650B Gravel Bikes: The Monster(cross) List

By Logan

PUBLISHED May 21, 2020

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Originally published Jan 2nd, 2019 / Major update: May 21, 2020

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, yet 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 are 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 was 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):

• $4400
  

  3T Exploro

  • 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 Exploro 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 Exploro could be worth considering.

  • Weight: 8.16 kg (17.99 lbs)
  • Price: $4400 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2499
  

  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.

  • Weight: 13.15 kg (28.99 lbs)
  • Price: $2499
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $5500
  

  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.”

  • Weight: 9.35 kg (20.61 lbs)
  • Price: $5500 (Force 1 MTB)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2499
  

  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

  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.”

  • Price: $2499
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1749AUD
  

  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

  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. stay tuned for a full review.

  • Price: $1749AUD (Frame/fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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.

  • Price: $3299 (Rival 1 Build)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2999
  

  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.

  • Weight: 8.43 kg (18.58 lbs)
  • Price: $2999 (650B)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $4199
  

  Norco Search XR Carbon

  • 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

  Norco’s revamped Search XR Carbon 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 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.

  • Weight: 9.53 kg (21 lbs)
  • Price: $4199 (Force 1 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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.

  • Price: $2700 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £816
  

  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.

  • Price: £816 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2599
  

  Rocky Mountain Solo 70

  • Frame/Fork: 6061 Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: BB386 PressFit
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  See Our Full Review

  Last seen in Rocky’s 2016 catalog, the Rocky Mountain Solo is a bike that’s been in and out of Rocky’s lineup for years. At one point in time it was a traditional road bike, then a CX bike, and now it’s been fully revamped from the ground up as a gravel and adventure rig. The new Solo is 1x-specific and comes in three models, all featuring a 6061 SL alloy frame with a “Zero Stack” tapered headtube and a 142 x 12mm rear thru-axle. The Solo frame also features flat mount disc brakes, three bottle mounts (two in the triangle and one under the downtube), internal cable routing, and rack and fender mounts. According to Rocky, the Solo has a unique yoke design to accommodate large 700x45c or 650B x 2.2 tires, as well as a large chainring (each model is specced with a 40t ring).

  • Price: $2599 (Solo 70)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • 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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• $1099
  

  Salsa Journeyman 650B

  • 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 $949 or $1,499, depending on the model, the Journeyman 650b rounds out Salsa’s multi-platform, all-road lineup, landing on the entry-level end. It seems as if the Journeyman is designed for gravel-curious riders who aren’t quite ready to pony up $2,500 or more for a race-ready Warbird, but are looking for a feature-rich, versatile bike. However, we rode the Journeyman 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 650b comes with 650B x 2.1″ tires, drop or flat bars, and either a carbon or alloy fork. All told, there are six models. Be sure to check out our detailed review here.

  • Price: $1099 (Sora)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $4399
  

  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

  The new Warbird v4 frame has a ton of updated tweaks and changes, including more mounts, tire clearance, and other bikepacking friendly features. As far as the 650B version, Warbird Force 1 650 gets a SRAM Force 1×11 drivetrain, 650B x 47mm WTB ByWay tires, Salsa Cowbell Deluxe handlebars, and KOM Light rims with 23mm internal width. Learn more over on the press release and stay tuned for a full review.

  *Note that Salsa claims the Warbird fits up to 2.0″; however, they initially specced it with 2.1″ tires, so they will fit (depending on brand, etc).

  • Price: $4399 (Force 1 Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $880
  

  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.

  • Price: $880 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1125
  

  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 29×2.6″) 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.”

  • Price: $1125 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2349
  

  Why Cycles 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 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.

  • Price: $2349 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2250
  

  333fab AirLandSea

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.35"*
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 15 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The AirLandSea Cascadian Rambler is the brainchild of Maxwell Kullaway, the frame builder behind Seattle-based 333Fab. This limited edition bike is described as an “all-road/off-road bicycle made to carry you and your stuff over rough tarmac, gravel, dirt roads, and muddy single-track trails typical to the PNW.” With custom graphics by Kyler Martz and a PNW inspired fade paint scheme, the AirLandSea is the only model made by 333fab in stock sizes. There are seven sizes available with progressive geometry to suit riders ranging from 5′-6’5″. Each individual size has its own size-specific tubeset with varying tube diameters.

  The AirLandSea is built around a 73mm English threaded bottom bracket with the option for a T47 BB. The T47 is recommended for those interested in rear dynamo lighting or Di2. The T47 BB works a little better for internal wiring as it allows more clearance. For the 73mm BB, 333fab worked with White Industries to use their M30 spindle in conjuction with R30 crank arms to optimize chainline.

  There are fork options as well. The tapered head tube will accommodate a 1.125″ steerer for the 65mm rake, low-trail, steel touring fork (as shown) or a tapered steerer for a carbon fork. Other options include internal routing for front and rear dynamo lighting, rear rack mounts, and choice of axle size (QR, 12mm, or 15mm axle). Every AirLandSea comes equipped with fender mounts, stainless steel PMW ‘rocker’ dropouts, and room for 27.5″ x 2.25″ tires (with 65mm fenders). *It’s likely that AirLandSea will fit tires up to 2.35″ without fenders.

  Photograph courtesy of Morgan Taylor

  • Price: $2250 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Washington, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2000
  

  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.

  • Price: $2000 (Frame)
  • Place of Manufacture: New Hampshire, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• €2750
  

  8bar Grunewald Carbon v2

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1 / 29 x 2.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF86
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 X 100MM / 12 X 142MM

  The 8bar Grunewald Carbon v2 is a carbon gravel bike with dual dropped chainstays that accommodate 29×2.0 / 27.5 x 2.1″ tires while still maintaining short chainstays. It is equipped with loads of mounting points, including triple pack mounts on the carbon gravel fork, and rack + fender mounts. The 8bar Grunewald Carbon v2 is offered as a frameset or in several different complete builds, and comes in black or your choice of custom paint.

  • Weight: 1.05 kg (2.31 lbs)
  • Price: €2750
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1500
  

  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.”

  • Price: £1500 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Scotland
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1750CAD
  

  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

  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.”

  The Hog’s Back is available in two different builds; the Gravel Build or Back-Road Tourer Build, which both retail for $1,750 CAD (~$1,255 USD). Plus, as a frameset, in four different sizes, for $800 CAD (~$570 USD), in three colourways: Pink, Forest Green, and Bleu Nuit.

  Find our original press release here, which includes an interview with Bassi Bikes’ owner Julian Gammon to learn more about his company and the Hog’s Back.

  • Price: $1750CAD (Gravel Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $4600
  

  Black Cat Bicycles Hello Monsta!

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.4"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 15 x 110 / 12 x 148mm

  Hello Monsta! is a US-made big-tired gravel bike, or as Black Cat puts it, “The perfect gravel bike, scaled up.” It’s designed around 27.5×2.4″ tires, boost hub spacing, a 73mm threaded bottom bracket, and a custom blended rugged tubeset for aggressive riding. Since they are made in house, the frame and fork are custom sized and made-to-order. The frame features S bend seat stays, flat mount brakes, 27.2 or 30.9 seatpost, and can be set up for drop or flat handlebars.

  The Hello Monsta! starts at $4,600 USD for a frame and fork, including a White Industries custom crankset and headset. Complete build options are endless, so it’s best to contact Black Cat Bicycles to learn more.

  • Price: $4600 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: California, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3470
  

  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. As a brand-new model for 2018, 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. Build highlights include a SRAM Rival 1 drivetrain, flat-mount Rival hydro brakes, and a slick set of Hunt Adventure Sport offset 27.5″ wheels. Check out our first ride impressions here.

  Photo courtesy of Joachim Rosenlund.

  • Price: $3470
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• €3600
  

  Bombtrack Hook ADV

  • Frame Fork: Steel/MRP 40mm
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: T47 Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm
  • Weight: 13.3 kg (29.32 lbs)
  • Price: €3600
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2795
  

  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.

  • Price: $2795 (Frameset (with Stainless dropouts))
  • Place of Manufacture: Oregon, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1799
  

  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 with 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 $1799 USD, while the Doppler Pro retails for $1299 USD.

  • Price: $1799
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $3999CAD
  

  Brodie Romax Carbon

  • 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 saw major updates for 2020, including 13 different models to choose from in carbon, aluminum, 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.The standard Romax Carbon 2x 650B build retails for $3,999, the Adventure 2x 700 is $4,199, and the Race 1x 700 is $4,025 CAD.

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

  • Price: $3999CAD (2x 650B)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £750
  

  Brother Cycles Mehteh

  • Frame/Fork: Reynolds 725 steel / carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • 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.

  Brother Cycles Mehteh features

  • Frame: Reynolds 725 main triangle
  • Fork: Tapered carbon gravel
  • Tire Clearance: 650b x 56mm / 700c x 45mm
  • Dropouts: Thru-axle flat-mount
  • Cable Routing: External + Stealth dropper post

  View the full press release here.

  • Price: £750 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
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• $2395
  

  Chiru Vagus

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • 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 compliment 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 2.1″ or 52mm wide.

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  • Price: $2395 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2395
  

  Chumba Terlingua Ti

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • 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 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.

  • Price: $2395 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Texas, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $925
  

  Crust Bombara

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

  The Crust Bombara is designed around 27.5 x 2.4″ 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.

  • Price: $925 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1675
  

  Crust Dreamer

  • 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

  The Dreamer is the slimmed down USA-made version of the Evasion. According to Crust, “Both are designed for cruising on any road you might want to follow, but the Dreamer is a little more suited for day rides and fair weather touring. The tire clearances are a little tighter, the tubes are a little lighter, and there are one or two fewer braze-ons. The geometry has been tuned a little (just a tiny bit), with a hair longer top tubes, a shade steeper head tubes, and a scant bit more rake. And we used the most modern of axles, 12mm thru-axle on the rear.”

  The Dreamer is frame is designed around 650b x 2.0” or 700 x 48mm tires and a standard 400mm carbon gravel fork (frameset comes with your choice of a Enve or Lithic carbon fork). It’s made out of .8/.5/.8 VariWall Thermlx air-hardened main tubes with 4130 CrMo elsewhere. Frame features include a tapered headtube for 1-1/8″ to 1-1/2″ external headset cups (EC34 and EC44), a 12 × 142mm Syntace style thru-axle, routing for full cable housing, and plenty of mounts (two sets of triple bosses on the downtube and a pair of bottle bosses on the seat tube).

  Photo courtesy of Ben Kampschoer.

  • Price: $1675 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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.

  • Price: $1175 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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 a 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.

  • 1x specific due to internal cable routing
  • Headset: 1, 1/8th treadless
  • E.D coated
  • Lugged in places, fillet brazed in others
  • 68mm English threaded BB (You still need mountain cranks or longish square tapper spindles to clear chain stays)
  • Flat mount rear brake
  • 27.2 seatpost
  • 52cm & 55cm frames are designed around a 27.5 X 2.0″ tire, or a 26 X 2.8″ (max, can not fit 3.0″)
  • 58cm & 62cm frames are designed around a 29 x 2.0″ tire or a 27.5 x 2.8″ (max, can not fit 3.0″)

  • Price: $1250 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $1275
  

  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.

  • Price: $1275 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2750
  

  Curve GXR Kevin Ti

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm T47
  • 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. See more photos and read the release here. Also, note that Curve released a steel version for $1,749 AUD (~1,235 USD).

  • Price: $2750 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1999
  

  Diamondback Haanjo 5C EXP Carbon

  • 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 5C EXP Carbon blends new and old with a unique looking carbon frame, and a road triple crankset paired with bar-end shifters. With plenty of tire clearance and HED Tomcat Disc wheels, Diamondback dubs it as their drop-bar adventure rig.

  • Price: $1999
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1485
  

  Elephant National Forest Explorer

  • 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

  As Elephant describes it:

  “The National Forest Explorer (NFE) is the ideal bike for long days of spirited riding on dirt roads. While designed to carry a small load over the wheel for day supplies, the NFE also handles well with low-riders and a rear saddle bag for overnighting. Unlike many heavy “adventure bikes” or “gravel grinders” sold by larger manufacturers, the NFE is light and responsive, built with a double-butted front triangle and 4130 rear triangle.

  The geometry is optimized for experienced riders who prefer nimble handling and a light steering input. The fork is unicrown construction with a handmade direct-mount disc tab and a beautiful bend.”

  • Price: $1485 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Washington, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1300
  

  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 2.25″ 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.

  • Price: $1300 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: NY, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $4799
  

  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 700x50mm or larger 27.5×2.25″ tires, and Evil guarantees you won’t have toe overlap due to the slack headtube angle. The Chamois Hagar is available as a frame only for $2,799, a complete GRX build for $4,799, and a top-end Force AXS build for $5,899.

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

  • Price: $4799 (GRX Build)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• £1099
  

  Fairlight Secan

  • Frame/fork: steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • 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 (~70mm). 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 2.25″), as well as shorter crank arms if you are destined for chunkier terrain where pedal strike is a concern.

  • Price: £1099 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Birmingham, England
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2545
  

  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.

  • Price: $2545 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: California, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £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.

  • Price: £720
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $5100
  

  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.

  • Price: $5100 (Frameset with 3d Yoke)
  • Place of Manufacture: Massachusetts, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1999.99
  

  Fustle Causeway GR1

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • 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 2.1”) 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. The Causeway GR1 comes in three sizes (SM/M, M/L, L/XL) and three different frame colours (Red, Green, and Blue). You can purchase as a frameset for £799.99, as a frame/fork chassis kit for £849.99, or as a custom build. Complete bikes start at £1999.99.

  Find our original press release here.

  • Price: £1999.99 (GRX Base Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1550
  

  Genesis Fugio

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

  Although Genesis missed the boat by not including mounts on the fork blades, the Fugio looks great in every other way. On the latest iteration of the platform, they added 12mm thru-axles front and rear, full internal Di2 and dynamo routing, three bottle cage bosses on the frame, and asymmetric chainstays for tire clearances up to 2.35″. These improvements are coupled with a solid build kit, including Clement X’Plor MSO 50mm tires, a SRAM Apex 1x drivetrain, and TRP Spyre brakes – a nice combination overall.

  • Price: £1550 (Model 20)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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.

  • Price: $2950 (frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• €3999
  

  J.Guillem Atalya Gravel

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.6"
  • 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 massive tire clearance (up to 27.5×2.6″ and 700x45mm), 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 €2,099, or a complete build for €3,999 thats 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.”

  • Price: €3999
  • Place of Manufacture: Asia
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2299
  

  Juliana Quincy CC

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

  The 2020 Juliana Quincy has the same design, clearances, geometry, mounts, and features as the new Santa Cruz Stigmata with one major deviation–the Quincy also comes in a smaller size 49cm frame, fit for riders ~5’0” to ~5’2”. The Quincy features women-specific components like the Ergon SR10 saddle and slightly narrower bars. The Juliana Quincy comes in sizes 49, 52, and 54, in five different builds with either 650B or 700c wheels and tires. The Quincy CC frame is available for $2,299 USD, while a Rival build costs $3,599 and the Force AXS build is $5,899.

  Find details on both the Juliana Quincy and Santa Cruz Stigmata here.

  • Price: $2299 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1850
  

  Kinesis Tripster ATR

  • Frame/Fork: Titanium/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.?*
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  The Kinesis Tripster ATR has been on our radar since it was revised in 2017. The latest model gets a different geometry with a 70mm BB drop, and frame features such as internal cable routing, a Shimano flat mount inboard rear disc caliper mount, and a multi-dropout system; 12 x 142mm with through axle supplied.

  *One issue we have with this bike is the clearances. Although claimed tire clearance has been increased to up 45mm for 700C and 27.5 x 2.0″, it’s unclear whether the Tripster will fit 2.1″ tires as is the criteria for this list. That said, we decided to leave it in as it’s a really interesting frame.

  • Price: £1850 (Frame Only)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1399
  

  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.

  The 2020 Knolly Cache Steel frame is priced from $999 (frame-only) to $1399 USD with Knolly’s own carbon fork. Complete bikes range from $3,245 to $5,229 USD.

  • Price: $1399 (Frame and fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2699
  

  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

  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.

  • Price: $2699 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• €2799
  

  Kory York G-Spot

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2" (700c x 43mm)
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 12 x 142mm

  Handmade in Italy, the Kory York G-Spot is available ass a frameset starting at €1,299, or as a complete as specced below…

  • Frame 100% Handmade in Italy
  • COLUMBUS® NIVACROM® ZONA
  • High Quality Asymmetric Double Butted Steel Tubes
  • Handcrafted TIG Welding and Meticulous Finishing
  • Sliding Dropouts with Paragon Machine® inserts
  • Positive Slope
  • Size: XS | S | M | L | XL (custom geo available on request)
  • Bottom Bracket Threading* : BSA BB 68mm (T47, BB30 available on request)
  • Seatpost Diameter* : Ø 27,2 mm
  • Head tube: Integrated Tapered 1 1/8″- 1 1/2″ with Deda® Headset include.
  • Brake Type: Flat Mount Disc Brake
  • Max tire: 700c x 43mm and 27.5 x 2.2″
  • Fork spacer: 100mm
  • Rear spacer: 142mm for Gravel/Monstercross, 135mm for Singlespeed, 120mm for Tracklocross
  • Weight: 1860g (Size M)
  • Cables routing: External (Internal cable routing available on request +70€)
  • Bottle cage mounts: 2
  • Other Options: Third bottle cage mount, fender mount, front rack mount, rear rack mount

  • Drivetrain: SRAM Apex 1 Hydraulic groupset
  • Crankset: 170.0 / 172.5 / 175.0 mm, 42 tooth chainring
  • Cassette: 11-42 t
  • Wheelset: MICHE GRAFF
  • Tires: PANARACER GRAVELKING SK 700x35c Tubeless Ready Flessibile
  • Stem: DEDA Elementi ZERO1
  • Handlebar: DEDA Elementi GRAVEL100
  • Headset: Kory York Aluminium (Cartridge Bearing)
  • Seat Post: DEDA Elementi ZERO1
  • Saddle: Selle San Marco Squadra Dynamic Open (Manganese)

  

  • Price: €2799 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Italy
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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 man 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.

  • Price: $2900AUD (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Canberra, Australia
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3400
  

  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 ‘Adventure Edition’ 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 costs $1,750 and the base SRAM Rival 2x build starts at $3,400 USD.

  See our original press release on the Lynksey GR300 here.

  • Price: $3400 (Rival 2x)
  • Place of Manufacture: Tennessee, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1349
  

  Masi Giramondo 27.5

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1" / 29 x 2.0"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100mm QR / 135mm QR

  The Giramondo 27.5 is marketed toward the “adventure rider with broad ambitions.” The biggest and most impressive change to the 2019 Giramondo is the new segmented fork. With dual offset bottle mounting locations on each leg, there are now options for an Anything Cage or a standard bottle cage. The fork also has dynamo hub wire routing. The 2019 model features WTB dirt-drop handlebars, Brev M. 23mm IW rims, a wide-range 3×10 Deore drivetrain, WTB Nano Comp 27.5 × 2.1″ tires, and plenty of rack mounts. Although the 2019 model gets a little price bump, it still seems like a decent value at $1,349.00.

  • Price: $1349
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1150
  

  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.

  • Price: £1150 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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
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• €1380
  

  Monk Bicycle GXT

  • Frame/Fork: steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.3"
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100mm QR / 135mm QR

  From Monk: “Today, the idea of the drop bar mountain bike still remains a radical yet totally reasonable concept. Monk Bicycle offers quality frames, precisely made in Germany and crafted with the drop bar MTB in mind. A modern interpretation of a timeless design – a bike both dedicated and versatile. Ideal for use in a variety of applications and terrains. Our framesets are made from the best steel components and feature a wheel size specific sizing concept to ensure a consistent riding experience.”

  The Monk GXT Bikepacking frameset is made from Columbus Zona steel tubing. Forks are made from True Temper steel blades and they use frame building components from Paragon Machine Works.

  • Price: €1380 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Germany
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• 

  New Albion Drake

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: PressFit PF30
  • 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 are the specs:

  • Tange Infinity double butted CrMo steel main tubes; tapered CrMo rear tubes
  • Fits racks and fenders
  • Three sets of water bottle bosses
  • Extra tall headtube makes upright builds look better
  • Designed for disc brakes (Internation Standard mount, 160mm rotors)
  • Rear rack mounts
  • Bottom bracket: PressFit PF30. We chose this spec because it is compatible with eccentric bottom brackets which is needed by folks wanting to run a Rolhoff or other internal geared hub. You can also buy adapters, if you need to run cranks for threaded BB’s
  • Optional fork available (Lugged sloping crown, 50mm rake, low rider pannier braze-ons, double eyelets at dropouts) (Frame is compatible with forks that have a 390-400mm axle to crown with 44 – 50mm rake/offset)
  • Sizes: 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60cm (Virtual sizing — does not go by seat tube length)
  • Paint: Satin Brown
  • Part Requirements: Seatpost: 27.2mm OD, Seat Collar: 30.0mm Front derailleur: 28.6mm OD, Headset: 1-1/8″, external cup, Rear hub: 135mm, Brakes: Disc, Bottom bracket: Press fit (PF30 / 46mm ID shell).

  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1099
  

  Norco Search XR Steel

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

  Sharing the same geometry as the Search XR Carbon, the steel version features lightweight Reynolds 725 tubeset selected for its ride feel and vibration-damping properties. With tire clearance up to 700 x 45c (or 27.5″ x 2.1”), rack, fender and bottle mounts, the Search XR Steel has all the necessary trimmings for off the beaten path exploration. It’s available in several configurations including a $2,600 rival build with 700C wheels, or the frameset only for $,1100.

  • Price: $1099 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3200
  

  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 55m (2.2″) wide.

  • Weight: 1.43 kg (3.15 lbs)
  • Price: $3200 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $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

  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. Read the full press release here.

  • Price: $3200 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: China
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2199CAD
  

  Panorama Cycles Anticosti

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • 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.

  Panorama Cycles Anticosti Features:

  • Reynolds 725 Steel Frame
  • Tapered Headtube
  • Carbon Fork with Cargo Mounts
  • BSA Threaded Bottom Bracket
  • 12mm Thru-Axles Front / Rear
  • Flat Mount Brakes
  • 1×11 SRAM Apex Build Kit
  • WTB Nano 27.5 x 2.1″ Race Tires
  • 24.4lbs (Size 56)
  • $2,199 CAD ($1,650 USD)

  View the full press release here.

  • Price: $2199CAD
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• $899
  

  Poseidon Redwood

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Alloy
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.3” / 27.5 x 2.5"
  • 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 2.5″). It’s great to see the Redwood outfitted with thru-axles, multiple bottles mounts, downtube mounts, as well as triple pack mounts on the fork legs. The Redwood is also available as a frameset for $450 USD.

  • Price: $899
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1499
  

  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.

  • Price: £1499 (Adventure Build)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1399
  

  REI Co-op Cycles ADV 3.1

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100mm / 135mm QR

  REI Co-op Cycles ADV 3.1 is their affordable take on a drop-bar grave/bikepacking bike. The chromoly frame and fork feature loads of mounts and the complete build has a Deore 2×10 drivetrain with 38/24 chainring combo. The bike also has a flared bar and REI claims the complete weighs 27.4 pounds for the medium.

  • Double-butted chromoly steel frame offers durability for the backcountry and the reliably smooth ride quality that steel is known for
  • Flared handlebar with bar-end shifters enhances downhill handling on rough terrain
  • Shimano Deore double crank powers the 20-speed drivetrain for versatile performance on any grade
  • TRP Spyre cable-actuated mechanical disc brakes supply excellent stopping power
  • Puncture-resistant 650b tires have a wide, stable contact patch for confidence on varied terrain
  • Low-rider fork mounts and rear braze-ons accept front and rear racks for light touring (racks sold separately); 3 water bottle mounts

  • Price: $1399 (Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1750
  

  Rivendell Atlantis

  • frame/fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 29 x 2.2" (59-62cm frames) / 27.5 x 2.2" (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.

  • Price: $1750 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3099
  

  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 it’s 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 $1,475 USD.

  Find our original press release on the Flaanimal 5.0 here.

  • Price: $3099 (SLX 12-Speed)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2975
  

  Rodeo Labs Traildonkey 4.0

  • Frame/Fork: Toray T800 carbon
  • Max Tire size: 27.5 x 2.4" / 29 x 2.2"
  • 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.

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

  Rondo Ruut Carbon

  • 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.

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  • Price: $3199 (CF2)
  • Place of Manufacture: Poland
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $3200
  

  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

  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 for $3,200, or with an Enve G-series fork for $3,960. Complete builds with options for complete customization are also available.

  See our initial press release on the Storm King here.

  • Price: $3200 (frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Oregon, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2299
  

  Santa Cruz Stigmata CC

  • Frame/Fork: Carbon/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.1"
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm threaded
  • Dropouts (f/r): 12 X 100 / 12 X 142MM

  For 2020, Santa Cruz once again revived the Stigmata platform with several slight geometry changes, a new carbon layup, and a few features that might just convert a lot of people: added bottle cage mounts, more tire clearance, and a threaded 68mm bottom bracket. The Stigmata features a slightly dropped chainstay, allowing for clearance up to 700c x 45mm or 27.5 x 2.1” tires. It’s available in five different builds in two colours, ranging from $3,599 to $9,899 USD. The carbon Stigmata CC frame can also be purchased on its own for $2,299.

  For a closer look at the 2020 Santa Cruz Stigmata, find our first look here.

  • Price: $2299 (Frame Only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• 

  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.

  • Place of Manufacture: Czech Republic
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2300
  

  Smeltzer Bikes Thee Gifford

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.2"
  • Bottom bracket: 73mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 12 x 100 / 12 x 142mm

  Named after the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest, Thee Gifford was created to tackle the fast, twisting, and loamy trails of the Pacific Northwest as well as the all-day rides on gravel and pavement that come with the territory. The design features a slightly higher 73mm bottom bracket for the rowdy stuff, a custom segmented steel fork with tons of mounts, and substantial tire clearance up to 27.5 x 2.2″.

  • Price: $2300 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Oregon, USA
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $580
  

  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, V3 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 V3 frame is is constructed with a new welding method to keep more of the tube’s overall strength.

  • Price: $580 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1300
  

  Sonder Camino Ti

  • Frame/fork: Titanium/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 fir 27.5 x 2.1″ tires with the supplied fork.

  Photo courtesy of Adam Ferris.

  • Price: $1300 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• €849
  

  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.”

  • Price: €849 (Frame only)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
  contract Close
• $2999
  

  Spooky ROVR

  • Frame/Fork: Alloy/Carbon
  • MAX TIRE CLEARANCE: 27.5 x 2.25" / 700 x 50mm
  • Bottom Bracket: 73mm threaded
  • DROPOUTS (F/R): 12 X 100 / 12 X 142MM

  The ROVR was updated in 2020 with all new specs, including a wider 73mm bottom bracket and clearance for 700c x 50mm / 650b x 2.25″ tires. The frame is made from tempered 7005 series Italian aluminum tubing, comes standard with three bottle mounts, and framesets are finished with a Chris King Inset 7 Headset, and either an ENVE Gravel or Adventure Fork. The ROVR is designed around the SRAM AXS eTap Wide groupset for its efficiency and aesthetics, but cable routing can be added if desired. Read our original press release here.

  • Price: $2999 (frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £3550
  

  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.

  • Price: £3550
  • Place of Manufacture: UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $2000
  

  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.

  • Price: $2000
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £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.

  • Price: £2900 (Frame/Fork)
  • Place of Manufacture: Dorset, UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1650
  

  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

  built in Bristol, UK, 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.

  • Weight: 11 kg (24.25 lbs)
  • Price: £1650 (700C Complete)
  • Place of Manufacture: Bristol, UK
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• £1899
  

  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. It’s available in five different sizes, in either Flat Black (£1,899) or Galvanised (£2,049).

  • Weight: 11.45 kg (25.24 lbs)
  • Price: £1899 (Darwin One By MT)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $999
  

  Van Dessel A.D.D.

  • Frame/Fork: 7005 aluminum/Carbon
  • Max Tire size: 27.5 x 2.25"
  • Bottom Bracket: PF30

  The Van Dessel A.D.D. is designed to run 700 x 25–40mm road, CX or gravel tires, or 27.5 x 2.1 MTB knobbies. There are also bosses for 3 bottle cages, eyelets for racks and fenders, full-length cable routing, and dropout options, all on a 7005 series aluminum frame.

  • Price: $999 (Frameset)
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $725
  

  Velo Orange Polyvalent

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Steel
  • Max Tire Size: 26 x 2.3" (w/fenders) / 27.5 x ?
  • Bottom Bracket: 68mm Threaded
  • Dropouts (F/R): 100/135mm QR

  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. While we are a little unsure whether it fits our criteria (27.5 x 2.1″ tire), we think it does as VO states that it clears either 650B x 47mm or 26 x 2.3” tires with fenders.

  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.

  • Price: $725 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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• $1050
  

  Veloci Jimmy

  • Frame/Fork: Steel/Carbon
  • Max Tire Size: 27.5 x 2.25″ 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 2.25″ 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.

  • Price: $1050 (Frameset)
  • Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
  • Manufacturer's Details: Link
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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. Please 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. And stay tuned for many more Gear Index lists, including the sequel to this one, 29″ Drop-bar Mountain Bikes.

Also, 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.