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Updated: 19th July 2025

Struggling to find the perfect gravel bike for adventure biking on a budget?

We share the best gravel bikes under $1000, entry-level options that make durable all-rounders and some are even perfect for your next off-road adventure.

With years of experience in adventure cycling, we’ve assisted countless enthusiasts in selecting the ideal bike, and we’ve personally tested some of these models in real-world scenarios. 

Watch while you read: Why read when you can watch the video version of this write up instead!

I’ve made this video a few times now and have received some absolutely incredible feedback from you all. I’ve read through every single comment, taken on board your suggestions, and incorporated your insights into this 2025 version. We’re taking a look at some exciting new models while welcoming back some familiar faces that continue to deliver exceptional value.

Let’s be honest from the start – we’re talking about cheap bikes here, and with that comes some compromises. These aren’t going to be the highest quality machines you’ll ever ride. During my research, I came across plenty of options like some Mongoose models and other bikes that I could have included in this video, but when I looked at the specs and build quality, they just felt like poor quality bikes that I wouldn’t feel confident recommending to you. My goal isn’t just to find the cheapest options – it’s to find bikes that offer genuine value and reliability at this price point.

This 2025 update incorporates all the feedback you’ve provided over the years. I’ve adjusted my scoring criteria based on your real-world experiences, included some brands I may have overlooked previously, and focused more heavily on long-term reliability rather than just spec sheets.

So let’s jump straight into the bikes! If you want to skip ahead and see the complete list, I’ve linked a quick reference guide in the description below, along with current pricing and availability. These prices change frequently, so those links will give you the most up-to-date information.

Remember, the “best” bike is ultimately the one that fits your specific needs, riding style, and budget. My goal is to give you the information you need to make that decision confidently. Let’s dive in and find your perfect budget gravel companion for 2025!

*If you are looking at buying one of these gravel bikes, doing it via the affiliate links gives Cycle Travel Overload a commission, at no extra cost to you. Which goes into creating more great resources for the bike travel community.

Quick List:

  1. Poseidon X Gen 3 – $999
  2. Surly Preamble – $899
  3. Marin Muirwoods – $629
  4. Poseidon Redwood – $879.99
  5. Cube Nulane ONE – €799 EUR (~$930 USD)
  6. Norco Search A Flat Bar Gen 3 – $999
  7. Marin DSX – $1,049
  8. Marin Nicasio – $899
  9. Kona Dew – $649
  10. Kona Rove AL 650 – $699.94

1. Poseidon X Gen 3

The Poseidon X Gen 3 has evolved significantly from its earlier iterations and now represents one of the best performance-focused gravel bikes you can get for under $1,000. This bike has taken serious rider feedback and made meaningful upgrades that address previous concerns while maintaining exceptional value.

From our experience and extensive testing, the Gen 3 delivers impressive performance that punches well above its price point. The full carbon fork and thru-axle setup create a confidence-inspiring ride that handles everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures.

The Poseidon X Gen 3 features a performance-oriented design with a 6061 Double Butted Hydroformed Aluminum frame paired with a full carbon fork that keeps weight down to just 22.5 lbs without pedals. The addition of full thru-axles addresses earlier stability concerns while providing modern performance standards.

The bike is equipped with exceptional climbing capabilities through a 1×10 Microshift Advent X drivetrain delivering a 21.52″ low gear – perfect for steep terrain and loaded touring. The wide-range 11-48t cassette provides versatility from challenging climbs to rolling terrain.

Designed for diverse adventures, the tubeless-ready wheelset with sealed cartridge bearings ensures long-term reliability, while compressionless housing delivers crisp shifting throughout the drivetrain. The clean, minimalist design now includes a new Cascade Green color option.

Explore The Poseidon X Gen 3

Cost: Starting from $999

Weight: 10.2 kg or 22.5 lbs (without pedals)

Frame/Fork Material: Aluminum/Carbon: 6061 Double Butted Hydroformed Aluminum frame and Full Carbon fork with thru-axle stability

Groupset and drivetrain: 1×10 microSHIFT Advent X: Prowheel 38t Narrow Wide crank and Microshift 11-48T Advent X cassette

Gear ratios: 21.52″ to 93.99″

Geometry: Stack/Reach ratio 1.44 – chainstay 425mm – wheelbase 1,011mm – (steering) headtube angle 71.5 deg – Fork offset/rake 45mm. Bottom bracket drop 67mm

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 700x40mm Continental Terra Trail tires with clearance for up to 700x45mm or 650b x 1.9″

2. Surly Preamble

Could this be the perfect entry point to steel? The Surly Preamble represents the brand’s approach to making quality steel construction accessible at $899. Here at our testing facility, we’ve found this to be an exceptional gateway to the legendary durability of steel bikes.

This bike serves as Surly’s “Gateway Drug” to steel – an entry-level option that doesn’t cut corners on quality. It’s designed as a more refined alternative to the Straggler while maintaining the practical approach Surly is known for.

The Preamble features 100% Surly Chromoly ‘Natch’ Steel construction with a double-butted main triangle and full steel fork. This legendary durability and ride quality comes at an accessible price point that makes steel construction available to more riders.

The build features dual bar compatibility, allowing riders to choose between flat bars at $899 or drop bars at $1,199. The frame includes vertical dropouts for easy maintenance and comes with full utility setup including rack mounts, fender mounts, and dual water bottle mounts.

Designed for maximum versatility, from daily commuting to light touring and weekend gravel adventures. The reliable microSHIFT Acolyte 1×8 drivetrain provides adequate climbing gears, though not exceptional compared to wider-range alternatives.

Explore The Surly Preamble

Cost: Starting from $899 ($1,199 for drop bar version)

Weight: Approximately 13.6 kg or 30 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: Steel/Steel: 100% Surly Chromoly ‘Natch’ Steel double-butted main triangle and full steel fork

Groupset and drivetrain: 1×8 microSHIFT Acolyte: 40t chainring and 12-42t cassette

Gear ratios: Sub-1:1 climbing gear (adequate range)

Geometry: Five sizes (XS-XL) with size-specific wheels – vertical dropouts for easy maintenance

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 650b x 41mm (XS-S frames) or 700c x 41mm (M-XL frames) with full fender compatibility

3. Marin Muirwoods

Taking a look at the Marin Muirwoods, we have an exceptional steel urban warrior that surprises with its gravel capability. This classic steel commuter bridges city riding and light trail exploration better than most dedicated options in this price range.

From our testing experience, this bike excels at climbing with its excellent 20.7″ gear ratio while maintaining the comfort and durability that makes steel construction so appealing. The more upright positioning makes it ideal for both urban adventures and light trail exploration.

The Muirwoods features a Series 1 Butted 4130 CrMo steel frame and fork providing bombproof construction that prioritizes comfort and durability. While heavier at around 28 lbs, the steel’s natural vibration dampening makes this worthwhile for mixed-surface adventures.

The bike comes equipped with a microSHIFT Advent X 10-speed drivetrain featuring a wide-range 11-51T cassette. This setup delivers that excellent 20.7″ low gear for city climbs and gravel grades that puts it near the top for climbing capability.

Designed with full fender and rack mounts, this bike is ideal for year-round commuting and light touring applications. The hydraulic disc brakes provide confident stopping power while the long wheelbase creates stable, predictable handling.

Explore The Marin Muirwoods

Cost: Starting from $629

Weight: Approximately 12.7 kg or 28 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: Steel/Steel: Series 1 Butted 4130 CrMo steel frame and fork with fender and rack eyelets

Groupset and drivetrain: 1×10 microSHIFT Advent X: Wide-range 11-51T cassette

Gear ratios: 20.7″ climbing gear (excellent climbing capability)

Geometry: Stack/Reach ratio 1.41 – chainstay 430mm – wheelbase 1,120mm – (steering) headtube angle 67.5 deg. Upright positioning prioritizes comfort

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 700C x 40mm Schwalbe Citizen tires with reflective sidewalls, clearance for up to 27.5 x 2.2″ wide tires

4. Poseidon Redwood

Could this be the ultimate adventure machine? The Poseidon Redwood takes the cake for tire clearance in the sub-$900 category! Here at our testing facility, we are all about adventure cycling, and this bike delivers epic adventure capability.

This budget gravel bike can take you on some serious adventures with tire clearance that rivals mountain bikes. The massive tire clearance up to 2.8″ claimed makes this the largest in this price range, though some sources suggest 2.5″ is the practical maximum.

The Redwood has taken the proven Poseidon X geometry and amped it up so you can consume gravel with enough tire to absorb vibrations. The build features a 6061 Double Butted Hydroformed Aluminum frame and 6061 Aluminum Fork with tapered steerer for modern performance.

Powered by a 1 x 10 Advent X groupset with a Prowheel 38t Narrow Wide crank paired with a Microshift 11-48T Advent X cassette. This gives you an incredible 21.88″ granny gear and a 95.54″ highest gear, putting it near the top as the best gravel bike for bikepacking.

The stack/reach ratio is around 1.48 which provides a chill feel, while the 440mm chainstay adds to the stable adventure-focused geometry. It has the potential to take you on rad adventures with mounting options on the fork and Poseidon Adventure Bars with 24 Degree Flare.

Explore The Poseidon Redwood

Cost: $879.99 ($949.99 Drop Bar version)

Weight: 13.2 kg or 29.1 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: 6061 Double Butted Hydroformed Aluminum (Frame), 6061 Aluminum Fork – Tapered Steerer 1 1/8″ – 1 1/2″ (fork)

Groupset & Drivetrain: 1×10 microSHIFT Advent X – Prowheel 38t Narrow Wide Chainring with 170mm crank arms – Microshift 11-48T Advent X 10 Speed cassette

Gear Ratios: 21.88″ to 95.54″ (0.79 to 3.45 ratio)

Geometry: Stack/Reach ratio 1.48 – chainstay 440mm – wheelbase 1042mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – trail 73.5mm – Fork offset/rake 45mm. Bottom bracket drop 63.4mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance): Kenda Kadre 27.5 x 2.35 – Redwood wheels have 27.5″ thru-axle/tubeless compatible rims. Tire clearance up to 2.8″ claimed (some sources say 2.5″ max)

5. Cube Nulane ONE

Taking a look at the Cube Nulane ONE, we see German engineering meeting excellent value in the gravel bike market. This €799 EUR aluminum gravel bike brings Cube’s reputation for quality construction to riders seeking European build quality without premium pricing.

From our analysis, this bike represents a strong value proposition with premium features like a carbon fork, hydraulic brakes, and tubeless-ready wheels typically found on more expensive alternatives. The German engineering approach shows in the attention to detail and component selection.

The Nulane ONE features an Aluminium Superlite Trekking Sport frame with Flat Mount Disc and modern 12x142mm spacing. The full carbon fork with taper steerer and 12x100mm thru-axle reduces weight while improving ride quality over aluminum alternatives.

The bike comes equipped with a Shimano Cues 9-speed drivetrain featuring an Acid Gravel Pro crankset with 40T chainring optimized for mixed terrain. Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc brakes provide consistent stopping power in all conditions.

Designed with modern standards, the Cube OR 2.5 Disc tubeless-ready rims allow for lower tire pressures and puncture protection. Rolling on Schwalbe G-One Allround 40mm tires with Kevlar protection for excellent grip on mixed surfaces.

Explore The Cube Nulane ONE

Cost: €799 EUR or approximately $930 USD

Weight: Not specified

Frame/Fork Material: Aluminum/Carbon: Aluminium Superlite Trekking Sport frame and Cube TS Disc Full Carbon fork

Groupset and drivetrain: Shimano Cues 9-Speed: Acid Gravel Pro crankset with 40T chainring and Shimano Cues 9-speed system

Gear ratios: Not specified

Geometry: Available in five sizes (50cm, 53cm, 56cm, 59cm, 62cm) with contemporary gravel bike positioning

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: Schwalbe G-One Allround 40mm tires with tubeless-ready Cube OR 2.5 Disc rims, 12x100mm front and 12x142mm rear thru-axles

6. Norco Search A Flat Bar Gen 3

Could this represent the evolution of flat-bar gravel? The Norco Search A Flat Bar Gen 3 brings modern progressive geometry to riders who want gravel capability without drop bars. This new-school approach bridges traditional gravel and contemporary adventure riding.

From our assessment, this bike delivers confidence-inspiring handling with its progressive geometry that includes a taller headtube, slacker head angle, and longer reach for stability on rough terrain and confident descending – perfect for mixed terrain adventures.

The Search A features a lightweight aluminum frame with modern gravel-specific geometry optimized for adventure riding. The full carbon fork with adventure mounts reduces weight while providing mounting points for gear and accessories.

The bike is equipped with a Shimano CUES 1×9 drivetrain providing reliable shifting with modern wide-range gearing for varied terrain. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes deliver consistent stopping power in all conditions, while massive tire clearance up to 50c allows for maximum traction.

Designed for the modern adventure rider, it features UDH compatibility for latest drivetrain technologies and is suspension fork ready with updated longer fork geometry. The adventure-ready mounting system includes full-coverage fender, toptube bag, and water bottle mounts.

Explore The Norco Search A

Cost: Starting from $999

Weight: Not specified

Frame/Fork Material: Aluminum/Carbon: Lightweight aluminum frame and Full Carbon fork with adventure mounts

Groupset and drivetrain: 1×9 Shimano CUES: Shimano CUES 1×9 drivetrain with wide-range gearing

Gear ratios: Not specified

Geometry: Progressive gravel geometry with taller headtube, slacker head angle, and longer reach for stability

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: Tire clearance up to 50c for maximum traction and comfort, suspension fork compatible

7. Marin DSX

Taking a look at the updated Marin DSX, we have a versatile flat bar gravel bike designed for mixed-surface adventures and bikepacking capability. The 2025 model brings significant updates with improved frame construction and modern performance features.

From our analysis, this bike appeals to mountain bikers transitioning to gravel riding with its familiar flat bar setup and MTB-style handling characteristics. The full carbon fork and 11-speed drivetrain represent meaningful upgrades for the new model year.

The DSX features a Series 2 aluminum frame (note: Series 3 in higher models) paired with a full carbon fork with tapered steerer and 12mm thru-axle. This provides modern performance and stiffness while keeping the familiar flat bar positioning that appeals to MTB riders.

The bike comes equipped with an 11-speed Tektro Gemini drivetrain featuring an 11-50T cassette providing wide gear range for varied terrain. Tektro HD-R285 hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors provide reliable stopping power for confident descending.

Designed for adventure versatility, it includes internal dropper post routing for easy upgrades and rough terrain capability. Rack and fender eyelets accommodate bikepacking gear and commuting accessories, while the stable geometry ensures confident handling.

Explore The Marin DSX

Cost: $1,049 (2025 model – increased from previous $849)

Weight: Not specified

Frame/Fork Material: Aluminum/Carbon: Series 2 aluminum frame and full carbon fork with tapered steerer

Groupset and drivetrain: 11-speed Tektro Gemini: 11-50T cassette providing wide gear range

Gear ratios: Wide range for varied terrain

Geometry: Stack/Reach ratio with 69.5° head angle and 425mm chainstays – 80mm bottom bracket drop

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: WTB Riddler 700c x 45mm tires, clearance up to 700x50mm

8. Marin Nicasio

We reviewed this bike previously and have had first-hand experience backing its ability to grind gravel on an attractive budget. From our experience riding this bike for over a year now, I can confidently say it’s one of the more fun gravel bikes you can ride for around that $900 price.

The Nicasio by Marin is a versatile bike crafted with distinct Beyond Road Geometry that merges the best of endurance road handling with added off-pavement stability. It’s rather popular amongst those looking to get into gravel cycling.

Its heart is a Series 1 butted 4130 CrMo steel frame, celebrated for its durability and subtle springiness, making it both resilient and comfortable. Steel’s toughness ensures it can weather dings and scratches while still offering a safe ride for years.

The bike is outfitted with a 1×9 microSHIFT Advent drivetrain, FSA Vero Pro 1x Narrow Wide chainring with 42T crank, and SunRace 9-Speed 11-46T cassette. Disc brakes provide controlled stopping, with clearance for a range of tire sizes.

Designed for diverse terrains, from tarmac to gravel, it’s ideal for long, gear-laden journeys or simply comfortable day-long adventures. Riding the Nicasio provides a harmonious blend of modern and traditional, capturing the essence of steel construction with adaptability for various surfaces.

Explore The Marin Nicasio

Cost: Starting from $899 ($1,099 for Nicasio +)

Weight: 12.9kg or 28.44 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: Steel/Steel: Series 1 Double Butted CrMo Beyond Road frame and CrMo, Fender and Rack Eyelets, IS Disc Mount fork

Groupset and drivetrain: 1×9 microSHIFT Advent, FSA: FSA Vero Pro 1x, Narrow Wide Rings, 42T crank and SunRace 9-Speed, 11-46T cassette

Gear ratios: 24.15″ to 101.37″

Geometry: (54cm frame size) Stack/Reach ratio 1.52 – chainstay 420mm – wheelbase 999mm – (steering) headtube angle 72 deg – trail 63mm – Fork offset/rake 45mm. Bottom bracket drop 72mm

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 650b x 47c with tire clearance for 650b x 47mm (2025 models now offer 700c with 45mm clearance)

9. Kona Dew

Taking a look at the Kona Dew, we have Kona’s gateway to flat-bar gravel cycling. Technically categorized as a commuter bike, the Kona Dew still earns a spot in the budget gravel bike list as a versatile two-wheeler for urban commuting and light off-road adventures.

From our assessment, this represents exceptional value from a quality brand like Kona. The Dew is perfect for work commutes, grocery store runs, or Sunday afternoon adventures – whatever your town has in store, this bike will take you there with surprising gravel capability.

The Dew features a 6061 aluminum butted frame with Kona’s proven Project Two aluminum disc fork for durability and affordability. The 650b wheel advantage provides extra air volume for comfort at lower pressures, ideal for mixed-surface riding.

The bike comes equipped with Tektro mechanical disc brakes providing reliable stopping power in all weather conditions. The entry-level drivetrain with integrated brake/shift levers provides adequate range for urban hills and light climbing adventures.

Designed with an upright riding position, it prioritizes comfort and visibility for urban environments while remaining surprisingly capable off-road. Multiple mounting options including rack and fender mounts make it practical for cargo hauling and all-weather commuting.

Explore The Kona Dew

Cost: Starting from $649

Weight: Approximately 11.3 kg or 25 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: Aluminum/Aluminum: Kona 6061 Aluminum Butted frame and Kona Project Two Aluminum Disc fork

Groupset and drivetrain: Entry-level drivetrain with integrated brake/shift levers and adequate gear range

Gear ratios: Adequate range for urban hills and light climbing

Geometry: Upright riding position prioritizing comfort and visibility for urban environments

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 650b wheels with wider urban tires featuring puncture resistance, rack and fender compatibility

10. Kona Rove AL 650

Taking a look at the Kona Rove AL 650, we see Kona’s exciting new direction in gravel bikes, offering solid performance at an accessible price point. This entry-level gravel bike represents excellent value for riders new to gravel cycling who want reliable aluminum construction.

From our analysis, this bike serves as a perfect foundation for gravel exploration with quality frame construction and reliable components. The 26 lbs weight puts it in a reasonable range for aluminum gravel bikes at this price point, while providing room to grow into the sport.

The Rove AL 650 features full aluminum construction with Kona’s 6061 butted aluminum frame paired with a Project Two aluminum disc fork. The modest component specification includes a Shimano Claris 2×8 drivetrain that provides practical gear range for varied terrain.

The bike comes equipped with an FSA Tempo Adventure 34/50t crankset matched with a Shimano Claris 11-34t cassette. This delivers climbing-friendly gearing with 26.54 gear inches in the lowest gear and 120.74 gear inches for solid top-end speed.

Designed with stable geometry, the 66mm trail creates predictable, confidence-inspiring handling ideal for newer gravel riders. Rolling on 650b wheels with WTB Venture Comp 650x47c tires for enhanced comfort and traction, while 435mm chainstays hit the sweet spot between agility and stability.

Explore The Kona Rove

Cost: Available from $699.94 (Jenson USA pricing, typically $1,099)

Weight: 11.80 kg or 26 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: Alloy/Alloy: Kona 6061 Aluminum Butted frame and Kona Project Two Aluminum Disc fork

Groupset and drivetrain: 2×8 Claris: FSA Tempo Adventure 34/50t crank and Shimano Claris or Microshift Mezzo 11-34t cassette

Gear ratios: 26.54″ to 120.74″

Geometry: Stack/Reach ratio 1.52 – chainstay 435mm – wheelbase 1045mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – trail 66mm – Fork offset/rake 50mm. Bottom bracket drop 72mm

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: WTB Venture Comp 650x47c: max clearance for 700 x 40mm or 650b x 47mm

How do we decide on which is the best affordable gravel bike – with exceptional value for money?

While researching for this video, I discovered that many traditional budget options have increased in price significantly. The cycling industry has seen some major shifts, and what used to be a $800 bike might now be pushing $1200 or more. But don’t worry – there are still excellent alternatives to consider:

Used Market: 2022-2023 models are often available at significant discounts, sometimes offering higher-spec components than current budget options.

Direct-to-Consumer Brands: These continue to offer the best value proposition by cutting out the middleman and passing those savings directly to you.

End-of-Season Sales: Traditional bike shops often discount previous year models, creating opportunities to snag higher-end bikes within our budget.

Just like in my previous videos, I’ve developed a scoring system to evaluate these bikes. It might seem a bit arbitrary, and “best” is certainly subjective based on individual needs, but this framework helps create a fair comparison across different models.

Cost: Must be under $1000 USD to score well in this category. Any bike significantly over this threshold gets penalized in the overall ranking.

Weight: Lighter is always better, though realistically, finding anything under 12kg at this price point is competitive. The bikes in this list range from around 10kg up to 14kg. Remember, if you’re planning adventures with loaded panniers, that extra kilogram won’t matter much, but if you’re looking for a faster gravel bike on a budget, weight becomes more significant.

Frame and Fork Material: This doesn’t heavily impact scoring since it’s largely personal preference and depends on intended use. Steel frames are fantastic for adventure touring due to their durability and ride quality. Aluminum offers excellent value and stiffness. Carbon fiber provides performance benefits but is rare at this price point. Each has its place depending on your riding style.

Gear Ratios: This is where I get quite technical. I calculate each bike’s lowest gear ratio, and anything under 22 gear inches is excellent for climbing with loaded bikes. Most bikes in this list range from about 20.8 to 27 gear inches. Those with the easier climbing gears ranked higher because if you’re planning adventures, you want to be able to spin those pedals easily, especially when carrying a heavy load uphill.

Geometry: Stack-to-reach ratio over 1.5 indicates comfort-focused geometry ideal for long-distance adventures. Lower ratios suggest more aggressive, race-oriented positioning. Shorter chainstays provide quicker handling but can affect stability with loaded bags. This helps you understand what each bike was designed for.

Tire Clearance: Wider is definitely better. 45mm+ is good, 50mm+ is excellent. This is crucial for adventure riding because beefier tires handle rough terrain better, reduce puncture risk, and open up more trail options. I personally run 2.3-inch tires on my Kona Sutra LTD, which are essentially narrow mountain bike tires, and they’ve allowed me to explore some incredible places that would be impossible on narrow gravel tires.

Component Quality: At this price point, we’re looking for reliability and basic performance rather than premium features. Bikes that spec better shifters, brakes, and drivetrain components score higher.

Some respected mentions that didn’t quite make this 2025 list

State Bicycles 4130 All-Road

A full fledged chromoly steel gravel bike for a very tasty price tag! This could be one of the best gravel bikes in this list. Allowing for both 700c and 650b tires.

So you can run slicks or knobby tires. Depending on where you want to ride. With a versatile front fork that has many cargo cage braze ons for all the hauling you could ever need.

Featuring State Bicycle Co own 1 x 11 drivetrain. Which gives you a 42 t front crank and 11-42 at the rear.

With the 650b x 2.1″ tires, resulting in a climbing gear of 27.19″ which is rather limited for a gravel bike. But for a bargain price of $799.99 if you plan to ride long and straight gravel roads this might be the smart choice.

It’s good to see this years models offering a large selection of colour choices. Reminiscent of All City Gorilla Monsoon vibes.

I struggled to find accurate information of this bikes geometry. But some owners recommend this for a bikepacking bike.

Thanks to the long rear end which helps it track straight and not feel twitchy.

The 42 tooth crank at the front is too large in my opinion. And I would change it out for a smaller one say 36t to get better climbing results.

Other then that a great pick up for such a cheap price. 

Explore The State Bicycles 4130 All-Road

Cost: $899

Weight: 12.7 kg or 28 lbs

Frame/Fork Material: Steel/Steel

Groupset and drivetrain: State Bicycle Co own 1 x 11 drivetrain. With a 42T front crank and 11-42T cassette

Gear ratios: 27.19” to 103.87”

Geometry: I struggled to find accurate information of this bike’s geometry. But some owners recommend this for a bikepacking bike. Thanks to the long rear end (450 mm chainstay) which helps it track straight and not feel twitchy. The 42 tooth crank at the front is too large in my opinion. And I would change it out for a smaller one say 36t to get better climbing results. Other than that it’s a great pick up for such a cheap price. 

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 650b x 2.1″ tires and clearance for 700×45 or 650×50

Salsa Journeyer Flat Bar

The all new Salsa Journeyer takes on a new look from its sibling the Journeyman which has been featured as one of the best gravel bikes you can buy under $1,000 in previous years. Depicted by Salsa as their workhorse all-road adventure machine. A do everything all-road bike, for gravel and road adventures, weighing in at around 24 pounds or 10.88 kg. Available in a plethora of options the cheapest starting at $999 for the base flat bar option. You know it’s going to be the perfect adventure gravel bike just by its name, Journeyer is “A traveler going on a trip, a wayfarer.”

If you can spare the extra cash to buy the more specced out models I would recommend them. However as an entry level option starting at that $999 mark. You get the choice of some flat bar options and the base model drop bar bikes start from $1,099. With 1×8 or 2×9 flat in 650b and 700c and a slightly better specced 1×9 drop bar.

The base model Journeyer with Altus components priced at $999 using the 650b wheels for example giving you slightly better gearing. Has a granny gear of 23.35″ and largest gear of 110.92″.

Comparing the geometry to the previous Journeyman there are some differences. Just by looking at the two bikes the Journeyer appears to have a more progressive mountain bike geometry with the more angled top tube. The Journeyman is more upright however the Journeyer is still rather upright and will offer comfort for long days in the saddle. Chainstay length stays the same but a longer wheelbase for the Journeyer making it more planted for touring. The head tube angle is slacker on the Journeyer by 1 degree making the fork of the bike stick out farther, creating a more stable ride. The trail is also longer witch adds to the bikes slower, but calmer, steering response. Making it overall a slightly more dialed bike for adventure cycling.

Explore The Salsa Journeyer

Cost: From $999

Weight: approx 11 kg or 24.25 lbs (might be more as this is for the more expensive models) (3/5)

Frame/Fork Material: Alloy/Carbon : Journeyer Flat-Bar Quick-Release frame / Fantail carbon fork

Groupset and drivetrain: two options at this price: 1×8 microSHIFT Acolyte, FSA : FSA Vero Pro 40t crank and microSHIFT H083, 12–42t cassette. Or 2×9 Altus, Acera : Shimano MT210 46/30t crank and Shimano M200, 11–34t cassette.

Gear ratios: 1×8 : 25.21” to 88.36” / 2×9 : 23.35” to 110.92″

Geometry: Stack/Reach ratio 1.37 – chainstay 440mm – wheelbase 1101mm – (steering) headtube angle 69.5 deg – trail 70mm – Fork offset/rake 50mm. Bottom bracket drop 70mm

Tires and wheel sizes & Tire Clearance: 650b x 47 or 700c x 38 – Available in both 700c or 650b with clearance for 700c x 56mm or 650b x 58mm

About The Author

Codey Orgill

Codey Orgill

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.