As gravel continues to amass its rightfully earned following across the cycling industry, the Enve Mog is the latest addition to the drop-bar market. Recently, Enve made a strong foray into the  frame market with its launch of the American-made Custom Road and the massed-produced Melee. The Mog is Enve’s attempt at defining what a modern gravel bike should be. The Enve team has an extensive gravel background and there is plenty of good riding in the area so it was no surprise to see a dedicated gravel bike join Enve’s lineup.

In general, a modern gravel bike features room for wider tires, internal routing, a threaded bottom bracket, 1x/2x drivetrain compatibility and compliant, easy-to-control handling characteristics. On paper, the Mog checks all of the boxes. Enve claims there is clearance for up to 700x50mm tires and applies each of the above designs we like to see on new bikes.

Much like the Melee, all of the testing and design was based out of Enve’s HQ in Ogden, Utah while the production takes place at Enve factories in China. The frame’s layup features various laminates of unidirectional carbon fibers derived using Enve’s Material Optimized Design (M.O.D.). “In simple terms, Material Optimized Design means designing and manufacturing products that play to the strengths of carbon fiber. The materials, fiber weights, and fiber angles used in the laminate are selected and manipulated to achieve zone specific performance within the part. Carbon is the key ingredient, and we use the best we can get our hands on, but ultimately the process it is subjected to makes it an Enve product,” stated Jake Pantone VP of Product and Brand.

As we have come to expect from Enve there are no complete builds offered, rather the Mog is available as a “Chassis Only” which includes the frame, fork, headset, handlebar, stem, and seat post. During the ordering process via an Enve dealer a selection of bar, stem and seatpost options and sizes can be customized to ensure a proper fit.

“Because we ride and race our gravel bikes across such a variety of surfaces and conditions that range from extremely rough to silky smooth, we put a lot of focus into ensuring the Mog’s geometry and design delivered a balanced, confident ride in every environment. Knowing that there is a broad range in how people are using their gravel bikes, varying from racing to adventure riding, or a combination of the two, it was also important for us to offer a range of component options that allow each rider to tailor the Mog to their needs through handlebar and seat post options” stated Enve Marketing Manager, Neil Shirley.

Anyone unsure of which size stem or bar to choose can use Enve’s Best-Fit Calculator. It’s a new tool available on the Enve website that utilizes the rider’s desired stack, reach, and saddle position to determine the ideal frame size, stem length, spacer stack, and seatpost offset combination.

“Your bike needs to be an extension of your body and we want people to achieve that seamless feel from the first pedal stroke. Our calculator aims to simplify the fitment process for the fitter and customer alike. The calculator functions simply by pairing a rider’s fit stack, fit reach, and saddle position numbers with a frame geometry, stem length, stem rise, spacer stack, and saddle offset. The output provides the rider with several frame and component configuration options that the rider, along with their fitter, can analyze to determine the rider’s “best-fit” option,” stated Pantone.

There are six sizes sizes (49-60cm) available of the Mog. For now only a single colorway of the Mog is offered but Enve provides the option to select a personalized decal kit which includes stickers for the head tube, stem, down tube, and seat tube.

We’re looking forward to riding the Mog soon, check back for a full review.

FRAME DETAILS

• Carbon construction
• Internal routing
• Tuned geometry for 700c wheels and tires
• 1x or 2x drivetrain compatibility
• Threaded T47 bottom bracket
• Enve Cargo Box and Bags (in-frame storage)
• Dropper post compatibility
• Fender mounts
• On-frame storage/rack mounts
• Tire clearance for 700x50mm

STATS

Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60cm

MOG Chassis Price: US $5,500/ €5,995/ £5,500/ AUD $9,999

Website: www.enve.com

ENVE MOG GEOMETRY DETAILS

The post NEW! ENVE MOG GRAVEL BIKE appeared first on Road Bike Action.

By Neil Shirley

The First Annual Rock Cobbler was held Sunday February 9^th in Bakersfield, California and organized by Sam Barn who has promoted a range of cycling  events (cyclocross, road, and mountain bike). ‘The Rock Cobbler came about while on a ride roughly two years ago when a cycling friend and I were throwing out ideas for big, epic road rides. I took it in the direction of a form of gravel grinder meets cyclocross, meets adventure race and we literally hatched the route and details over beers one day and it just went from there’, said promoter Sam Ames.

For the inaugural year, The Rock Cobbler was kept small, limited to 100 riders in order to make sure the kinks were worked out before opening it up to the hundreds of would-be racers. ‘We have 14 pages of notes with ideas, routes and more madness we would like to unleash. The crew of volunteers I get to assemble is unbelievable. Any promoter knows that without his crew the ideas and the execution are not possible. The response we got for the first Rock Cobbler was overwhelmingly positive. The vibe was so good and that’s truly what we love’, said Ames.

NEIL SHIRLEY AND THE ROCK C0BBLER

THE ROCK COBBLER BIKE SETUP

The post THROWBACK THURSDAY, 2014: ROCKIN’ THE ROCK COBBLER GRAVEL RACE appeared first on Road Bike Action.

The Belgian Waffle Ride in Cedar City, Utah was the latest off-road race for our resident gravel traveler John Perry. So far this season his race schedule includes:  Unbound  Gravel,  SBT Gravel , and  a host of smaller gravel events in Colorado and New Mexico. And now  with BWR  Utah in the rear-view-mirror he’s gearing up for the LifeTime Grand Prix finale in Bentonville, Arkansas on a new RBA project bike.

In the midst of his racing and pre-riding duties in Utah, JP was kind enough to snap off a few photos of  a handful of BWR gravel bikes.

THE BIKES OF BWR CEDAR CITY

The post BEING THERE: BELGIAN WAFFLE RIDE BIKE GALLERY appeared first on Road Bike Action.

Why would one more bicycle brand decide to enter a market seemingly saturated with every type of bike you could ever hope to find? When Why Cycles launched late last summer, there was a clear reason why the Utah-based company decided one more brand was needed. Of their three models, just one is aimed at the road market, and in Why’s book, the road market has some very fuzzy lines.

The R+, or Road Plus, is the antithesis of where most road bikes were just a few years ago and where some currently still are. When you think of an aero road bike, it’s specific to a purpose, and that’s just not the case with the R+. That could be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on what you prioritize in a bike. If a bike that offers wide-range versatility is something of interest, then read on, because the Road+ has a whole lot of it.

THE FRAME

Where the “+” comes into the name is that the 3/2.5 titanium frame is designed around plus-size tires, which simply means that besides standard 25mm tires, you can run fat rubber up to 44mm in width. Still want to go bigger? Then you can also mount a 2.1 mountain bike tire on 650b wheels. Achieving that kind of tire clearance means that some very shapely tubes are used on the seat tube, chainstays and seatstays in order to achieve the 42cm chainstay length that’s respectably short for a frame with so much tire clearance.

As impressive as the tube shaping is in the rear end, there’s more. The downtube goes from round to a flatter profile where it meets the bottom bracket shell in order to better reduce torsional flex. In order to keep those titanium tubes tidy-looking, the R+ has internal cable routing throughout, which also allows the bead-blasted artistic detailing on the frame in various places to remain uncluttered in appearance.

Adding to the frame’s versatility and utilitarianism, a third bottle-cage mount is added on the underside of the downtube. Rear rack and fender mounts are also added, although making the seatstay rack braze-ons a little less noticeable would have been preferred. And, of course, disc brakes are standard on the R+, as is a 12x142mm rear thru-axle. Our test bike had an Enve CX fork, which also featured a 12mm thru-axle.

THE PARTS

Why Cycles sells the R+ in a number of options that range from frame only for $2050, with an Enve fork for $2549 or with a Lauf suspension fork for $2749. It’s also offered in two build options—the SRAM Rival kit for $4199 and the SRAM Force kit for $5899, which is what we tested.

The Force kit is nearly a dream-bike build in our book, which says a lot for a bike that’s sub-$6000. First off, the SRAM Force 1x group is a favorite of ours, since it adds so much simplicity to a bike. An Easton cockpit isn’t something we have seen much of lately, but since the EC70 carbon bars had a comfortable bend and the EC70 SL seatpost didn’t slip, we had zero complaints. There’s also the ability to run a mountain bike-style dropper seatpost with an internally routed cable if that suits your fancy, but we weren’t quite ready to go that route just yet.

The most notable parts of the build that, in our opinion, give it added-value status are the Knight carbon rims with Project 321 hubs. That’s a very high-end wheelset for the price, and once the tubeless, 40mm-wide Maxxis Rambler tires are added in, it goes up another notch. There’s no doubt that Why Cycles is delivering a lot of bike for the money, but it’s also of note that they have a consumer-direct business model, so taking one for a test ride from your local shop isn’t an option.

A more surprising addition for those who buy a complete bike is that you’ll receive it in an EVOC Pro travel bag. The bag alone would retail for over $500 and allows Why Cycles to ship the bike with nothing more needed for assembly than putting on the wheels and the handlebar. If you ever have to ship or fly with the bike, then the case is truly an added value.

THE RIDE

The trend for greater road bike versatility isn’t something we see as just marketing jargon, considering we’ve been preaching the very same thing for the past five years, so we applaud the arrival of Why Cycles and their R+. Out on the road, or dirt road to be more specific, there’s nothing to be left wanting, considering the large-volume tires and titanium frame adequately snuff out the vibrations. A long front-center and fork rake make it anything but twitchy up front and easy to ride hands-free while digging around for the bar in your jersey pocket.

Granted, the very things that make it a Dirty Kanza dream bike are the very things that go against it for those who might want a bike that can also double as their group-ride roadie. In comparison to a straight-up road bike, turning is labor-intensive due to the frame’s long (105cm wheelbase). A rider wanting a more relaxed ride on the road than what an endurance road bike delivers wouldn’t be disappointed in what the R+ brings.

THE VERDICT

As a gravel bike that can take on nearly anything, the R+ is a bike that should be highly considered by those looking at the ever-popular Open U.P. that has become the go-to gravel design. Of special note is the titanium construction of the R+ that is going to be far more impact-resistant than a carbon frame, which has to be a consideration for off-road use.

For riders less concerned with tire clearance for more than a 35mm tire and plan to spend a large portion of their riding time on the pavement, there are other options out there that will deliver quicker handling than the R+, if indeed that’s what you want.

PUNCH LINES

• Impressive parts spec for the money
• Not your next road bike
• More than enough tire clearance

STATS
Price: $5899
Weight: 18.3 pounds
Sizes: S, M (tested), L, XL

www.whycycles.com

THE GEAR

• Helmet: SH+ Shot
• Jersey: Club Ride Black Top
• Bibs/Short: Club Ride Mountain Surf Short
• Shoes: Giro Empire
• Glasses: Ride 100% Speedcoupe
• Gloves: Cadence Collection Minimalist

The post THROWBACK THURSDAY BIKE TEST, 2017: WHY CYCLES R+ appeared first on Road Bike Action.

Take a look at some of the best gravel bikes we’ve ridden, tested and seen for 2022. We’ve listed some of our best riding, buying and window shopping tips for the latest gravel bike tech below. Whether it’s a sub-$3000 entry-level bike or something truly exotic see what gravel bikes you can start getting dirty.

WHAT MAKES A GRAVEL BIKE?

First and foremost, it starts with a frame that can accommodate anywhere from 38mm to 50mm tires. (So, don’t let anyone tell you a cyclocross bike that is bound by 33mm tires is a gravel bike!) After that, wider handlebars, different geometry, and now even suspension and dropper posts are all trending aspects of gravel. 

This might sound like a mountain bike to some, but trust us, gravel has more in common with pure, paved road bikes than modern mountain bikes. For us, the dual-purpose versatility to ride on paved or unpaved roads is what makes them a great option for many cyclists. Gravel bikes also tend to have a more stable geometry that is also good for entry-level riders.

Just as it’s proven true with road bikes, the larger treaded tires also offer more traction, which is never a bad thing. Look for a bike that offers more tire clearance than you predict you will need, as you will also need room for mud and debris if the adventure gets extra eventful. 

Gravel (and their kissing cousin, cyclocross) bikes often get lumped together because both are suited for non-paved roads. However, cyclocross bikes really prioritize racing with a priority of speed and quick handling (with less tire clearance), while gravel puts compliance and tire clearance on the top step. As such, ’cross bikes are more race-oriented in build spec and geometry.

LIKES AND DISLIKES

Like all things bike-related, personal choice is what’s best to rely on for picking and choosing your new bike and components. At this stage we can say that we aren’t on board with the super-flared and wide handlebars. Sure, they may be trendy, and they do offer an advantage in some circumstances in the dirt, but on the road, they feel far too awkward. For us, a slight flare in the drop is acceptable, but many gravel bars are getting bumped out 4–8cm at the hoods, with the drops placed at an even wider gap. 

Gravel has also encouraged many to push the limits on what a drop-bar bike is capable of. This has led to further adaptation and borrowed tech from the mountain world, like dropper posts and suspension forks. Since gravel bikes follow the footsteps of road bikes, most come with 27.2mm seatposts, which means that they don’t fit the larger mountain bike dropper posts. But never fear, there is now an entire segment of gravel dropper posts. 

Suspension is the other category that has been hitting the gravel segment with the newfound ideas of perceived need. And depending on how and where you ride, a suspension fork could make all the difference in the world, but remember that the added front-end weight will affect the ride. For most gravel riders, it’s the high-volume tires that will definitely bring the most trouble-free type of suspension.

Lauf was one of the first brands to introduce a gravel specific fork with their unique leading link fork that provided

30mm of travel. Fox, X-fusion and Rockshox have also hit the market with suspension forks that closely resemble their mountain bike offerings, only with less travel (40-50mm) and fitment for 12mm thru axles as well
as compatibility with flat-mount brake calipers.

THE GEARS

The biggest talking point for gravel bikes are the many drivetrain options. While 1x cranks have been embraced as a “gravel drivetrain,” for many riders, having the wider capabilities of a 2x remains the better option. But, of equal note is the variety of wide-range, gravel-friendly cassettes, which can vary in gear spreads from 11-34 to 9-42 and 10-52. Key to this discussion, too, is where you live and what kind of riding you do. 

If you’re taking our advice, we would say that if climbing is part of your regular routine, it’s important to have a minimum 1:1 gear ratio—and we’d usually recommend an even lower gear. This is because making steep climbs in the dirt is often harder than doing so on the road. Not only do you have less momentum leading into a climb, but there’s also the added rotational weight and rolling resistance of the larger tires that help slow things down. 

FRAMES, WHEELS & TIRE PRESSURE

Just like road bikes, gravel bikes come in all different frame materials, with carbon fiber being the choice for performance-oriented riders. Aluminum is popular for those that are on a budget and want to test the water before diving in. The true underdogs (in terms of marketing) are steel and titanium. Not only do they have good ride characteristics, thanks to their material, but they are unbeatable when it comes to durability, and that’s something many want when on an epic adventure. 

In order to fit larger tires, gravel bikes have slightly longer chainstays, which make the back end of the bikes longer. Gravel bikes also tend to have slacker head tubes when compared to road bikes. This all adds up to a longer wheelbase to provide added stability at higher speeds over loose, bumpy ground. 

We talked about tire size when it comes to frame design, but tires themselves are continuing to expand. The number-one thing that everyone riding gravel should adopt is tubeless tires. Simply put, they make all the difference in the world when it comes to fighting flat tires, which are definitely more frequent in the dirt. 

There are two main wheel sizes—650b, which are normally intended to run larger (mountain bike size) tires, and the more common 700c (aka 29er) that spans the entire range of sizes. Larger tires mean more air volume, which leads to needing less pressure (usually in the 20–50-psi range). These lower pressure settings can add compliance but, more important, traction is always an advantage in the dirt. 

Last but not least, before picking out a new gravel bike, think of how you are going to use it. Like everything else, the gravel segment is now home to a handful of subcategories. There are bikes designed for racing and touring, each of which often dictates the component and accessory selection spec’d. 

The more adventure-oriented bikes have a more utilitarian orientation and normally have at least three bottle-cage mounts, as well as countless other eyelets for bags and such. One of our favorite bag locations is the top tube, where we store easy-to-grab snacks so we don’t have to reach in our pockets while on rough roads. 

At the end of the day, gravel bikes have greatly expanded the available route options and can offer a new adventure or challenge to those that have years of road experience. And, that’s a good thing.

As we all know, for the first few decades of the Tour de France (and likely most other road races at the time) a preponderance of the races actually took place not on paved surfaces but dirt, aka gravel. And recently, as I was replying to another gravel critic complaining about our enthusiasm for gravel, the thought occurred to me: do you think cyclists in the ’40s and ’50s were as much up in arms about the growing emphasis of paved road riding as so many of today’s gravel critics have been to the experience and technology aimed at multi-surface riding?!

As it is each year when we put together our annual “Gravel”  buyer’s guide, the sheer obviousness of just how big this still maligned stepchild of road riding has gotten just leaves me amused. For many years we’ve taken the slings and arrows of those who said gravel riding was not a “real” sport, that the bikes were an abomination, that the sport would never catch on, and, best of all, that it had no place in the pages of Road Bike Action.

Sure, this site’s title points to the pavement, but, as we’ve argued before, specific nomenclature notwithstanding, it’s not like Road & Track Magazine had to change their name when they embraced the comeuppance of the SUV market and began including them in their pages.

THE BEST 2022 GRAVEL BIKES

And really, as if a newly recognized UCI gravel rainbow jersey race wasn’t enough validation in addition to the growing inclusion of gravel sectors in road races, what better evidence that gravel riding has been fully embraced (consumed) by the traditional road world than to see so many legacy road bike brands like Pinarello, Ridley, Colnago and Campagnolo all finding their own padded seat for a ride on the gravel bike bandwagon?! Here’s the big collection of 2022 dual-purpose bikes that we rounded up.

RODEO LABS FLAANIMAL 5.0 TITANIUM

From one of the more progressive bike brands today, the Flaanimal Ti is the upgraded sibling to the successful steel Flanimal ($1550 frameset). The titanium frame sells for $3050, with Shimano and SRAM drivetrain options. A complete bike with a Campagnolo Ekar drivetrain goes for $4056. The Cerakote finish adds $400. Six sizes are available, and the frame is dropper-post-friendly.

Price: $4056
www.rodeo-labs.com

KONA LIBRE

When it comes to picking a gravel bike, Kona makes it clear that the Libre is ready for some serious adventure. The Libre is definitely dirt-oriented with its SRAM 1x Apex drivetrain and wide drop bars. The Apex build keeps the price down, and the aluminum frame is available in five sizes.

Price: $2099
www.konabikes.com

PIVOT VAULT

Pivot converted their Vault cyclocross bike to better meet the demands of gravel riding. Wide clearance for up to 700x47mm tires and designed compliance features like the Isoflex seatpost sheath make the Vault frame a proper platform to tackle rough roads. The Vault is available in five sizes.

Price: $7599
www.pivotcycles.com

SAGE STORM KING

Boutique titanium brand Sage has long hosted a swathe of gravel offerings in its catalog. The Storm King is on the extreme end with clearance for up to 700x50mm rubber while maintaining a traditional titanium aesthetic. Those looking to venture onto more aggressive roads can look for the suspension-corrected Storm King GP and build it up with a Rockshox Rudy gravel fork.

Price: $4300 (frameset)
www.sagetitanium.com

NINER RLT 9 ALLOY

Niner’s RLT 9 lineup consists of three versions—carbon (RDO), steel and alloy. All three are offered in 650b or 700c builds with their carbon fork paired with all models. The alloy frame is the balance between price, performance and weight, but most impressive is that Niner tests all their bikes to the more demanding test standards that mountain bikes require.

Price: $2899
www.ninerbikes.com

TURNER TITANIUM

Long-time mountain bike and cyclocross enthusiast (and now avid gravel racer) David Turner has combined his two favorite pastimes with the present in the design of his titanium gravel frameset. From the machined head tube to the internal cable routing and added bottle mounts, artful features abound. The value-oriented price includes the carbon fork.

Price: $2695 (frame and fork)
www.turnerbikes.com

RITTE SATYR

Ritte’s Satyr blends road and off-road performance just like the mythical creature it’s named after. Smart spec like the T47 bottom bracket, Enve fork and Hunt 4 Seasons wheels prove the crew at Ritte know how to provide value to the consumer without compromising performance. The SRAM mullet build and clearance for 43mm tires keep the bike capable over a wide array of gravel.

Price: $5250
www.ritte.cc

PINARELLO GREVIL

Visually, it’s hard to mistake the Grevil for anything other than a finely crafted carbon gravel bike from legacy Italian bike maker Pinarello. The Grevil uses swooping tube shapes throughout its construction, and Pinarello’s decision to spec 650b wheels and tires are highlights of the design. Of course, Pinarello offers a Campagnolo Ekar build, as well as SRAM, Shimano and two e-bike versions.

Price: $5750
www.pinarello.com

FRANCO GRIMES

The SoCal brand offers their 50/50 gravel bike in five sizes, three colors and your choice of either Shimano or SRAM drivetrains (mechanical or electronic). Thanks to the dropped chainstay design, the frame has room to run up to 45mm tires.

Price: $6250
www.francobicycles.com

RIDLEY KANZO FAST

Coming out of Belgium, Ridley’s racing-inspired gravel bike brings a handful of healthy gravel features to the table. An assortment of colorways and customization options make the Kanzo Fast a worthwhile consideration for a personalized ride. Clearance for up to 700x42mm tires and tall stock gears emulate its flatland European birthplace. Ridley also offers the Kanzo Adventure and the Kanzo All Road as lower price-point gateways to gravel.

Price: $7620
www.ridley-bikes.com

COLNAGO G3-X

From one of Italy’s most venerable road bike brands comes the G3-X gravel bike that celebrates its heritage with an Italian spec that includes a Campagnolo Ekar drivetrain and Shamal wheels, Deda components, and Vittoria tires. Ridden to victory at last year’s Unbound 200 by Lauren De Crescenzo, the frame has internal routing, a bash guard and room for 42mm tires. Available in five sizes and two colors.

Price: $5000
www.colnago.com

3T RACEMAX

When it comes to going fast off-road, the Gerard Vroomen-designed Race Max is ready to answer the call, thanks to a carbon frame that has been aero optimized in every way possible. Available as a frameset ($3500) or a complete bike, the Campagnolo Ekar spec’d bike rolls on Fulcrum 650b wheels to lay down as fat a tread as possible.

Price: $5999
www.3t.bike

LITESPEED ULTIMATE GRAVEL

Litespeed’s Ultimate Gravel blends weight, stiffness and aerodynamics for a speed-oriented gravel bike with a classic titanium aesthetic and ride quality. Frames are available starting at $2565, and a Shimano GRX 1x build starts at $4095.

Price: $4095
www.litespeed.com

LAUF TRUE GRIT RACE

Along with their proprietary suspension fork, the True Grit is also built with their special glass-fiber-integrated carbon handlebars to bring even more compliance. The bike is sold in four builds, ranging from $2790 to $6590, and is now available in sizes XS to XL.

Price: $3590

www.laufcycling.com

BIANCHI ARCADEX

The Arcadex marks Bianchi’s first official leap into the gravel world. Built with Shimano’s gravel-specific GRX 800 drivetrain, the Arcadex rolls on alloy Alex hoops with room for up to a 42mm tire. There is also a ($200) lower-priced version that uses a Shimano GRX 600 drivetrain.

Price: $3600

www.bianchi.com

FIFTYONE ASSASSIN

The famed Irish road bike brand FiftyOne is now gravel-ready with the new Assassin that has clearance for up to 47mm tires. The frame is dropper-post compatible and features front and rear flip chips to adjust geometry for either 700c or 650b wheels with rack and fender mounts. It comes in nine models in four sizes with your choice of Shimano, Campagnolo or SRAM drivetrain.

Price: $3870
www.fiftyonebikes.com

OTSO WARAKIN TI

Unique with the Warakin Ti is the Tuning Chip rear dropout, which can lengthen or shorten the wheelbase by up to 20mm and raise or lower the bottom bracket by up to 4mm. Complete builds with Shimano GRX start at $4250, with the frame/fork going for $3055.

Price: $5850
www.otsocycles.com

KONA ROVE AL 650

The Rove AL 650 starts the five-bike Rove family of gravel bikes at just under $1000. The aluminum frame is built with a 2x drivetrain for added versatility and rolls on 650b WTB wheels. The Rove lineup is pocketbook-friendly with a top priced spec at $2599. Choose between 1x and 2x builds, alloy or steel frames, as well as 700c and 650b wheel options.

Price: $999

www.konaworld.com

LITESPEED WATIA

Litespeed’s Watia blends performance and endurance geometries for a well-rounded gravel bike with a classic titanium aesthetic and ride quality. Frames are available starting at $2115 for an externally routed option with the most expensive build, topping out around $6500.

Price: $6485

www.litespeed.com 

CANNONDALE SUPERSIX EVO SE

Not to be confused with the new SuperSix Evo CX cyclocross bike, the SE is a gravel race bike. The SE ships with a 2x SRAM Rival AXS drivetrain that is speed-oriented but still features a better than 1:1 ratio, thanks to the 46/33 crank matched with the 10-36t 12-speed cassette.

Price: $5000

www.cannondale.com

SCOTT ADDICT GRAVEL

Scott is continuing to merge race-oriented aerodynamic designs into their gravel line with airfoil tube shapes and lowered seatstays. There are three Addict Gravel models with Shimano and SRAM components, as well as a women’s-specific Contessa Addict gravel bike. The builds range in price from $3000 to $8500.

Price: $5699

www.scott-sports.com

CIPOLLINI ALL-ROAD

With a hint of gravel potential, the All-Road is built with T800 carbon tubes with lugged joints. Available in five sizes with customizable geometry and finishes through the MyCipo personalized paint program.

Price: $4390 (frameset)

www.mcipollini.com

CANYON GRIZL

The Grizl is offered in SL and SLX carbon options, and they ship with large 45mm tires. The frame leaves room for up to 50mm tires, and this makes it a great option for the racer or the adventurer. Canyon is even offering a build with the new RockShox Rudy Ultimate suspension fork and 1x gravel-specific SRAM AXS XPLR groupset.

Price: $4999

www.canyon.com 

OPEN U.P.

The Gerard Vroomen-designed Open U.P. is the bike that popularized the dropped-chainstay frame design. With clearance for up to 40mm tires, the $3000 U.P. frame has been a trend starter and remains a top gravel choice. There are two models available with the $4500 U.P.P.E.R. frame weighing 180 grams less. Complete bikes are available with a Campy Ekar drivetrain and HED wheels.

Price: $5900
www.opencycle.com

FELT BROAM 60

The Felt Broam is intended for the bike-packing crowd, endurance riders, and anyone looking for a great riding bike with massive tire clearance and room for bags and fenders. The 60 is the most affordable option, offering plenty of bang for the buck. Disc brakes and 2x drivetrain make it a perfect all-road option for those looking for new routes.

Price: $1249

www.feltbicycles.com

SPECIALIZED CRUX PRO

Long the cyclocross go-to for Specialized, the all-new 2021 Crux has now morphed into a more gravel-friendly bike. Available with both 1x and 2x drivetrains and 38mm tires, but there is room for up to 47mm, so while the Crux is more gravel than ever, it remains their race option for CX or gravel.

Price: $8000                                               

www.specialized.com

OBED GVR

Just like other Obed models, the GVR we tested comes in with a value-driven price tag of $5,275 for a bike that needs no upgrades. Impressive given its desirable Shimano GRX spec and upgraded HED Vanquish RC4 wheelset that added $1175 over the stock Sun Charger wheels. The GVR base build starts at $3,795.

Price: $5275

www.obedbikes.com

LOOK 765 GRAVEL RS

The famous French road brand Look has jumped into the new dual-purpose bike category with the 765 Gravel RS that’s available at four price points and unique colorways. The carbon frame has been tuned with a specific layup for gravel, and also features asymmetric chainstays.

Price: $6200

www.lookcycle.com

The post 28 BEST GRAVEL BIKES OF 2022 appeared first on Road Bike Action.

Press Release

The 25 CGR is a lightweight race-focused hookless gravel wheelset built to offer versatility for the harshest and steepest days. The Hunt 40 CGR is a lightweight race-focused hookless gravel wheelset built to offer speed on the very fastest courses. The wide, asymmetric rim profile on the 25 Carbon Gravel Race Disc offers compliance and impact resistance for rough, technical courses. The 40 Carbon Gravel Race Disc offers lateral responsiveness and an aerodynamic profile. There is a 25mm (40 CGR) /26mm (25 CGR) internal hookless rim, designed for 28mm+/35mm+ tubeless tires. All-new Sprint SL hub shell is made from 6066 aluminum alloy, offering a greater strength-to-weight ratio than other alloys. High-grade, precision sealed cartridge bearings by EZO Japan.

Purpose and Rider Benefit

HUNT Bike Wheels, an industry-leading wheel company committed to serving devoted riders, will announce on June 8th, 2022, the HUNT 25 Carbon Gravel Race Disc & 40 Carbon Gravel Race Disc wheelsets. These race-focused wheelsets are the newest additions to the HUNT Gravel Race range and feature our SPRINT SL hub with a hookless/straight side-wall rim, designed to provide the lowest possible weight while maintaining strength and reliability.

As early adopters of tubeless technology, pioneers in aerodynamic disc brake wheel design, and supporters (and employers) of exceptional athletes such as Josh Ibbett (2020 GB Duro Winner & 2015 Trans-Continental winner), HUNT launched the world’s first dedicated gravel wheelset, the 4 Season Gravel Disc, in 2016 and has remained focused on gravel riding and product development ever since.

These wheelsets were built by HUNT to provide lightweight race-level performance for fast gravel riding or racing, with marquee gravel events in mind, such as SBT GRVL, Dirty Reiver, Rule of Three, and Unbound. HUNT laced wide, tubeless, ETRTO-compliant hookless rims to reliable and fast-engaging Sprint SL hubs to create lightweight gravel-specific wheel systems ready to go fast and far, whether in a race or on an adventure.

HUNT 25 Carbon Gravel Race Rider Benefits

The HUNT 25 Carbon Gravel Race offers durability and control when you need it the most. The asymmetric rim profile has been designed with compliance and impact resistance top of mind so riders worry less when hitting rough roads and singletrack.

HUNT 40 Carbon Gravel Race Rider Benefits

Built to provide lateral responsiveness and an aero profile in a lightweight package, the HUNT 40 Carbon Gravel Race is designed to meet the needs of the gravel racer and rider. Wide and lightweight 40mm-deep hookless rims offer durability, quick acceleration and aerodynamic efficiency, intended for use with modern-width gravel race tires.

Hookless Rim Design

HUNT has been developing hookless road rims since 2016, seeking ways to reduce weight and improve performance for riders. With the 25 & 40 Carbon Gravel Race Disc rim development, we were able to push those weight savings further, bringing the final rim weights to a mere 385g and 395g respectively. Due to a simpler manufacturing process, hookless rims can be produced with less waste, resulting in a cost reduction that can be passed on to riders.

Hookless rim profiles also enable a smoother transition of airflow between the tire and the rim, and therefore reduce the wake behind the rim, resulting in lower system drag. The aerodynamic benefits are marginal, but they’re real.

The 25 Carbon Gravel Race Disc wheelset features a fully ETRTO-compliant hookless rim profile (26mm internal) compatible with 35-65mm gravel tires. The 40 Carbon Gravel Race Disc wheelset also features a fully ETRTO-compliant hookless rim profile (25mm internal) compatible with 28-65mm tires. Maximum tire pressure shall not exceed 72.5psi (5bar) for both wheelsets.

Key Specs

• DIMENSIONS 25 Carbon Gravel Race: 25mm Deep | 33mm External | 26mm Internal
• DIMENSIONS 40 Carbon Gravel Race: 40mm Deep | 30mm External | 25mm Internal
• WEIGHT 25 Carbon Gravel Race:1380g
• WEIGHT 40 Carbon Gravel Race: 1383g
• HUBS: Sprint SL 7.5 Hub, with an engagement rate of 7.5°. Multi-point pawls, with 48 ratchets within the hub shell. Centre-Lock disc mount.
• SPOKES: Pillar Spoke Re-enforcement PSR XTRA
• BEARINGS: EZO Japan
• TIRE COMPATIBILITY: Tubeless tires only. Consult with tire manufacturer guidelines for hookless compatibility.
• FREEHUB OPTIONS: Shimano/SRAM 8/9/10/11 speed, SRAM XD/XDR, Campagnolo 8/9/10/11/12 speed, Campagnolo EKAR

Price & Availability

25 Carbon Gravel Race: $1139
40 Carbon Gravel Race: $1159

The HUNT 25 Carbon Gravel Race and HUNT 40 Carbon Gravel Race wheelsets are available now to pre-order at www.huntbikewheels.com, with the HUNT 25 Carbon Gravel Race Disc shipping to riders July Week 2, and HUNT 40 Carbon Gravel Race Disc shipping to riders August Week 3.

How do these wheelsets differ from the HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel Disc wheelset?

“The HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel Disc wheelset utilizes HUNT’s patented LIMITLESS construction method to create an ultra-wide external rim diameter (36mm) that provides wind tunnel-proven, industry-leading aerodynamic performance when paired with modern wide gravel tires (38mm). HUNT 42 Limitless Gravel Disc wheelset features hooked rims, while the new 40 and 25 Carbon Gravel Race Disc wheelsets feature hookless rims to reduce weight.”

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Garmin has been one of the top contenders in the cycling computer realm for a very long time. Who remembers the Edge 205 and 305 from 2005? A lot has changed in nearly 20 years. Back in 2020, Garmin released one of their multisport watches, the Fenix 6 Pro Solar that added, you guessed it solar charging. Since then it has only been a matter of time before we would see this technology bleed into the Edge product line.

This current offering won’t comply sustain itself for regular rides, it does however extend the ride time. In the perfect conditions and in battery saver mode Garmin claims you get an additional 42 minutes per hour during daytime riding. For an event like Unbound 200 or XL, that could be a game-changer. Just ask David, whose battery died this year and left him without a course to follow. Garmin is also offering a version without solar, these two new units replace the Edge 1030 and 1030 plus.

From Garmin

Garmin has announced the Edge 1040 Solar, the ultimate GPS bike computer featuring solar charging and multi-band GNSS technology. Harnessing the power of the sun, the Edge 1040 Solar features a Power Glass solar charging lens, giving cyclists even more ride time between charges – up to 100 hours in battery saver mode – while multi-band GNSS technology provides more accurate GPS positioning in challenging ride environments, such as dense urban areas or under deep tree cover. Packed with state-of-the-art navigation, performance, safety and connectivity features, the Edge 1040 Solar boasts a completely refreshed, modernized user experience, giving cyclists easier access to key information, the ability to customize the home page, an improved ride summary view and more – all in a 3.5-inch touchscreen display.

“Cyclists expect as much from their GPS bike computer as they do themselves, and that is why we are thrilled to introduce the Edge 1040 Solar,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Durable, accurate and ready to go the distance, the Edge 1040 Solar is the pinnacle of GPS bike computers. No matter where you ride, or what bike you choose to use, the Edge 1040 Solar is ready for any adventure – from remote gravel trails to epic climbs.”

What’s new

Designed for cyclists, by cyclists, the Edge 1040 Solar features innovative advancements in technology and performance metrics, including:

• Solar charging: Power Glass solar charging lens extends the battery life to up to 100 hours in battery saver mode, giving cyclists an additional 42 minutes per hour during daytime riding.
• Multi-band GNSS technology: Receive better positional accuracy and coverage, even in the most challenging environments.
• Cycling ability2 and course demands: Classify strengths and weaknesses as a cyclist, focus on improvement and prepare for the demands of a specific course.
• Power guide: Recommended power targets make it easier to manage efforts throughout a course.
• Real-time stamina insights: Monitor and track exertion levels in real-time during a ride.
• Simple setup: Custom ride profiles prepopulate based on previous Edge data, ride types, and sensors. From there, cycling activity profiles can be managed directly on your compatible smartphone from the Garmin Connect smart device app.

Training and performance

To help cyclists boost their performance, the Edge 1040 Solar provides insights from Firstbeat Analytics such as VO2 max, recovery time, training load, training focus and more to see how their body is responding to their training efforts.2 They will even get daily workout suggestions based on their current training load and VO2 max. During a ride, the Edge 1040 Solar lets riders see how their body is holding up in different environments with heat and altitude acclimation and receive in-ride notifications when it’s time to refuel or rehydrate. What’s more, ClimbPro lets riders see the remaining ascent and grade for each climb when following a course and review their performance on the climbs post-ride right from the Edge 1040 Solar or in Garmin Connect. Meanwhile, mountain bike metrics, including jump count, jump distance, hang time, grit and flow track the epic details of every ride.

Whether cycling indoors or outdoors, cyclists can sync workouts automatically from Garmin Connect or other training apps, including TrainingPeaks, right to the Edge 1040 Solar.

Maps and routes

Whether riding through busy cities or exploring remote areas, the Edge 1040 Solar includes advanced navigational tools to help cyclists stay on track.

• High-contrast, ride-type-specific maps use Trendline popularity routing to highlight popular roads and trails based on billions of miles of ride data that other users have uploaded to Garmin Connect.
• Turn-by-turn navigation and alerts notify riders of sharp curves ahead.
• Pause route guidance and off-course notifications to explore beyond the beaten path. Route guidance can be turned back on at any time to get back to the original route or starting point.
• Download the recommended Trailforks app to view routes and trail details from more than 80 countries. When using the Trailforks app, Forksight mode automatically displays upcoming forks in the route and where a rider is within a trail network.

Safety and connectivity

While out for a ride, Garmin’s safety and smart features help cyclists stay connected.3 Built-in safety and tracking features include incident detection, assistance and LiveTrack to let loved ones follow a cyclists’ real-time location and view their entire preplanned course to see where they’re headed, while group messaging and tracking let cyclists stay in touch when they get separated from the pack.3 For added confidence while riding, the Edge 1040 Solar is compatible with the Varia line of cycling awareness devices, including the new Varia RCT715 rearview radar with camera and tail light, so cyclists can see, be seen and continuously capture video footage during their ride.4 The Edge 1040 Solar also works with inReach devices4 so cyclists can view and reply to messages, share trip data and trigger interactive SOS alerts with an active inReach subscription.

In addition to receiving smart notifications and automatically uploading rides to Garmin Connect, the Edge 1040 Solar easily pairs with a Tacx indoor trainer, so cyclists can ride whenever they want. When connected to sensors, cyclists can keep track of the battery status of their sensors with post-ride reporting directly on the Edge 1040 Solar and battery alert messages between rides through the Garmin Connect smart device app.

After powering the Edge 1040 Solar on for the first time, cyclists can ride in moments instead of wasting time configuring settings. Riders will receive prepopulated custom ride profiles based on their previous Edge settings, while new users will automatically receive the most popular setups from other users based on their sensors and ride types. Once set up, cyclists can define all activity profile settings through the Garmin Connect smart device app and sync them directly to the Edge 1040 Solar.

Price and availability

Edge 1040 Solar $749.99
Edge 1040 non-solar charging version $599.99
Garmin says the units are available now.

For more info head to www.garmin.com

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John Perry is an old friend from my motocross days who has made an enthusiastic leap into the world of gravel racing. He’s finished the 200-miler in Emporia twice, raced the Gravel Worlds as well as a handful of other smaller gravel races. Thanks to our friends at Lifetime, RBA was able to get two entries to Unbound Gravel this year and besides having our own David use one for his third effort at the 200, I offered  the other to John.

And to my surprise, instead of signing up for the 200, JP finally came to his senses and decided to ride the 100 mile event which, for good reason,  has been my personal choice for my three races. In anticipation of his big hundy to come, I asked John to jot down a few notes in in the days leading up to his drive out to Kansas. – Zap 

EMPORIA, KANSAS – THE THIRD TIME CHARM

By John Perry

June is here and that means Unbound Gravel. the Holy Grail of gravel. racing is happening on June 4th.

It’s going to be my third venture into the Flint Hills of Kansas and I can’t wait for the adventure to start. This year however I’m going about it in a different way than in the past…as in 100 miles difference.

I had signed up in the lottery but didn’t get in I was somewhat relived and disappointed at the same time.  However, even if I wasn’t going to race  I still planned to  make the trip anyway just to ride the ride the Kansas gravel  and watch the race unfold in person.

Of course, with my Unbound tourist plan firmly in place, one month out from the event Zap calls me and asks if I would want to race the Unbound again. And of course, I answered yes. He then asked which event the 200 miler or the 100 miler.

LOOKING BACK
The 2021 event didn’t go as planned but I finished after having a big crash 60 miles into the 200 mile distance. In all the preparation for the event I had never really thought about crashing and it made for a long 140 miles to make it to the finish.

So to answer Zap’s questions about which distance I would ride was easy and here’s why:  about 30 miles from the finish last year I was following a fellow racer and saw them crash. I stopped to make sure they were okay and they were so I kept pedaling. However, at that moment I had an epiphany! As I got back on my bike I looked around and saw the sunset was so amazing, I realized that I had not even been looking at the beauty that was surrounding me for the last 140 miles because I was too focused on finishing the event .

Another reason to ride the 100 miler is that for the last two Unbound events I’ve had lights but left them at the last aid station both times. In 2019 I did not need them and in 2021, I could have used them for sure and had to rely on my cell phone for light the last 15 miles.

I answered Zap the 100 miler, I want to really enjoy the surrounding Flint Hills this time.

This year is also going to be different in that the course is going south instead of north like the past two times that I’ve done Unbound, all the more reason to only do 100 miles and lights will defiantly not be needed.

I’m ready as I’ve still been training all spring with Tom Danielson and his Cinch Program. My Giant Revolt Advanced 0 I’m riding is the same one I rode last year with full Shimano GRX 810 drivetrain, 40mm Maxxis Ramblers tires with Cush Core inserts and Stan’s sealant. The only change I’m making will be to the Garmin Rally XC200 power meter mountain bike pedals (last year I used Garmin’s road pedals). Nutrition is the same I’m using a variety of products from Hammer Nutrition; Heed, Fizzes, Gels and Perpetuem and MindFX.

And not  that we’ll be riding together, but just the other day I learned that Peter Sagan will be riding in the 100 as well. Now that should be a welcome addition!

Let’s hope for no crashes, flats or mechanicals and to having the best day being a sightseer in the Flint Hills starting at 7:00AM June  4, 2022.

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As we get closer to the 2022 Unbound start, it seems like everyone is launching new hoops for the unpaved roads. Shimano is going wide with their new GRX RX870 carbon wheels that have a 25mm wide internal dimension. The press release doesn’t point it out but it seems like Shimano has chosen to keep a hook bead for the new gravel option. This tubeless wheelset will likely boost the volume of almost any tire. Shimano says they are for tires between 32mm to 50mm, we would say they could pair well with as small as a 28mm tire and if your bike has the room you can definitely go bigger than 50mm.

Check out a few of the Shimano bikes heading to Unbound

SHIMANO GRX CARBON HOOPS

Press Release

Designed for the specific demands of gravel riding, racing, and exploration, Shimano’s new GRX carbon tubeless gravel wheels bring lightweight, reliable performance in a modern gravel wheel package. Whether your preferred riding terrain is fast gravel roads, smooth, serpentine singletrack, or bushwhacking along old goat paths, these lively tubeless-ready wheels deliver the key performance features necessary to assure a great day on the bike.

Shimano’s lightweight GRX carbon wheelset weighs in at just 1,461 grams and features a shallow 32-millimeter rim height for faster acceleration and climbing whether on steady mountain climbs or the endlessly rolling terrain. The shallower rim depth also ensures better control in heavy crosswinds, a scenario so common on long rides.

Featuring Shimano’s ultra-reliable cup-and-cone ball-bearing hubs, the GRX carbon gravel wheels deliver quick engagement and a lively feel on all riding surfaces. Whether you’re fighting to stay on a wheel during a hectic gravel race start or challenging your riding pals to a town line sprint, the RX870 wheels immediately jump into action.

The GRX carbon rim width is a fully modern 30mm external and 25mm internal, making these wheels suitable for tires from 32mm wide all the way up to 50mm. And the stealth black full-carbon rims are laced with 24 spokes front and rear to maximize strength and reliability no matter how far down the road less traveled your adventures take you.

GRX WHEEL SPECS

• Lightweight carbon gravel wheels for riding and racing
• Designed for 32-50mm tire widths
• 25mm internal and 30mm external rim widths
• Rim Height: 32mm
• Cup-and-cone ball bearing hubs
• 24 spoke count
• Weight: front 639g, rear 822g, total weight of 1,461 grams
• Price: $1399.99

For More Info: Shimano

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It was back in 2019 that Shimano invited RBA to a GRX product launch/ride camp to ride their gravel honed drivetrain. And now two years on the Japanese component giant is back with a limited edition version of the group that has a distinct artisanal flair.  While the components themselves have not changed, Shimano decided that an aesthetic upgrade might not be a bad idea and that’s what they’ll be showcasing on a variety of custom-built bikes being displayed at this weekend’s Unbound Gravel race in Emporia, Kansas.

According to Shimano’s Dylan Stucki, a key point to keep in mind about the GRX Limited parts are that they will really be “limited.” As Dylan said, “The limited quantities of GRX Limited will be sold to IBDs and frame builders as complete groupsets. Our goal is to let the frame builders use the parts to tell the story.” Fair enough, but in case you were wondering, here are the prices for the three GRX Limited group options:

GRX LIMITED EDITION PRICING

2×11 drop bar – $1465
1×11 drop bar – $1360
1×11 flat bar – $1015

SEE THE GALLERY OF SHIMANO’S GRX UNBOUND GRAVEL BIKES

WHAT ABOUT THE ORIGINAL GRX COMPONENTS?

But, before we get lost in the shiny new parts, let’s remember what GRX was all about as we reviewed the gravel parts…

“While Shimano touts the GRX as the world’s first gravel-specific component group, and was a ground-up design, almost all of the components are compatible with existing gruppos. Instead of expanding their already-expansive road designations, the GRX insignia helps navigate what is now a vast offering of shifters, derailleurs, cranks and other small parts with the potential to commingle.

“GRX is also the first non-mountain bike 1x drivetrain from Shimano. Though late to officially jump into the G-world, in typical Shimano fashion, the GRX parts were years in the R&D process, beginning with last year’s soft launch of the Ultegra RX rear derailleur acting only to whet our appetite of what was to come.”

Read the full review: Shimano launches GRX

SHIMANO GRX LIMITED EDITION

Press Release

Shimano will have a special, collaborative exhibition at this year’s Unbound Gravel. Ten stunning hand-built bikes designed by master frame builders from around the world will debut Shimano’s new GRX Limited groupset. These bikes will be on display June 2nd and 3rd at the All Things Gravel expo in downtown Emporia, Kansas to celebrate the history as well as the future of gravel cycling with a nod to the bespoke bicycle community.

Born out of adventure and the call to Explore Beyond, Shimano delivered the first dedicated gravel components back in 2019 with Shimano GRX. Built to support riders as they pursued a wider range of terrain on drop bars, GRX parts helped advance gravel riding and opened the door to new riders around the world. Today, Shimano releases GRX Limited to celebrate this revolutionary gravel group and the heritage of drop bar adventure riding.

At its core, GRX Limited is the tried and true 11-speed mechanical GRX 800 series groupset, but the brushed and polished silver finish delivers a classy take on the quality, precision, and durability synonymous with GRX. The limited run of parts comes in three available spec options; 1×11-speed and 2×11-speed for drop bars, and a third, special offering of 1×11-speed for flat bar configuration.

For More Info: Shimano GRX

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