How to choose your next gravel bike
GRAVEL BUYERS GUIDE
We understand it could be tricky to find the right gravel bike for you so here's our ultimate gravel bike guide.
At Devinci, it’s safe to say we’ve got the gravel frenzy. For us, the call of the gravel is something special, a unique experience that resonates differently with everyone. We understand it could be tricky to find the right gravel bike for you so here's our ultimate gravel bike guide.
What is gravel riding, and why is it so damn fun and addictive? What's the hype all about?
So, what is gravel? It is a discipline that involves riding on unpaved surfaces like gravel roads, dirt paths, and sometimes even trails. Gravel bikes are designed with features that make them versatile for both rough terrain and smoother roads, often combining elements from road bikes (like lightweight frames and drop handlebars) with mountain bike characteristics (such as wider tires for better grip and stability, single-chainring drivetrains, etc). It's popular among cyclists who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path routes, scenic landscapes, and long-distance rides where the journey itself is as rewarding as the destination.
And what’s the hype about this discipline? We believe it’s fun, and what makes it addictive is the sense of adventure—riding on quiet roads with almost no cars, getting lost in the woods, and discovering hidden gems along the way. It’s the perfect blend of freedom and challenge—pushing your limits while soaking in mother nature’s beauty. Whether it’s a solo escape, a group ride with friends, or an epic endurance adventure, gravel biking offers a sense of exploration that keeps you coming back for more.
What is a gravel bike?
A gravel bike is a versatile bicycle designed to handle a mix of surfaces, from paved roads to gravel paths, dirt trails, and everything in between. It blends features from road bikes and mountain bikes, making it ideal for multiple applications such as gravel racing, adventure riding, bikepacking, and leisurely outings.
Key features of a gravel bike:
- Wider tires than road bikes – Typically between 35mm and 50mm for better traction and comfort.
- Accessory mounts – Compatible with various accessories like racks, bags, and extra bottle cages.
- Wider gear range than road bikes – Often features gearing ratios optimized for climbing efficiency
In short, gravel bikes are perfect for riders who want the speed of a road bike with the capability to explore beyond paved roads. Whether you're into gravel racing, weekend adventures, casual explorations, or just escaping traffic, these bikes are built for that purpose.
Different Gravel categories
Within the broad "gravel bike" category, there are several subcategories. You'll often hear about all-road bikes, adventure bikes, cyclocross bikes, endurance bikes, and electric gravel bikes. Other variations include bikepacking bikes, designed for long-haul exploration with extra mounts for gear, and race or performance gravel bikes, which prioritize speed and efficiency on mixed surfaces.
At Devinci, we define our gravel bike lineup into four distinct subcategories:
- Performance Gravel Bikes – Designed for speed, efficiency, and responsive riding on mixed surfaces.
- Adventure Gravel Bikes – Built with comfort in mind for exploration, fun rides, and lightweight bikepacking adventures.
- Open-Road Gravel Bikes – Versatile and fast, ideal for riders who split their time between pavement and gravel.
- Electric Gravel Bikes – Adding pedal-assist power to extend your rides and explore on the weekends.
THE DEVINCI HATCHET GRAVEL FAMILY AND THEIR INTENDED USE
OUR DIFFERENT MODELS AND THEIR MAIN FEATURES
AMBASSADOR
DOMINICK MÉNARD
Dom Ménard is a passionate cyclist. After many years as a mountain bike athlete, he turned to gravel riding and bikepacking. Former host of the show Bonvélo, he shares his expertise and passion for two-wheeled adventures. A true adventurer at heart, he has cycled an impressive distance from Victoria, BC all the way to Patagonia. With a wealth of cycling knowledge, he is a go-to resource for cycling and exploration enthusiasts.
When I returned from Patagonia, the desire to explore still burned within me. Gravel biking helped me through the transition. I love mapping out routes in my region, linking gravel roads, quiet backroads, and trails. Rediscovering my own backyard in the process. And when the call for adventure kicks in, I set off solo or with friends, packing my tent and a few bags for a weekend of bikepacking. I’ve come to realize that you don’t always need to go far to escape.
Does all this make you want to explore? Here are some of our favorite regions for gravel riding!
- Québec: The Eastern Townships are a must-ride in Quebec!
- Ontario: Check out the famous COLT Trail, the stunning Bruce Peninsula, and of course, the Guelph area, home to some of the best gravel routes in Ontario.
- Maine: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park offer incredible riding opportunities.
- Vermont: The legendary Green Mountain Gravel Growler route is a classic.
- British Columbia: Vancouver Island boasts some of the best gravel terrain in B.C.