Updated: 18th Dec 2024
In the world of gravel biking, where off-road exploration and adventurous spirit collide, finding the perfect bike to tackle rugged terrains can feel like an epic quest.
But gravel bikes with belt drives are a revolutionary innovation that takes the ride to a whole new level. With their smooth, quiet, and ultra-low-maintenance design, these bikes are redefining what it means to conquer gravel.
This article dives headfirst into the belt-drive revolution, showcasing the best gravel bikes in this rapidly growing niche.
If you’re tired of greasy chains, endless maintenance, and want something durable, reliable, and performance-focused, you’re in the right place.
Belt-drive bikes offer more than just longevity—they deliver an unparalleled ride experience with cutting-edge engineering and design.
Gravel biking has exploded in popularity among outdoor enthusiasts who crave adventure and exploration. Belt drives have become the go-to choice for riders seeking ultimate durability, hassle-free maintenance, and superior performance.
Here, we celebrate the standout bikes that are raising the bar in this exciting cycling space.
Priority Gemini
The Priority Gemini Smart.Shift Gravel is the big sibling to the popular Apollo, offering even more versatility and cutting-edge features for riders who demand performance, comfort, and durability.
This bike takes everything great about the Apollo and levels it up with innovative technology, including the Pinion Smart.Shift system and Gates Carbon Drive belt, to create a truly low-maintenance, high-performance gravel machine.
The Gemini is designed for riders who refuse to compromise. Whether you’re exploring remote gravel paths, commuting through the city, or embarking on a fully loaded bikepacking adventure, this bike delivers on all fronts.
The Pinion Smart.Shift system provides lightning-fast electronic shifting with a massive 600% gear range, ensuring you’re equipped for both steep climbs and fast descents. Paired with the virtually maintenance-free Gates Carbon Drive, it eliminates greasy chains and derailleur issues, letting you focus solely on the ride.
The geometry strikes a balance between comfort and capability, blending the efficiency of a road bike with the stability and control of a trail-ready steed. The upright position and flared drop bars make long rides more comfortable while giving you confidence on technical descents.
The bike’s lightweight aluminum or titanium frame enhances its responsiveness, and the carbon fork smooths out vibrations, making it ideal for mixed terrain.
Tubeless-ready WTB Vulpine tires and KOM Team rims ensure grip and speed, whether you’re riding on loose gravel, packed dirt, or smooth tarmac.
The recessed knobs on the tires provide excellent traction without sacrificing rolling efficiency, while the rims’ TCS 2.0 technology ensures durability and reliability. Hydraulic TRP Hywire brakes offer precise stopping power in any conditions, giving you total control on and off the road.
What sets the Gemini apart is its integration of advanced technology and thoughtful design. The Pinion gearbox is not only intuitive but also boasts a 10,000-shift battery life and a 6,000-mile service interval, making it one of the most hassle-free systems available.
Add in mounts for racks, fenders, and frame bags, and you’ve got a bike ready for anything—from daily commutes to multi-day adventures.
At $3,499, the Priority Gemini Smart.Shift Gravel represents incredible value for the features it offers. Its combination of high-tech shifting, durable components, and adventure-ready design make it one of the most capable and low-maintenance gravel bikes in its class.
If you’re looking for a bike that’s ready to tackle whatever you throw at it, the Gemini is a standout choice.
Wilhelm Gravel
The Wilhelm Gravel takes versatility to another level, offering an unmatched blend of comfort, capability, and performance. It’s designed for riders who want a bike capable of tackling gravel, dirt, and mixed terrain while remaining highly customizable for specific needs.
This bike is perfect for adventurers who value flexibility, whether for long-distance bikepacking, gravel touring, or spirited rides closer to home. With wide tire clearance, multiple drivetrain options, and modular carrying solutions, the Wilhelm Gravel is built to handle everything from off-road escapades to fully-loaded touring. Its lightweight aluminum or titanium frame, paired with a carbon fork, provides a smooth and efficient ride while remaining strong enough for rugged use.
The drivetrain options are where the Wilhelm truly shines, offering something for every type of rider. Choose between the ultra-low-maintenance Gates Carbon Drive system paired with the electronic Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox for seamless shifting, or opt for the Rohloff Speedhub or Shimano Alfine Di2 for reliable performance across varied terrain. Each setup is integrated thoughtfully to ensure the bike remains balanced and responsive, even when loaded with gear.
The geometry hits the sweet spot between comfort and performance, with an upright riding position for long days in the saddle and flared drop bars for added control on technical descents. Hydraulic disc brakes deliver dependable stopping power in all conditions, while tubeless-ready tires offer grip and speed across gravel and pavement.
With plenty of mounts for racks, fenders, and frame bags, the Wilhelm Gravel is a self-supported adventurer’s dream. It’s a bike that allows you to go further and explore deeper, giving you the freedom to bond with nature while offering the reliability and performance to keep you moving. For anyone looking for a premium gravel bike that does it all, the Wilhelm Gravel is an exceptional choice.
Spot Acme
The Spot Acme is hands down one of the most versatile and budget-friendly flat-bar gravel bikes I’ve come across. It’s the kind of bike that checks a lot of boxes: low maintenance, great for commuting, capable on light gravel, and, honestly, just fun to ride.
If you’re someone who wants a reliable bike that you can use every day without the headache of constant upkeep, this bike might be exactly what you’re looking for.
This bike is perfect for someone who needs a dependable commuter but also wants the flexibility to hit some light gravel or trails on the weekend. It’s got rack and fender mounts, so you can easily load it up with bags, panniers, or even groceries. The SP Dynamo hub is a game-changer.
It powers integrated front and rear lights without the need for batteries, which means every time your wheels are spinning, you’re visible. For city riders or anyone commuting in low light, that’s a huge plus.
And let’s talk about those flat bars. They make the bike super approachable for urban riding while still being playful enough for light off-road use. Whether you’re heading to work in regular clothes or ripping around on some gravel, this bike adapts.
The Acme comes stock with Kenda Small Block Eight 700x32C tires, which are fine for most road and light gravel conditions.
But if you’re planning to hit rougher terrain, I’d recommend swapping them for something wider and tubeless-ready, like 38-40mm tires. The stock wheels are solid but lean more towards city use than full-on gravel grinding.
The aluminum frame combined with a carbon fork keeps the bike lightweight but strong. It’s responsive, smooths out road vibrations, and feels nimble when you’re weaving through traffic or climbing hills.
The geometry strikes a nice balance, giving you an upright position that’s comfortable for longer rides but still sporty enough to feel fast.
At 13.2kg (29.8 lbs) fully built, it’s light enough for efficient commuting but sturdy enough to handle everyday use and some weekend adventures.
At $2,457, the Spot Acme is incredible value for what you’re getting. The Gates belt drive, Shimano Alfine hub, and SP Dynamo lighting system are features you don’t usually find at this price point.
Compared to other bikes in its category, it’s a steal. Plus, the attention to detail—like Loctite on the bottle cage bolts and a touch-up paint tube for scratches—shows that Spot put a lot of thought into this bike.
M83 Vagabund IRON P12
The M83 Vagabund IRON P12 is where timeless design meets modern innovation, making it a top choice for gravel enthusiasts who value performance, durability, and minimal maintenance.
Built on the IRON 2.0 frameset, its CroMo steel Columbus Zona frame balances strength and comfort, soaking up vibrations for smooth, long rides. Paired with the lightweight Vagabund Carbon Gravel fork, it offers responsive handling and precision across all terrains.
At its core is the Pinion Smart.Shift gearbox with a massive 601% gear range and seamless electronic shifting. With over 40,000 shifts per charge and minimal upkeep, this system is designed for reliability and ease.
The Gates Carbon Drive belt adds to its low-maintenance appeal, eliminating grease and rust while keeping the ride silent and efficient.
The TRP Hylex hydraulic brakes deliver strong, consistent stopping power, and the Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M 700x45C tires provide excellent grip and smooth rolling for any surface. For those seeking even more customization, options include upgrades to carbon wheels and a dynamo hub for added performance and versatility.
Ideal for gravel adventures, bikepacking trips, or all-day explorations, the IRON P12 blends classic craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Its nearly maintenance-free design, timeless steel frame, and innovative drivetrain make it a stunning choice for riders who demand both style and substance.
Santos Cross Lite
The Santos Cross Lite is the ultimate blend of versatility, speed, and durability. Perfect for gravel racing, commuting, or bikepacking, this gravel bike adapts to any riding style.
Whether you’re looking for speed on tarmac or stability on gravel, the Cross Lite has you covered.
Equipped with powerful hydraulic disc brakes, it ensures precision stopping power no matter the conditions. Its comfortable drop bar with a shallow bend enhances the bike’s sporty feel while maintaining agility.
The ability to customize this bike is a standout feature—add luggage racks, wider tires (35mm to 60mm), or even mudguards to match your riding needs.
You can also choose between a lightweight carbon fork or a rugged steel one, making it perfect for touring.
What really makes the Cross Lite shine is its adaptability. Swap out the front fork for a fixed option, and it transforms into a touring bike ready to carry all your gear.
The Rohloff hub with internal gears and Gates carbon belt drive make cleaning and maintenance effortless. You can hose it off after a muddy ride or store it as-is without worrying about rust or wear.
For bikepacking enthusiasts, this bike is a dream. Agile and strong, it’s built for unpaved tracks and minimalist travel.
Attach your luggage to the frame and venture off the beaten path, camping under the stars or setting up in remote locations.
Whether you’re training on gravel during wet conditions, commuting to work, or embarking on a multi-day cycling holiday, the Santos Cross Lite is a solid choice.
It’s light, fast, and incredibly reliable. The Rohloff hub and belt drive combo ensure smooth gear changes and a low-maintenance setup that lasts for countless kilometers.
Veloheld Farway
The Veloheld Farway Pinion Gravel is a meticulously crafted machine, perfect for riders who crave adventure without compromising on quality, durability, or comfort.
Made in Leipzig with precision and love, its CrMo steel frame is not only robust but also offers the comfort needed for long tours. Paired with a chromoly fork featuring mounts for bags and lowrider racks, this bike is a dream for gravel explorers and bikepackers alike.
At its core is the Pinion C1.12 gearbox, boasting a 600% gear range and 12 finely spaced gears for smooth, reliable shifting in all conditions. Combined with the Gates CDX belt drive, the drivetrain is nearly maintenance-free, providing a quiet and efficient ride.
Whether you’re traversing city streets, tackling gravel paths, or loading up for a long-distance tour, this setup ensures you can focus on the journey, not the upkeep.
With Schwalbe G-One Overland 50mm tires and DT Swiss G 540 rims, the farway offers exceptional traction, stability, and comfort on varied terrain. Its SRAM Rival hydraulic brakes provide confident stopping power, whether you’re descending steep trails or navigating urban traffic.
The Ritchey WCS VentureMax handlebars with multiple grip options add versatility and control, making this bike as comfortable for long rides as it is responsive for technical sections.
Customization is where the farway truly shines. Choose from standard colors like “Dragon’s Blood” or opt for a personalized RAL powder coat to match your style.
Add features like SON dynamo-powered lights, Tubus Logo Evo racks for up to 26kg of gear, or durable aluminum mudguards for all-weather capability.
Every detail is designed to enhance functionality while maintaining a sleek and understated aesthetic.
Weighing around 13.5kg and built for versatility, the veloheld.farway Pinion Gravel is ideal for riders who want a dependable and adaptable companion for everything from daily commutes to multi-day gravel adventures.
With its German craftsmanship and focus on low-maintenance performance, this bike is a testament to thoughtful design and enduring quality.
Priority Apollo Gravel
The Priority Apollo Gravel is a game-changer for riders looking for a low-maintenance, high-performance machine that can tackle a mix of terrain with ease.
This drop-bar gravel bike is built to perform on gravel paths, city streets, and everything in between.
Say goodbye to dirty cassettes and endless cleaning, and say hello to smooth, uninterrupted rides.
Whether you’re a commuter, adventurer, bikepacker, or weekend rider, the Apollo Gravel delivers unmatched reliability and style.
Designed with simplicity and performance in mind, the Apollo features a belt drive system that eliminates the hassle of chains, letting you focus entirely on the ride. It’s a bike that keeps up with your adventurous lifestyle and requires minimal upkeep.
ERDENLAUF 5.0 GR
The ERDENLAUF 5.0 GR is an incredibly versatile and low-maintenance gravel bike built for riders who demand reliability and performance across all terrains. Whether you’re conquering asphalt, gravel paths, or muddy trails, this bike is designed to handle it all with ease.
With its electronically shifting Pinion gearbox and Gates Carbon Drive belt, the ERDENLAUF 5.0 GR eliminates the headaches of traditional maintenance, allowing you to focus entirely on the ride ahead.
Crafted from a stiff yet comfortable aluminum frame, this bike boasts precision engineering that ensures efficient power transfer while maintaining a smooth and enjoyable ride. The internally routed cables and brake lines keep the design sleek and clean, while the adjustable CNC-milled dropouts provide flexibility for both belt and chain drivetrains.
With a durable carbon fork and 12x100mm thru axle, you’ll experience stability and control even on rough terrain, complemented by a frame that accommodates up to 2.25” wide tires for extra comfort and grip.
The bike comes equipped with DT Swiss G 1800 aluminum gravel wheels, paired with Schwalbe G-ONE Allround EVO tires for confident handling across varied surfaces.
The tubeless-ready setup enhances puncture resistance and ride quality, making it ideal for long tours or challenging adventures. Stopping power is guaranteed with TRP Hylex hydraulic brakes featuring integrated electronic shifting, ensuring smooth transitions and precision braking in any conditions.
Comfort and control are key with the Ritchey Comp Butano handlebars, offering an 18° flare for stability on technical descents. The ergonomic Selle Italia Model Y saddle and Ritchey Comp seatpost round out the setup, delivering a comfortable ride even on long-distance excursions.
The bike’s thoughtful touches, like mounts for racks, fenders, and three bottle cages, make it a practical choice for bikepacking and touring.
Weighing approximately 12.5kg (size M), the ERDENLAUF 5.0 GR is as agile as it is robust. Its customizable options allow you to choose your frame color, components, and additional features like lighting systems or upgraded wheels, tailoring the bike to your specific needs and style.
With a five-year frame guarantee and a build designed to thrive on every type of terrain, the ERDENLAUF 5.0 GR is more than just a gravel bike—it’s a reliable partner for your next big adventure.
Argon GX
The Argon GX Pinion stands out as a unique gravel bike designed to handle everything from smooth tarmac to rugged off-road trails. Whether you’re commuting, embarking on a bikepacking trip, or seeking a reliable all-around gravel bike, this model offers a balance of durability, functionality, and thoughtful design.
One of the key features of the Argon GX is its Pinion gearbox, paired with a low-maintenance Gates Carbon Drive belt.
Riders can choose between the P1.18 system with an extensive 636% gear range or the lighter C1.12 option, which still provides a substantial 600% range.
This setup is ideal for tackling varied terrain without the typical issues of chains and derailleurs, like rust, dirt buildup, or frequent adjustments. External cable routing makes any maintenance straightforward, which is a thoughtful touch for those who prefer simpler upkeep.
The geometry of the Argon GX is designed with versatility in mind. It balances speed and stability, making it suitable for both fast commutes and off-road adventures.
With clearance for tires up to 45mm on 700c wheels or 50mm on 27.5-inch wheels, the bike offers solid traction and comfort across diverse surfaces. Adaptive geometry ensures that regardless of frame size, the handling and ride quality remain consistent and intuitive.
For riders interested in long-distance or multi-day trips, the Argon GX is equipped with discreet mounting points for racks, fenders, and multiple water bottles.
These features enhance its capabilities as a bikepacking or touring rig while maintaining a clean, minimalist appearance. Additionally, the bike is compatible with gravel suspension forks, adding an extra layer of comfort for rougher routes.
Nicolai’s craftsmanship shines through in the frame construction. Made from 7020-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the frame is engineered for durability and impact resistance without sacrificing comfort.
The visible welds and precisely milled components reflect Nicolai’s commitment to quality and functionality. Riders can also customize their bike with a range of color options, including over 50 finishes or a raw aluminum look for those who prefer a more understated aesthetic.
The Argon GX Pinion is not just a gravel bike—it’s a versatile tool for riders who value reliability and adaptability.
Its modular design, durable build, and thoughtful features make it a strong contender for anyone looking to explore gravel paths, trails, and beyond, all while keeping maintenance to a minimum.
Booda Bike Hiker
The Booda Bike Hiker is purpose-built for riders who crave thrilling adventures on gravel and asphalt alike. With its innovative design and standout features, this bike truly earns its place in the spotlight.
At the heart of the Booda Bike Hiker is its Alfine 11-speed gear hub, delivering a seamless and reliable riding experience.
Paired with Schwalbe Allround Performance tubeless tires, it provides excellent traction on gravel while remaining efficient on the road. This duality makes it a versatile choice for riders who love variety.
The bike’s geometry is designed for long-distance comfort, keeping you in an optimal riding position without compromising agility. Notably, the Microshift Inter 11 shift lever adds precision and sophistication to your gear changes.
Its steel frame strikes the perfect balance between flexibility and stiffness, soaking up vibrations while maintaining excellent responsiveness. The carbon fork takes comfort a step further, reducing the impact of bumps and uneven terrain for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Weighing approximately 11.5 kilograms, the Booda Bike Hiker is lightweight, agile, and ready for any adventure. It’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for functionality.
The innovative construction makes it a capable and well-equipped machine for riders who want gear-changing efficiency without unnecessary weight.
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