: road, gravel, rugged commuter, and bike packing. Those who long to ride on road one day and gravel the next, but crave that titanium comfort ride with a smooth finish.” The frame is designed a Titanium 3AL-2.5V tubeset, 68mm English Threaded BSA Bottom Bracket, and offers top tube bosses, multiple bottle mounts, and rack / fender mounts. Prices vary greatly depending on the build kit and customizations chosen, but an externally routed frame and fork cost $2,150, and complete builds cost $4,000+.

  See our original press release on the Lynksey GR300 here.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Tennessee
  • 40 years of framebuilding experience

  Drawbacks

  • Extra mounts add to cost
  • Expensive

  • Price: $2150 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Tennessee, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2399
  

  Marin Gestalt XR

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Gestalt XR takes off-road capability to a new level with a short travel TranzX dropper post, 1×11 Shimano GRX drivetrain with an integrated dropper lever, and a flared Marin handlebar. Both the Gestalt XR and X10 are built up around Marin’s Series 3 6061 aluminum frame, thru-axles, rack and fender mounts, internal cable routing, and three-pack mounts on the carbon fork.

  Highlights

  • Unique mountain bike-inspired build kit
  • Dropper post!
  • three-pack mounts on fork legs
  • Long wheelbase should provide lots of confidence and stability

  Drawbacks

  • Strange rack mount position
  • 2.1″ tire clearance is okay, but could be bigger

  • Price: $2399 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1450
  

  Mason Bokeh

  • Frame/Fork: Aluminum (or Ti)/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Mason Cycles created the Bokeh in their own category, AdventureSport. They define this as ‘Continent Crushing’ rides that are different from gravel in that it’s more about riding fast. Bokeh bikes and framesets can use either 650b x 50mm or 700c, with up to 45mm tires. However, as they point out, Bokeh will clear 2.1″ tires, and the fork can take up to 2.25″. The standard Bokeh features a Dedacciai, custom formed, triple-butted Aluminium frame with Mason Parallax full carbon thru-axle fork. It has a full compliment of fender eyelets and a Dynamo light mount at the front. The frame features bottle/accessory mounts on the underside of the down tube, unique Mason MultiPort adaptable internal routing, and rack and mudguard mounts.

  The Bokeh is available in several build configurations as well as titanium.

  Highlights

  • Eight frame sizes
  • Size specific tubing and design
  • Loads of mounting points
  • New MASON design Rangefinder AS fork is tested to 30kg vertical loading

  Drawbacks

  • Aluminum tubing
  • Expensive, for aluminum

  • Price: £1450 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £2150
  

  Mason Exposure

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.3" / 700 x 50mm
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  Mason developed the Exposure for “fast, long-distance and multi-month adventure touring over very variable and unpredictable terrain.” And compared to the Bokeh, the Exposure has larger tire clearance (650b x 58mm or 700c x 50mm), mounts for full fenders, and even more mounting locations for accessories, racks, and additional bottle cages. The Exposure is built up around a custom-shaped, butted, phosphate-coated Dedacciai Zero Uno tube set with a CNC machined Reynolds 631 headtube shaped exclusively for Mason. Italy-based Cicli Barco is fabricating each frame. Mason paired the frame with their new full-carbon fork, the RangeFinder AS, which has bosses for cargo cages, racks, and fenders. It’s great to see top tube bosses, loads of mounts inside the main triangle and under the downtube, plus bottle cage mounts on the seatstays. Learn more here.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in the UK with quality tubing
  • Lots of mounts, dynamo routing, and seat stay bosses
  • Impressive attention to detail
  • Generous 27.5 x 2.3″ tire clearance

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive, but justifiable to some
  • Some size/color options require a pre-order/wait

  • Price: £2150 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1325
  

  MONē El Continente

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Clearance: 29 x 3.0" / 27.5 x 3.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 110mm / 12 x 148mm

  Designed around 29er or 27.5+ tires, with raw brass fillets, a bi-plane, curved offset fork, custom butted tubes, and short telescoping chainstays, this frame is a new take on a classic. According to Cjell MONē, it’s a drop-bar, plus, dirt tourer, born on the Tour Divide. Other frame features include Anything Cage mounts on the fork, two more triple mounts on the frame, and fender and low rider rack mounts. It’s non-suspension corrected, “a true dirt drop miracle designed to take on a grocery run, or a run down the Continental Divide.”

  Note that with a full 29+ setup, some toe overlap can be experienced on the S/M frames. As such, 27.5+ wheels are a great option for this bike. Also, with a 75mm bottom bracket drop, anything smaller than 27.5 x 2.4″ tires might make the bottom bracket a little low for those venturing into rugged and uneven terrain.

  Highlights

  • Undeniably unique aesthetic thanks to raw brass fillets
  • Matching bi-plane fork with three-pack mounts
  • Telescoping chainstays to tweak geometry and drivetrain options
  • Complete builds available upon request

  Drawbacks

  • Braze-ons only suitable for light-duty racks
  • Just three size options

  • Price: $1325 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1625
  

  MONē Hachita

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  The new Mone Hachita might be the most configurable and adaptable bike ever. Let’s start with what it isn’t compatible with: thru-axles, tapered forks, press-fit bottom brackets, fat bike bits, and 36er wheels. Starting from the front, the Hachita has nifty minimalist plates that allow for several brake positions: canti/V-brakes for 700c wheels and high pivot for 700c wheels or 650b wheels. Running 26″ wheels? They have plates for those, too. Are disc brakes more your style? That’s no problem with the Hachita. Learn more here.

  Highlights

  • Insanely adaptable/configurable
  • Disc brakes or rim brakes
  • Lots of thoughtfully positioned mounts
  • Classic styling

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive for a Taiwan-made frameset
  • Quick-release, no thru-axles

  • Price: $1625 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $479
  

  New Albion Drake

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  The New Albion Drake is an adventure touring frame built around 650b/27.5″ tires. New Albion claims it’s Stable enough medium duty touring and bikepacking, but also offers an enjoyable ride unloaded. Here is more from New Albion: While many modern touring forks only have 3-pack mounts, the Drake’s fork is designed for real racks — mini-rack mounts for randonneuring bags or low rider rack mounts for panniers. The geometry features a unique combination of higher bottom bracket height (than on touring and gravel bikes), high stack, and sloping top tube. This helps reduce pedal strike on uneven dirt terrain, allows for a higher bar set-up if desired, and improves standover clearance. Features tried and true standards like English threaded BB shell and QR dropouts and fork ends.

  Highlights

  • Chromoly steel frame
  • Mounts for fenders, racks, and multiple bottles
  • Optional fork available
  • Affordable

  Drawbacks

  • Somewhat basic Tange tubing

  • Price: $479 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €749
  

  Nordest Albarda

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2" / 700 x 50mm
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Citing inspiration from bikepackers and their unique needs, founder Pedro Jerónimo calls the Nordest Super Albarda 3 a “gravel/anything bike designed to go to the end of the world (and come back in one piece).” Departing from previous versions, the third Super Albarda borrows mountain bike geometry and is now optimized for a short 50mm stem. The frame is made from double-butted 4130 CrMo steel and also sports a 68mm BSA bottom bracket shell, 12 x 142mm thru-axle rear hub, 27.2mm seatpost with 29.8mm clamp, a TR44 steerer tube (ZS44/ZS44 or ZS44/EC44), room for 650B x 2.2″ or 700C x 50mm tires, and compatibility with up to a 46T single chainring or 50/34T double. There are mounts above and below the downtube, on the seatube, and on the top tube. It’s available in three sizes: medium, medium-large, and large.

  Highlights

  • Mountain bike-inspired geo should feel great off-road
  • Dropper post routing, rack mounts, and multiple three-pack mounts
  • Super clean aesthetic
  • Competitive pricing

  Drawbacks

  • Just three frame sizes
  • No stock builds

  • Price: €749 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2999
  

  Nordest CANDONGA

  • Frame: Titanium
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Dropouts: 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  According to Nordest, the CANDONGA “a gravel/anything bike designed to go to the end of the world.” The frame is made from TITANIUM Ti3Al2.5V double-butted tubing; it has external rear brake routing and internal Pinion Smart.Shift routing for those who want it, and it has more mounting points than the previous model, with top tube mounts, downtube mounts, rack mounts, and two standard bottle mounts. The frame has clearance for 700 x 50mm or 650b x 2.1″ tires, and it has sliding dropouts for belt/chain tensioning.

  Highlights

  • Pinion gearbox and Smart.Shift electronic shifting
  • Flat bar and drop bar geometry
  • Lots of mounting points

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Just four frame sizes

  • Price: €2999 (Frame Only)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2500
  

  Open U.P.

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF86 EVO
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Open U.P. caught our eye when it won best in show at Eurobike in 2016. Open named it their “gravelplus” frame—a gravel grinder without limits. At Interbike 2016, we got to take it for an hour long spin on road, gravel and singletrack. Built around a technology-laden carbon frameset with a superlight spec, it felt quick to ride, and incredibly easy to shoulder, though its quick handling felt a little twitchy until we were used to its geometry. It’s definitely a bike with lots of potential, not least because it’s drawn to take both 700C road wheels, or 650B mountain bike rubber up to 53m (2.1″) wide.

  Highlights

  • Lightweight carbon frame and fork
  • Dropped chainstay for added tire clearance
  • Plays nicely with skinny 700c wheels or chunky 27.5 x 2.1″

  Drawbacks

  • No rack or cargo mounts
  • Expensive

  • Weight: 1.43 kg (3.15 lbs)
  • Price: $2500 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1349CAD
  

  Panorama Cycles Anticosti

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100 x 12mm / 142 x 12mm

  The Panorama Cycles Anticosti was designed from the ground up to be capable on a wide range of surfaces, including gravel, off-road, or as a more traditional touring bike. Packing up for bikepacking should be easy with all the various mounts, including rear rack compatibility, Anything Cage mounts on the fork, three bottle cages, and an oversized main triangle for a frame bag.

  View the full press release here.

  Highlights

  • Lots of mounting points for racks, cages, and more
  • Unique frame graphics
  • ~21lb full build weight
  • Custom builds available

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey compared to similar bikes
  • Only three sizes

  • Price: $1349CAD (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1899
  

  Panorama Katahdin

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100 x 12mm / 142 x 12mm

  The Panorama Katahdin is built up around a carbon frame and fork that are studded with mounting points for cages, cargo, and racks. It features thru-axle dropouts, a threaded 68mm bottom bracket, internal dropper post routing, and still features graphics from Vancouver-based artists (and cyclists) Pellvetica. The redesigned fork is longer, with three-pack mounts and a small port for dynamo cable routing. There’s also an access port under the bottom bracket to help with threading cables and hoses.

  Highlights

  • Lightweight carbon frame and fork
  • Speedy geometry without being too aggressive
  • Lots of mounting points, including rack mounts

  Drawbacks

  • Internal cable routing
  • Only three size options
  • Pricey

  • Price: $1899 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $899
  

  Poseidon Redwood

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Alloy
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.3” / 27.5 x 2.6"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 12 X 100MM / 12 X 142MM

  At just $899, the Poseidon Redwood is packed full of modern specs and great value, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking looking for a versatile, capable, yet totally affordable drop bar adventure rig. It’s designed around an aluminum frame and fork, a MicroShift Advent 10-speed drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and 27.5 x 2.35″ tires (with clearance for 27.5 x 2.6″). It’s great to see the Redwood outfitted with thru-axles, multiple bottle mounts, downtube mounts, as well as triple pack mounts on the fork legs. The Redwood is also available as a frameset for $450 USD.

  Highlights

  • One of the most affordable monstercross bikes available
  • Impressive 2.6″ tire clearance
  • Loads of mounts
  • Six frame sizes

  Drawbacks

  • Aluminum frame/fork likely aren’t the most comfortable pairing
  • Affordable price means affordable parts

  • Price: $899
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1749
  

  Ragley Trig

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  UK-based Ragley’s Trig—the only gravel bike in the company’s MTB-heavy lineup—saw some welcome updates in 2020 that make it a competitive offering in the entry-level all-road market. The new builds are sporting the same 4130 Chromoly frame from the 2019 launch, but they now feature a carbon fork with three-pack mounts, and the wheels come taped for tubeless, valves included. Clearance for 700 x 40mm or 27.5 × 2.1” tires remains the same. The Trig is offered in a Gravel build (£1,199.99), Adventure build (£1,499.99), or as a frameset (£599.99). All options include Ragley’s five-year warranty and lifetime crash replacement. The Trig comes in four different frame sizes, has a standard 68mm threaded bottom bracket, 12mm thru-axles, and has rack/fender mounts.

  See our original press release here.

  Highlights

  • Well-specced entry level gravel bike with an affordable price point
  • Solid selection of mounting points
  • Dropper post routing

  Drawbacks

  • Would be nice to see a more affordable complete build

  • Price: £1749 (Complete Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1749
  

  Revel Rover

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket : 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  As the same folks behind Why Cycles and the popular R+ titanium gravel bike, it’s not a complete surprise to see them designing a carbon version of it—which is essentially what the Rover is. It shares many of the same angles as the R+, but has a longer wheelbase and a slightly longer reach and taller stack height. The Revel Rover is named after one of the most (in)famous trails in Alaska, Rover’s Run. Revel’s Alaska roots run deep with this bike. Adam, Revel’s owner, grew up riding all over Alaska. And Jordan, the lead engineer for this bike, spent years living in Alaska. It’s kitted out with many promising specs, such as 700 x 50mm (27.5 x 2.1″) tire clearance, a BSA 68mm threaded bottom bracket, a replaceable universal derailleur hanger, and a lifetime warranty.

  Highlights

  • Four bottle mounts on every frame size
  • Modern specs, threaded BB, and versatile geometry
  • Clearance for 27.5 x 2.1″ tires
  • Four complete builds to pick from

  Drawbacks

  • Base build isn’t cheap, at $4,000
  • No fork or rack mounts

  • Price: $1749 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1750
  

  Rivendell Atlantis

  • frame/fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.3" (59-62cm frames) / 27.5 x 2.3" (47-56mm frames)*
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  The Atlantis was renamed from the original Rivendell All-Rounder, a bike built for big tires and fire-roads. The original was made in batches of three in Wisconsin. Later, the Atlantis was fabricated in Japan in larger numbers, but the costs went up. To keep the same quality and maintain a competitive price, the company moved production to a trusted facility in Taiwan. The Atlantis still has the same creamy blue-green color scheme and headbadge, and underneath, the investment-cast Rivendell lugs and custom drawn Silver tubes are all the same. Such a beauty. Make sure to check out Benedict’s musings on it here.

  *Note that Rivendell switches wheel sizes with frame size: 47-56mm frames are 650B and 59-62cm frames are 700c.

  Highlights

  • Long chainstays means plenty of stability
  • Countless stunning details
  • Clearance for 2.3″ tires across the entire size range

  Drawbacks

  • Rim brakes
  • Expensive

  • Price: $1750 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1548
  

  Rodeo Labs Flaanimal

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.1" / 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Now in its 5th iteration, the Flaanimal is what Rodeo Labs describes as “a multi-use steel adventure frameset designed and built around the themes of versatility and adaptability.” The Flaanimal 5.0 uses Japanese Custom Butted, heat-treated tubing with an integrated carbon headtube and seat tube. Sliding dropouts allows for some tuning of how the bike handles as well as more drivetrain options. It also features Rodeo Labs’ Spork 3.0 fork, which comes complete with internal dynamo routing, adaptable axle spec, and configurable eyelet options. There are several different complete build options available ranging from $3,099 to $7,068 USD, and framesets start at $1,548 USD.

  Find our original press release on the Flaanimal 5.0 here.

  Pros

  • Generous tire clearance
  • Option for customizations, Cerakote finish, etc.
  • Integrated carbon seat tube is unique

  Cons

  • Pricey, but lots to offer

  • Price: $1548 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2975
  

  Rodeo Labs Traildonkey

  • Frame/Fork: Toray T800 carbon
  • Max Tire size: 27.5 x 2.4" / 29 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Originally conceived in 2014, Traildonkey is Rodeo Labs premier carbon bicycle without a category platform which Rodeo claims has abilities that range from pavement to singletrack to gravel, and from epic races to weekend bikepacking trips. 4.0 features six pairs of bottle mounts, rack and fender eyelets, a light mount, dynamo wiring, and increased tire clearance. It has clearance for 650b x 2.4″ and 29 x 2.2″ tires, but Rodeo Labs recommends running something a little smaller. Real all about the Traildonkey 4.0 here.

  Highlights

  • Big tire clearance
  • Integrated downtube storage
  • Sliding dropouts for singlespeed setups
  • Packed with useful features

  Drawbacks

  • Integrated cable routing looks nice but is difficult to maintain, but traditional routing is also available
  • Expensive

  • Price: $2975 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3199
  

  Rondo Ruut

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 86mm Pressfit
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Ruut is Poland-based Rondo’s most versatile drop bar bike. It’s design to go fast, on both smooth and rough roads, and features that they call their Vario Geo Concept. The Ruut’s Twintip Fork features an adjustable dropout, effectively changing the slackness (and steepness) of the fork, which allows the rider to switch between a sporty position for smooth roads and a more relaxed position for endurance and adventure rides. The Carbon Ruut packs in a lot of cool tech, including Rondo’s Flex Design points, which provides some extra flex in key areas of the frame for some added comfort. The Rondo Ruut is available in titanium, carbon, steel, and aluminum, including complete builds and frameset-only. The aluminum and steel frames claim a max tire clearance of 27.5 x 2.0″, while the carbon and titanium models can fit 27.5 x 2.2″ rubber.

  Highlights

  • Offered in carbon, alloy, steel, and ti
  • Adjustable dropouts/geometry
  • Lots of bottle mounts

  Drawbacks

  • Carbon and Ti models are pricey
  • No rack mounts

  • Price: $3199 (CF2)
  • Place of Manufacture: Poland
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €1899
  

  Rose Hobo

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  Following the release of their Hobo flatbar bike in 2023, the new ROSE Hobo Dropbar is a slightly more upscale, racier version of their commuter-focused model. With a narrower integrated front rack, name-brand build kit, and the apparent addition of drop bars, this do-it-all steel bike promises versatility right out of the box. Assembled in Bocholt, Germany, customers can expect a price increase from the flat bar version.

  The integrated front rack is the most intriguing part of the ROSE Hobo Dropbar. Where the flat-bar variant lists a five-kilogram weight limit, the narrower drop bar version’s weight limit is unlisted. Either way, it’s an interesting consideration for an adventure-focused bike. While we can’t imagine those concerned with lightening their load are all that excited, integrating a capable rack system frees up the fork blades and could provide greater ease of mind when assembling the sometimes overly complex puzzle of a bikepacking setup.

  Highlights

  • Integrated front rack
  • Reasonably priced complete builds

  Drawbacks

  • No rear rack mounts?
  • Not a great name

  • Price: €1899 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1250
  

  Rune Rufus Stone

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.3"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Rune Rufus Stone is a Taiwan-made, 650B-specific steel frameset that fits burly tires and beautifully blends old and new tech. Built from 4130 Chromoly, the Rufus Stone features room for 650B x 2.3″ tires with fenders, a lugged headtube and seat cluster, front/rear flat mount brakes, thru-axles with 12×100 / 12x142mm spacing, a 68mm English threaded bottom bracket, a 1″ headtube with threaded fork, 1x or 2x drivetrain compatibility, and a 27.2mm seatpost diameter. It features a suite of braze-ons for racks, fenders, and bottles and has been ISO 4210 tested to a “city and trekking” safety standard. Learn more here.

  Highlights

  • Classic styling, brazed lugged headtube and seat cluster
  • Generous tire clearance
  • Matching bi-plane fork

  Drawbacks

  • 1″ threaded fork won’t be for everyone
  • Pricey

  • Price: £1250 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2200
  

  SimWorks Doppo Ronin

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The SimWorks Doppo Ronin is centered around a TIG-welded Tange Chromoly steel frame and a matching Chromoly fork, both hand-built by Shin Hattori Works, a renowned framebuilder from Aichi, Japan. The frame features SimWorks Original dropouts with Paragon Machine Works 142 x 12mm inserts. It has fender and rack mounts, two standard bottle mounts, a three-pack mount under the downtube, and three-pack mounts on both fork legs.

  According to SimWorks, the Doppo Ronin is suitable for commuting, extended day rides on mixed surfaces, and multi-day tours. It’s offered in five sizes (X-XXL) and is convertible between 700c and 650b, accommodating tires up to 43mm with 700c wheels and up to 55mm (2.1″) with 650b (27.5”) wheels. Other specs include a straight 1 1/8″ headtube, flat-mount brakes front and rear, a 68mm BSA threaded bottom bracket, a 27.2mm seatpost, and 12mm thru-axles. All sizes except the XS have a 71.5° head tube angle, 440mm chainstays, and a low 70mm bottom bracket drop.

  Highlights

  • Hand-built by Shin Hattori Works, a renowned framebuilder from Aichi, Japan.
  • TIG-welded Tange Chromoly steel frame and a matching Chromoly fork
  • Good selection of mounting points
  • External routed cables

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey
  • Limited Availability

  • Price: $2200 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Japan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• 

  SingleBe Road+

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts: 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Based in the Czech Republic, SingleBe makes semi-custom bikes for several platforms. One that caught our eye was the SingleBe Road+, a 27.5 x 2.1″ tire drop-bar bike with a Reynolds 853 steel frame. SingleBe builds custom frames, forks, and complete steel bikes according to customers requirements and wishes, so pricing may vary.

  Highlights

  • Made in Czech Republic
  • Custom/made-to-order with lots of options

  Drawbacks

  • Pricey
  • Wait times

  • Place of Manufacture: Czech Republic
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $799
  

  Soma Wolverine

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 1.95" / 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 135 QR or 12 x 142mm

  The Soma Wolverine is a steel monstercross classic that’s been around for a few years. With a Tange Prestige heat-treated CrMo front triangle, ample tire clearance, fender and rack mounts, and a stable geometry, Soma positions it for off-road touring, but it’s also sporty enough for just about anything. Featuring IRD Broski sliding dropouts, V4 can be a singlespeed CX bike as well. And with a split seatstay, it’s also compatible with the Gates Carbon Belt Drive. The new V4 frame is constructed with a new welding method to keep more of the tube’s overall strength.

  Highlights

  • Competitive price point for a unique bike
  • A-Type and B-Type models for thru-axles and QR
  • Split seatstay for belt drive setups

  Drawbacks

  • No stock complete builds
  • Top tube cable routing isn’t the cleanest

  • Price: $799 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £599
  

  Sonder Camino

  • Frame/fork: Titanium (or Alloy)/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  AlpKit’s foray into the bike world started with a small handful of bikes under the brand name Sonder, each poised for multi-day adventure. One of which was the Sonder Camino Ti. According to Sonder, the Camino is a blend of cyclocross, gravel and adventure race bike, with a relaxed geometry for long day comfort. While specced to fit 2.0″ tires according to their website, we have confirmed that it does indeed fit 27.5 x 2.1″ tires with the supplied fork. The Camino is offered in both Titanium and Aluminum, in complete builds and as a frameset.

  Highlights

  • Affordable alloy frameset and builds
  • Titanium option for those who want it
  • Several three-pack sets
  • Rack mounts

  Drawbacks

  • Not available through international store
  • Tire clearance isn’t that impressive
  • Internal cable routing

  Photo courtesy of Adam Ferris.

  • Price: £599 (Alloy Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €1099
  

  Sour Bikes Purple Haze

  • Frame: Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2" / 29 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Purple Haze, Sour’s flagship adventure rig, has three sets of water bottle mounts, as well as mounts for fenders and a rear rack. There’s an aluminum and a carbon fork available, both with 12mm x 100mm spacing, internal light cable routing, and clearance for 29 x 2.2″ tires. Frames are available in sizes XXS-XXL.

  As Sour puts it, “Delivering a dreamy burst of euphoria that brings you right to your psychedelic heyday. With our Purple Haze you can remain cherished and full of blissful contentment throughout your day on the bike. It’s very special mix of geometry underscored by its materials and little details sum up to an exceptional ride.”

  Highlights

  • Solid tire clearance across entire size range
  • Optional Business Fork has mounts, dynamo routing, and more
  • External cable routing
  • Six frame sizes

  Drawbacks

  • On the pricier side, especially in North America
  • No rack mounts

  • Price: €1099 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €2199
  

  Standert Erdgeschoss

  • Frame/Fork: Stainless Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Built around a stainless steel frame and a carbon Columbus Cross+ fork, the Standert Erdgeschoss is, in their words, “a versatile gravel and bikepacking frame that handles all terrain and payloads with ease.” It features clearance for 700c x 50mm or 650b x 54mm tires; an adjustable 47mm or 52mm fork offset; front and rear internal dynamo routing; a seatstay mount for a rear light; and sliding rear dropouts that allow for adjustment of the wheelbase. As for mounts, it boasts three-pack mounts on the seat tube, top of the downtube, and fork blades; top tube bag mounts; a standard bottle mount under the downtube; and rack/fender mounts.

  Highlights

  • Stainless steel frame is unique
  • Plenty of mounting points
  • Seven frame sizes, framesets, and complete builds available

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Internal cable routing won’t be for everyone

  • Price: €2199 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £3695
  

  Stanforth Pamira

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Clearance: 27.5" x 2.4” / 29 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: BSA Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  Inspired by the Pamir Highway – traversing Central Asia’s Pamir Mountains – the new Pamira from UK-based Stanforth Bikes is built for loaded riding off the beaten path. And like all of Stanforth’s bikes, the Pamira is handmade to order in the UK and can be tailored to your measurements at no extra cost.

  The frame features bosses for front and rear racks, four bottle cage mounts, fender mounts, as well as three-pack bosses on the fork. It has routing for both Rohloff and derailleur gearing with dropout inserts for easily switching between the two. The Pamira is built from a mix of heat treated Reynolds 853 and 725 steel in the main triangle and air hardened 631 in the rear triangle. It’ll clear up to a 27.5” x 2.4” or 700c x 2.2″ tire. View thew full press release here.

  Highlights

  • Handmade in the UK
  • Loads of mounting points
  • External cable routing
  • Rohloff and Derailleur versions

  Drawbacks

  • Expensive
  • Wait times

  • Price: £3695
  • Place of Manufacture: UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £750
  

  Stooge Rambler

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.8"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded EBB
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Stooge Rambler puts the “monster” in “monstercross” and verges on being more of a plus-sized mountain bike, but because it also plays nicely with wide drop bars, we decided to include it here. It features modern MTB standards, has clearance for 27.5 x 2.6/2.8″ tires, and is designed to run 1x drivetrains. Here’s more from Stooge: “Holy Macaroni! The Rambler is here to save the day! Body snatchers be gone! A 69 degree head angle, short chainstays and a top tube length that’s just ‘right’ tie together for an unbeatable combination of agility and stability. Fat tyres = more comfort and grip = more speed on the long haul. Make no mistake, this is a fast and capable bike, as equally suited to a world tour as it is to ripping up the woods.”

  Highlights

  • Massive MTB-level tire clearance
  • Works with wide drops and flat bars
  • Capable and adaptable geometry
  • Beautiful bi-plane fork
  • Good price

  Drawbacks

  • Overkill for most gravel
  • Not sized like a gravel bike
  • Is this even a gravel bike?

  • Price: £750 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2349
  

  Surly Midnight Special

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.35" (60mm)
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Surly Midnight Special is a Road Plus bike designed to provide comfort and speed on all-day rides that extend well beyond fresh pavement. The Midnight Special has fewer features than other Surly models, but it utilizes modern road standards like flat-mount disc brakes, 12mm front and rear thru-axles, and a 44mm head tube. Coupling all that with a 650B x 60mm or 700C x 42mm tire clearance and a road-oriented geometry, they’ve come up with a very interesting bike. It has mounts for racks, fenders, and three water bottles as well.

  Highlights

  • That classic Surly aesthetic
  • $800 framesets and $2,300 complete builds are nice to see
  • Endurance road bike geo with big tires is unique
  • Readily available

  Drawbacks

  • Lacking some extra mounting points
  • Endurance road bike geo might not be the best for off-road riding

  • Price: $2349 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £2900
  

  Sven Cycles Pathfinder

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: BSA Threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Based in the seaside town of Weymouth, Dorset, Sven Cycles offer a number semi-custom bikes in their lineup, in addition to the fully custom work they take on. The Pathfinder 1×11 Adventure Bike is a semi-custom gravel bike built using Reynolds 921 stainless steel tubing and designed around 650b wheels and tires. Due to its semi-custom nature, you have options for adding additional bosses and mounts, and customizing the build kit when ordering a complete bike. The frame and fork cost £2,900, while complete builds start at £4,200.

  See a closer look and more photos from the 2019 Bespoked UK show here.

  Highlights

  • Made-to-order in the UK
  • Upgrades and add-ons available

  Drawbacks

  • 16 week lead time
  • Expensive

  • Price: £2900 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Dorset, UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £2099
  

  The Light Blue Darwin

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.35"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 100MM QR / 135MM QR

  The Light Blue Darwin is a lightweight sports touring bike that’s ready to go wherever you want, on or off-road. It’s designed around a Reynolds 725 steel frame, but the ‘MT’ build sees a longer and wider fork to raise the bottom bracket, slacken out the front end, and allows for much larger tire clearance. In this configuration, the Darwin has clearance for tires up to 29 x 2.25″ and 27.5 x 2.35″. The base build features a SRAM 1x Rival drivetrain, mechanical TRP Spyre brakes, and Halo Vapour GXC wheels.

  Highlights

  • Big tire clearance
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Classic styling
  • Build upgrades available

  Drawbacks

  • Available exclusively in EU

  • Weight: 11.45 kg (25.24 lbs)
  • Price: £2099 (Complete Build)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $5600
  

  Tout Terrain Scrambler

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 700 x 50mm / 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  The Tout Terrain Scrambler is a Pinion-equipped drop bar gravel bike. Designed to be equally suitable for after-work gravel rides and multi-week tours, the Scrambler features a steel frame, carbon fork, a Pinion C1.12 gearbox, and a huge selection of mounts and bosses for cages, bolt-on bags, and more. It has clearance for up to 700 x 50mm or 650b x 54mm tires and is available in 700c and 27.5″ builds.

  Highlights

  • Sub-30 pound complete build weight is nice to see
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Modern, upright geometry

  Drawbacks

  • 700 x 50mm tire clearance could be limiting
  • Pre-order only and 5-7 week wait time

  • Weight: 13 kg (28.66 lbs)
  • Price: $5600 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan/Germany
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1180
  

  Veloci Jimmy

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1″ or 700C x 45mm
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm BSA
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 100/142mm Thru-Axle

  The Veloci Jimmy features a Columbus Cromor frameset with a drive-side yoke that allows tire clearance up to 27.5 x 2.1″ or 700 x 45mm (although there are also claims that it can squeeze 2.4s). Jimmy has plenty of mounting options, including three-pack cage mounts over and under the down tube, top tube bag mounts, provisions for a rack and fenders, and another bottle cage pair on the seat tube. Other frame features include a STEEL RULE SUPPLY investment cast dropout that can toggle between quick release and 12mm thru-axles, stealth dropper post routing, and a BSA threaded 68mm bottom bracket shell. The Veloci Jimmy frame comes standard with a VELOCI No.11 carbon fork, complete with triple cage mounts on both legs, a flat brake mount, and a 12mm thru axle.

  Highlights

  • Lots of threaded bosses/mounting points
  • Dropper post and dynamo routing
  • Dealers all over Europe

  Drawbacks

  • Difficult to get in North America
  • Pricey

  • Price: $1180 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3100
  

  Wilde Earth Ship

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  From Wilde: “The Earth Ship exists to be the lightest, fastest, and most comfortable gravel bike on the market. It is the epitome of what we believe a modern drop bar bike can and should be. This is our dream hand-crafted USA-made gravel race / all-road bike. It is light, nimble, capable, and most importantly comfortable for very long days in the saddle. As we’ve gotten less self-conscious and more independent-minded we’ve come to embrace taller stack heights as the future of endurance riding. One of our goals with the Earth Ship was to create a bike that looked as aesthetically pleasing as possible with high handlebars. When it comes to big days, we believe that “comfortable is fast!”

  Highlights

  • Handmade in Minneapolis
  • handcrafted, Jen Green headbadge
  • Three bottle mounts
  • Seven frame sizes

  Drawbacks

  • No rack mounts
  • Pricey, but US-made

  • Price: $3100 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1200
  

  Wilde Rambler

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  According to Wilde, “It’s capable of gravel centuries, quick road loops, light touring, B-roads, and of course daily life.” The frame has modern specs including disc brakes, thru-axles, and clean downtube-routed cables. There are three-pack mounts on the fork legs, top tube mounts, multiple bottle mounts, and bosses for racks and fenders. Wilde describes the geometry as comfortable but nimble, and the Rambler has a high stack height for a slightly more upright riding position. Although Wilde also offers custom frames, they’ve partnered with the Maxway factory in Taiwan, which is known for making some the best steel frames available.

  Highlights

  • Geo optimized for an upright riding position
  • Lots of mounting points
  • Modular cable guides and full loop braze-ons
  • Several complete build options

  Drawbacks

  • Pricier than big-batch steel bikes
  • No dropper post routing

  • Price: $1200 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close

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What’d We Miss?

We searched high and low to gather a comprehensive list of 650B gravel bikes that fit our criteria. However, we’re well aware that we probably missed a few. If you know of a bike you think will make a solid addition to this list—preferably one you have first-hand experience with and can recommend—please let us know in the comments below. Note that we aren’t as interested in bikes devoid of extra bottle mounts; we also only list bikes that are available to purchase/order and have an informational page published on the web. Additionally, there are some bikes sold with a 700c kit that may work setup as a 27.5″. We may publish these if they are available to purchase as a frameset.

In addition, more 27.5″ drop-bar bikes will be released, and some of the models here will evolve, change, and may even be discontinued. Feel free to help keep this list up to date in the comments. Also, don’t forget to check out other our Gear Indexes on 29+ Bikes, Pinion Bikes, Rigid Mountain Bikes, and Drop-Bar 29ers here.

If you missed it, make sure to check out our article about 700C to 650B conversions. There are a lot of great options out there to use what you already have to create something new using the 650B platform!