Is a gravel bike the go-to steed for bikepacking adventures? Well, in the grand scheme of things, you could embark on a bikepacking journey with practically any bike you own. Yes, even that dusty two-wheeler in your garage. But does that make it the ideal choice? Not necessarily.
Bikepacking, at least through my lens, is all about loading up your bike with gear and hitting the open road (or trail) for some camping, peppered with lengthy stretches of pedaling in between. While several gravel bikes are indeed up for this challenge, not all make the cut.
So, what transforms a gravel bike into a stellar companion for bikepacking? It boils down to a mix of personal preferences, particularly when balancing the scales of comfort and performance. If you’re anything like me, you’re after a ride that doesn’t compromise on comfort yet still delivers top-notch performance.
The key differentiator among gravel bikes? Geometry. You’ll find some gravel bikes are cut out for cyclocross—zippy and race-ready—while others could be mistaken for touring bikes, leaning towards the “let’s take it easy” side of things. Striking that sweet spot in the middle could lead you to the gravel bike of your bikepacking dreams.
For me, a non-negotiable feature is an upright riding position. Some gravel bikes flirt with road bike geometries, offering lower stack/reach ratios that might not be everyone’s cup of tea. For a truly comfortable, upright posture, I advocate for a gravel bike boasting a stack/reach ratio of 1.5 or higher. This way, you’re set for both comfort and performance, making your bikepacking journey not just doable, but enjoyable.
Gravel race bikes often feature shorter chainstays and wheelbases, optimizing them for speed and agility. On the flip side, gravel bikes designed with bikepacking in mind tend to boast longer chainstays and wheelbases, enhancing their stability and load-carrying capabilities for the long haul.
Below, you’ll find a selection of gravel bikes that excel in racing scenarios more so than in bikepacking adventures.
Following that, we spotlight two standout gravel bikes, each meticulously engineered to thrive on bikepacking journeys. These models exemplify gravel touring-specific geometry to deliver comfort, making them ideal companions for your off-road explorations.
Delving into the specifics of their geometries reveals why these bikes shine in the bikepacking arena. They feature extended wheelbases and chainstays, gearing optimized for uphill climbs while loaded with gear, and a taller stack/reach ratio alongside a longer front center measurement.
Below, you’ll find a comparison table showcasing the varied geometry measurements across these bikepacking-optimized gravel bikes.
The bikes highlighted within the red box are tailored for bikepacking, and a glance at the black boxes will show that their measurements tend to be larger, indicating their suitability for bikepacking over gravel racing bikes.
Gravel bikes designed with bikepacking in mind distinguish themselves with notably wider tire clearance. Though you can embark on a bikepacking adventure with a road bike—highlighting the adaptability of nearly any bicycle for such expeditions—the call of wild, uncharted paths makes a strong case for larger tires.
If your journey takes you on single tracks or less-traveled roads, having the capability to fit tires wider than 45c is invaluable. An ideal bikepacking gravel bike is equipped to handle tires up to 2.3″ wide, and certain models with 650b wheels can even accommodate up to 2.5″ tires.
In contrast, gravel bikes tailored for racing typically mount tires between 38 to 42c, whereas those prepped for bikepacking adventures are more likely to come standard with 50mm (approximately 2″ to 2.2″) tires, setting them apart as ready for the rigors of adventure.
Additionally, bikepacking gravel bikes are built with resilience in mind, featuring wheels that are designed to last. While racing gravel bikes may roll on 24-spoke wheels, bikepacking variants are often reinforced with 32-spoke wheels, offering enhanced durability to support the weight of gear and ensure reliability across varied landscapes.
The flared drop handlebars on bikepacking gravel bikes typically come with more degree flare—from 16° to 24° flare—while race gravel bikes may have less, at around 14°. It all depends on different bike builds, but this additional flare in the drops makes for more comfort and arm stretch on long rides.
Gravel bikes by nature tend to have underperforming climbing gears. They are not the best for climbing steep hills while the bike is loaded. They seem to be more oriented for speed on the flats and downhill, with all-road conditions.
But if you choose wisely, you can find relatively good climbing gears on some 1x and 2x gravel setups. The better climbing gravel bikes that I have come across tend to have about 22″ climbing gear, which is still not 18″ MTB territory.
This is what makes MTBs a more ideal bikepacking bike. You can slowly slog up hills with an easy climbing gear even on a loaded bike.
The Ideal Bikepacking Bike?
Unfortunately, a “gravel bike” is not really considered the ideal bikepacking bike. If you want a rig that is dedicated to bikepacking, you may want to look into hardtail mountain bikes. Some make the point that the flat bar offers better mounting options, and it is partly true that the flat bar offers nice and upright riding comfort.
But don’t get me wrong—you can find some gravel bikes that have all of the above criteria to make them more bikepacking capable.
Here is some more reading about some of the gravel bikes we recommend for adventure cycling. This article takes a look at some of the Best Gravel Bikes For Touring, which can be loosely related to bikepacking. However, the main difference is these bikes in this article are best suited to carry a rear rack with panniers.
I am personally a big fan of steel gravel bikes—this material is strong and forgiving when put to the test on bikepacking adventures. Also Drop Bar Mountain Bikes are a category worth further investigation.
On a budget? Want to find a bikepacking gravel bike but don’t want to spend all your hard-earned coin? Bikes like the 2021 Poseidon Redwood are the perfect option!
Can you ride a gravel bike on Singletrack?
It depends on your skill level and the type of gravel bike. I would not recommend riding a gravel bike with 45mm or slimmer tires.
Even with 50mm tires in a tube setup, you can expect punctures, especially on more gnarly singletrack sections.
It is very possible to ride on easier singletrack.
If you want a challenge, riding gravel bikes on singletrack can be fun! But again, it is ideal to ride a gravel bike that has clearance for 2.2 or 2.3″ MTB tires.
This helps tremendously with absorbing singletrack vibrations.
If you want to explore mostly steep, rocky, single-track terrains while bikepacking, then a hardtail or full-suspension MTB is your best bet. However, if you plan to ride a 33/33/33 mix of road, gravel, and some single-track, a “well-equipped” gravel bike is a plausible option! Meaning a gravel bike with all the above criteria.
Best Bikepacking Gravel Bikes Quick List
Best Premium Hand-Built Bikepacking Bike: Sklar SuperSomething (From $3,200 USD) California craftsmanship with custom geometry options, 700x50mm clearance, and choice of steel or titanium construction
Best UK Steel Adventure Bike: Fairlight Faran 3.0 (From £2,500 GBP) Reynolds 725 steel excellence with 700x53mm/650Bx62mm clearance and refined bikepacking geometry for 2025
Best Progressive Mountain-Gravel Hybrid: Hudski Doggler ($1,600-$2,200 USD) Modern mountain bike geometry on a lightweight gravel platform with dropper post and massive tire options
Best Updated Classic: Breezer Radar X ($969 USD) Proven do-it-all platform with 29×2.2″ capability and wide-range gearing at exceptional value
Best Budget Bikepacking Champion: Poseidon Redwood ($879.99 USD) Unbeatable value with 27.5×2.5″ tire clearance and incredible 21.88″ climbing gear
Best European Adventure Heritage: Bombtrack Hook EXT (Price varies) German engineering for wild places with comprehensive mounting options and proven reliability
Best Premium Carbon Innovation: ENVE MOG (From $5,500 USD) Cutting-edge carbon construction with adventure-optimized geometry and premium materials
Best Low-Maintenance Adventure: Priority Gemini Adventure ($1,799 USD) Belt drive system and modern design approach for hassle-free bikepacking
Most Unique Adventure Design: Wondercross Wanderer (Price varies) Specialized climbing geometry and innovative features for loaded touring
Best Ultra-Endurance Racing: Salsa Cutthroat ($5,999 USD) Drop-bar mountain bike engineered for Tour Divide racing with 2.4″ tire clearance
Best Modern Adventure Hybrid: Kona Ouroboros ($2,799-$6,999 USD) Next-generation gravel with mountain bike specs, suspension fork option, and 2.5″ tire capability
Best Purpose-Built Bikepacking: Canyon Grizl (Starting $1,599 USD) Designed specifically for gravel bikepacking with Apidura collaboration bags and optimized mounting
Best Entry-Level Adventure: Salsa Journeyer (Price varies) Accessible adventure cycling with proven Salsa geometry and versatile capability
Best Retro-Inspired Adventure: Haro Buzzard (Price varies) Classic aesthetics meet modern adventure capability
Best Mass-Market Reliability: Giant Revolt X (Price varies) Proven reliability with adventure-ready features and wide availability
Best Aerodynamic Adventure: 3T Exploro MAX ($4,599 USD) Road bike speed meets mountain bike durability with unique aerodynamic design
Best Italian Performance: Wilier Jena (€3,000 EUR) Ultralight carbon construction with racing-comfort geometry for fast adventures
Best All-Around Value: Marin Headlands 2 ($2,649.99 USD) Lightweight carbon with versatile tire clearance and quality components
Best Suspension Integration: Cannondale Topstone (Various prices) Innovative Kingpin suspension or Lefty fork options with proven reliability
Best Performance Balance: Jamis Renegade (Starting $2,599 USD) Speed and control for technical terrain with dropper post compatibility
Best Popular Choice: Trek Checkpoint (Various prices) Most sold gravel bike with IsoSpeed technology and proven adventure capability
Best Steel Value: Salsa Vaya GRX 600 ($2,299 USD) Triple-butted chromoly steel with quality Shimano GRX components
Best Monster Cross: All-City Gorilla Monsoon (Price varies) Beefed-up all-rounder for mixed pavement and gnarly terrain adventures
Best Australian Drop-Bar Mountain: Curve GMX (From $3,999 AUD) True drop-bar mountain bike with 2.4″ tire clearance for serious adventure
Best Touring Value: Masi Giramondo (Under $1,200 USD) Budget-friendly steel adventure with 3×10 drivetrain and extensive mounting options
Best Rugged Adventure: Bearclaw Thunderhawk (Price varies) Performance-minded 650b road plus bike for all-road adventures and bikepacking
Most Unique Steel Design: Crust Bombora (Frameset only) Hipster-approved monster cross with ultimate 650B customization potential
Best Drop-Bar Mountain Experience: Kona Sutra LTD ($3,499 USD) Mountain bike feel with road bike speed – the ultimate supple adventure machine
The BEST Bikepacking Gravel Bikes of 2025
Sklar SuperSomething
(Hand-built California craftsmanship for adventure)
The Sklar SuperSomething represents the pinnacle of American frame building craftsmanship, designed from the ground up using size-specific, double-butted, air-hardened 4130 Chromoly steel tubing with custom-forged dropouts and machined head tubes. This California-built machine offers exceptional customization options that set it apart from mass-produced alternatives.
What makes the SuperSomething special is Sklar’s approach to geometry optimization. Rather than scaling a single design across all sizes, each frame size receives its own geometry calculations to ensure optimal fit and handling characteristics. This attention to detail extends to tube selection, with different diameter and wall thickness specifications for each size to maintain consistent ride quality.
The frame features clearance for 700x50mm tires with room for fenders, making it ideal for year-round adventure cycling. Multiple mounting points throughout the frame accommodate full bikepacking setups, while the steel construction provides the compliance and durability that adventure cyclists demand. Sklar also offers titanium versions for riders seeking the ultimate in corrosion resistance and ride quality.
The SuperSomething’s versatility shines in its build options. Whether configured with a 1x drivetrain for simplicity or a 2x setup for maximum range, the bike adapts to different riding styles and terrain preferences. The custom nature means riders can specify everything from paint color to component selection, creating a truly personalized adventure machine.
Fairlight Faran 3.0
(British steel excellence refined for 2025)
The Fairlight Faran 3.0 receives significant updates for 2025, building on the already excellent foundation with enhanced tire clearance and improved load-carrying geometry. The frame now features a Reynolds 725 front triangle with custom butting profiles specifically designed for adventure cycling demands.
Key improvements include a new Reynolds 725 DZB downtube and an updated 28.6mm top tube, ovalized to 25 × 32mm dimensions for increased stability when carrying front loads. These changes address real-world bikepacking challenges, where frame flex under load can affect handling and comfort during long expeditions.
The updated clearance accommodating tires up to 700C x 53mm or 650B x 62mm opens up significantly more terrain possibilities compared to the previous generation. This increased clearance is particularly valuable for riders tackling rough gravel, forest service roads, or light singletrack while loaded with gear.
Fairlight’s attention to detail extends to the frame’s construction quality and finish. The Reynolds 725 steel provides excellent fatigue resistance and compliance, crucial characteristics for bikes that will see heavy use over varied terrain. The geometry strikes an excellent balance between stability under load and engaging handling when unloaded, making it equally suitable for day rides and multi-week expeditions.
Hudski Doggler
(Progressive mountain bike geometry on a gravel platform)
The Hudski Doggler represents what a modern “gravel bike” should be – not a “gravel racing bike” but a true gravel adventure machine that bridges the gap between drop bar road bikes and flat bar mountain bikes. The bike features long reach, short stem compatibility, wide bars, and low bottom bracket – all the trending mountain bike geometry buzzwords applied to a lightweight alloy frame and carbon fork.
The Doggler’s mission is simple: create a playful bike with progressive mountain bike geometry and up-to-date components on a lightweight platform that can hang with both the gravel crew and the XC crew. This versatility makes it an exceptional bikepacking platform, equally at home on smooth gravel roads and technical singletrack.
The bike features generous tire clearance and well-thought-out threaded mounting placements that make loading it up a breeze. With mountain bike-inspired geometry, a dropper seatpost from PNW Components, and wide bars sporting Oury grips, riders often feel like they’re on a hardtail mountain bike rather than a traditional gravel bike.
After extensive testing with both 700c x 50mm and 27.5 x 2.6″ tire options, the Doggler proves its versatility across different terrain types. The ability to swap between wheel sizes allows riders to optimize the bike for specific adventures – narrower 700c wheels for efficiency on gravel roads, or wider 27.5″ wheels with plus-sized tires for maximum traction and comfort on rough terrain.
Breezer Radar X
(Updated classic do-it-all adventure platform)
The Breezer Radar X builds on the proven Radar platform with updates that enhance its already impressive versatility. This is Breezer’s ultimate do-it-all bike, designed to tackle any terrain you might encounter during bikepacking adventures. The updated version maintains the characteristics that made the original Radar popular while incorporating modern improvements.
Equipped with 45mm all-condition tires as standard, the Radar X provides excellent traction and comfort on varied surfaces. However, the real story lies in its maximum tire capacity – up to 29 x 2.2″ mountain bike tires. This enormous clearance transforms the bike’s capability, allowing riders to tackle technical terrain that would challenge traditional gravel bikes.
The wide-range Shimano 2×9 drivetrain provides excellent gear ratios for both loaded climbing and efficient cruising on flat terrain. The 46/30T crank paired with a mountain bike-style cassette ensures you’ll have the gears needed for steep ascents while carrying full bikepacking loads. TRP disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all conditions, crucial for loaded riding.
The compact geometry strikes an excellent balance for adventure cycling. The frame design prioritizes stability and comfort over outright racing performance, making it ideal for riders who prioritize capability and comfort during long-distance adventures. Rack and fender mounts throughout the frame accommodate traditional touring setups alongside modern bikepacking bags.
Poseidon Redwood
(Budget champion with massive tire clearance)
The Poseidon Redwood stands as the undisputed champion of budget bikepacking bikes, offering features and capabilities that typically cost twice as much. This bike proves that serious adventure cycling doesn’t require a massive budget, combining massive tire clearance with excellent gearing at an almost unbelievable price point.
The Redwood’s most impressive feature is its tire clearance – accommodating up to 27.5×2.5″ tires gives it the largest tire clearance available in its price range and among the largest of any gravel bike regardless of price. This massive clearance enables the bike to handle terrain that would challenge much more expensive machines, from chunky gravel to light singletrack and even snow or sand conditions.
The Microshift Advent X drivetrain represents excellent value engineering, providing reliable 1×10 shifting with an impressive 11-48T cassette range. Combined with the 38T chainring, this setup delivers an incredible 21.88″ climbing gear – putting it near the top for gravel bikes in terms of climbing capability. This low gearing proves essential when tackling steep climbs while loaded with camping gear.
The frame features mounting options throughout, including fork mounts and compatibility with the Poseidon Adventure Bars that feature 24-degree flare for extra comfort during long rides. The 6061 aluminum construction provides durability while keeping costs down, and the double-butted tubing helps manage weight despite the budget-friendly price point.
Bombtrack Hook EXT
(German engineering for wild places)
Bombtrack describes the Hook EXT as the bike to take you to wild places fast, and this German-engineered machine delivers on that promise. The Hook EXT represents serious European adventure cycling heritage, combining practical design with proven reliability for demanding bikepacking expeditions.
The bike features comprehensive mounting options throughout the frame and fork, including front fork mounts, top-tube mounts, rear rack compatibility, and multiple bottle cage positions. This extensive mounting system allows riders to carry everything needed for extended self-supported adventures while maintaining proper weight distribution.
The steel construction provides the compliance and durability that adventure cyclists have relied on for decades. Steel’s self-healing properties and repairability make it ideal for remote area cycling, where a catastrophic failure could end an expedition. The material’s natural vibration damping also improves comfort during long days in the saddle over rough terrain.
Bombtrack’s attention to detail extends to practical features like internal cable routing, generous tire clearance, and geometry optimized for loaded riding. The Hook EXT’s design philosophy prioritizes function over form, resulting in a bike that excels in real-world adventure conditions where reliability and capability matter more than weight savings or racing performance.
ENVE MOG
(Premium carbon innovation for adventure cycling)
ENVE’s entry into adventure cycling represents a significant development, bringing the company’s premium carbon fiber expertise to the bikepacking and gravel touring market. The MOG (presumably standing for “Multi-surface Off-road Gravel”) demonstrates ENVE’s commitment to creating purpose-built adventure machines rather than simply adapting existing designs.
The carbon fiber construction provides several advantages for adventure cycling, including excellent vibration damping for comfort over long distances and varied terrain. ENVE’s manufacturing expertise ensures consistent quality and optimal fiber placement for the specific demands of loaded touring and rough surface riding.
The geometry reflects modern understanding of adventure bike design, balancing stability under load with engaging handling when unloaded. The longer wheelbase and relaxed angles provide confidence-inspiring handling when carrying full bikepacking loads, while the carbon construction maintains responsiveness for spirited riding on day trips.
ENVE’s reputation for wheel manufacturing translates to frame design expertise, with particular attention to areas like the bottom bracket, head tube, and dropout design. These critical junctions receive the engineering attention necessary for reliable performance under the varied stresses of adventure cycling, from smooth pavement to technical terrain.
Priority Gemini Adventure
(Modern belt drive approach to adventure cycling)
The Priority Gemini Adventure represents a modern approach to adventure cycling, incorporating a Gates belt drive system for virtually maintenance-free operation. This design philosophy prioritizes reliability and low maintenance over traditional derailleur systems, making it ideal for extended expeditions where mechanical issues could derail an adventure.
The belt drive system eliminates many of the maintenance concerns associated with traditional chain drivetrains. There’s no chain lubrication needed, no chain stretch to monitor, and significantly reduced wear on the drivetrain components. For bikepacking adventures in dusty, muddy, or sandy conditions, this represents a significant practical advantage.
The internal hub gearing provides reliable shifting performance regardless of conditions, with the ability to shift while stationary – a useful feature when starting up steep climbs or navigating technical terrain at low speeds. The gear range, while potentially narrower than some derailleur systems, is carefully chosen to provide adequate ratios for most adventure cycling scenarios.
The aluminum frame construction keeps costs reasonable while providing durability for loaded touring. The geometry emphasizes comfort and stability, recognizing that adventure cyclists prioritize long-distance comfort over racing performance. Multiple mounting points accommodate various luggage configurations for different adventure styles.
Wondercross Wanderer
(Specialized design for loaded climbing performance)
The Wondercross Wanderer takes a specialized approach to adventure bike design, focusing particularly on climbing performance when loaded with gear. This design philosophy recognizes that many bikepacking routes involve significant elevation gain, and that traditional gravel bike gearing often falls short when carrying camping equipment up steep grades.
The Wanderer’s geometry reflects this climbing focus, with features designed to maintain efficient power transfer and comfortable positioning during extended climbs. The frame design considers how a bike’s handling characteristics change when loaded with gear, particularly the effect of additional weight on climbing performance and stability.
Specialized gearing options ensure riders have the mechanical advantage needed for steep climbs while carrying full loads. This might include ultra-compact chainring options, wide-range cassettes, or creative drivetrain solutions that provide lower gearing than typically found on gravel bikes.
The bike’s design likely incorporates mounting solutions optimized for proper weight distribution, recognizing that cargo placement significantly affects climbing performance. Strategic mounting points help maintain the bike’s center of gravity and handling characteristics even when fully loaded for extended expeditions.
Salsa Cutthroat
(Drop-bar mountain bike for ultra-endurance racing)
The Salsa Cutthroat represents the ultimate evolution of fast bikepacking design, engineered specifically for ultra-endurance events like the Tour Divide while maintaining versatility for recreational adventure cycling. This carbon fiber machine successfully bridges the gap between mountain bike capability and gravel bike efficiency.
Salsa designed the Cutthroat from scratch rather than adapting existing designs, resulting in geometry that works perfectly for loaded riding at speed. The extended chainstays (445mm) and longer wheelbase (1,085mm) provide stability when carrying gear, while the 70-degree head angle and 73mm trail deliver predictable handling on technical descents.
The carbon construction keeps weight reasonable while providing the compliance necessary for long-distance comfort over varied terrain. Salsa’s carbon layup schedule considers the specific stresses of loaded touring, with reinforcement in key areas without unnecessary weight in others.
The SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain provides excellent range with the simplicity preferred for long-distance adventures. The 32T chainring paired with a 10-52T cassette delivers a usable 16.7″ climbing gear while maintaining reasonable top-end gearing for efficient cruising. The 1x system eliminates potential front derailleur issues while simplifying gear selection during challenging terrain.
The tire clearance accommodating up to 29×2.4″ provides genuine mountain bike capability while remaining efficient on smoother surfaces. This clearance allows riders to optimize tire selection for specific routes, from semi-slick treads for gravel grinding to aggressive knobs for technical singletrack sections.
Kona Ouroboros
(Next-generation gravel with mountain bike DNA)
The Kona Ouroboros features a 69.5-degree head tube angle with geometry blending gravel and XC mountain bike characteristics, 5 frame mounting points for accessories and frame bags, and tire clearance up to 2.5″ with rigid fork or 50c with suspension fork. While clearly a gravel bike based on tire clearance, it’s hard to ignore the mountain bike specifications including 31.6mm seat post diameter, SRAM UDH, 180mm rotors front and rear, options for front suspension, 2.1-inch tires, and dropper seat post capability.
Available in six sizes (48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58 cm) with three total build kits ranging from the Ouroboros CR at $2,799 USD to the Supreme at $6,999 USD, with the Supreme build featuring RockShox Rudy 40mm travel suspension. The aluminum version brings the platform under $2,000 USD with utilitarian build kit, suspension fork, dropper seatpost, and geometry right at home on burly backcountry missions.
The geometry features a wheelbase of 110.6cm with a fairly long 67.1cm front center, putting the front wheel further ahead of the rider than typical gravel bikes when positioned over the bottom bracket. This extended front center contributes to stability when loaded with gear and confidence-inspiring handling on technical descents.
The bike utilizes large 180mm brake rotors to help with stopping power, especially helpful as the bike is designed to carry gear on adventures. The Ouroboros positions itself between a hardtail mountain bike and traditional gravel bikes, offering electronic build options with SRAM AXS Force in the Supreme specification.
Canyon Grizl
(Purpose-built for gravel bikepacking adventures)
Canyon designed the Grizl specifically for gravel bikepacking rather than adapting an existing platform, resulting in a machine perfectly suited for loaded adventures. All Grizl models come equipped with wide 45mm rubber as standard, with clearance for up to 50mm tires to handle varied terrain conditions.
Canyon’s approach prioritizes practical functionality over unnecessary features, including only the right number of frame and fork mounting points that riders will actually use during bikepacking adventures. This thoughtful approach avoids the complexity and weight of excessive mounting hardware while ensuring essential cargo attachment points are available.
The collaboration with Apidura represents a significant advantage for Grizl owners, offering fully waterproof, highly durable packs tailored specifically to the Grizl’s geometry and mounting points. These custom bags optimize cargo placement and capacity while maintaining the bike’s handling characteristics and aerodynamic efficiency.
The geometry balances comfort and performance with particular attention to loaded stability. The 1.53 stack/reach ratio provides an upright riding position for long-distance comfort, while the 435mm chainstays and 1,050mm wheelbase deliver predictable handling when carrying gear. The frame design considers how additional weight affects the bike’s center of gravity and handling dynamics.
Canyon’s direct-to-consumer model allows them to offer high-quality components and construction at competitive prices, making serious bikepacking capability accessible to more riders. The various build levels accommodate different budgets while maintaining the core capabilities that make the Grizl effective for loaded adventures.
Salsa Journeyer
(Accessible adventure cycling from Salsa’s proven lineup)
The Salsa Journeyer replaces the discontinued Journeyman as Salsa’s entry-level adventure platform, maintaining the characteristics that made its predecessor popular while incorporating refinements based on years of rider feedback. This bike represents Salsa’s philosophy that adventure cycling should be accessible regardless of budget.
Salsa’s geometry expertise, developed through decades of adventure cycling innovation, ensures the Journeyer delivers proper handling characteristics for loaded touring despite its entry-level positioning. The frame design incorporates lessons learned from higher-end models while maintaining cost-effectiveness through smart material choices and component selection.
The dual wheel size capability allows riders to optimize the bike for different adventure styles. The 700c x 37mm option prioritizes efficiency for gravel road touring and light adventure cycling, while the 650b x 2.1″ setup transforms the bike’s capability for rougher terrain and technical singletrack adventures.
The steel construction provides the compliance and repairability that many adventure cyclists prefer, particularly for remote area touring where aluminum or carbon repairs might prove challenging. Steel’s natural vibration damping improves comfort during long days over rough surfaces, while the material’s durability ensures years of reliable service under demanding conditions.
Haro Buzzard
(Retro-inspired design with modern adventure capability)
The Haro Buzzard combines classic mountain bike aesthetics with modern gravel capability, creating a unique platform that appeals to riders seeking both performance and distinctive styling. This bike represents Haro’s return to their mountain bike heritage while embracing contemporary adventure cycling trends.
The retro-inspired design doesn’t compromise modern functionality, incorporating current understanding of adventure bike geometry and component integration. The steel frame provides classic ride characteristics while accommodating modern drivetrain and braking systems that improve reliability and performance over older designs.
Haro’s heritage in mountain bike design informs the Buzzard’s approach to handling rough terrain, with geometry and construction techniques that prioritize durability and confidence-inspiring handling over pure efficiency. This makes the bike particularly well-suited for adventure routes that include significant off-road sections.
The aesthetic appeal of the Buzzard shouldn’t be underestimated – many adventure cyclists appreciate bikes that stand out from the increasingly homogeneous gravel bike market. The distinctive styling combined with genuine capability creates a bike that performs as well as it looks, making it suitable for both adventure touring and daily riding.
Giant Revolt X
(Mass-market reliability with adventure-ready features)
The Giant Revolt X represents the advantages of mass-market engineering and manufacturing, delivering reliable adventure capability with the support network and availability that comes from a major manufacturer. Giant’s global presence ensures parts availability and service support worldwide, crucial considerations for serious adventure cyclists.
Giant’s engineering expertise, developed through decades of bicycle manufacturing across all cycling disciplines, informs every aspect of the Revolt X’s design. The aluminum frame construction balances weight, durability, and cost-effectiveness while the carbon fork reduces weight and improves ride quality without significantly increasing price.
The component specifications across different Revolt X models provide options for various budgets while maintaining core adventure capabilities. Giant’s relationships with component manufacturers allow them to offer quality drivetrains, brakes, and accessories at competitive prices, making serious adventure capability accessible to more riders.
The geometry prioritizes long-distance comfort and loaded stability over pure racing performance, recognizing the specific demands of adventure cycling. Multiple mounting points throughout the frame accommodate various cargo solutions, while the tire clearance allows optimization for different terrain types and adventure styles.
3T Exploro MAX
(Aerodynamic adventure with maximum tire clearance)
The 3T Exploro MAX takes aerodynamic efficiency seriously while providing genuine adventure capability through massive tire clearance. This combination of speed and versatility makes it unique in the adventure cycling market, appealing to riders who want to cover distance quickly without sacrificing terrain capability.
The MAX version specifically addresses tire clearance limitations of the standard Exploro, accommodating 650B wheels with up to 61mm tires. This enormous clearance rivals dedicated adventure touring bikes while maintaining the aerodynamic advantages of 3T’s unique tube shaping and integrated cockpit design.
The 650B wheel size with large volume tires provides excellent comfort and traction characteristics while maintaining reasonable rolling efficiency on smooth surfaces. The smaller wheel diameter also allows for more aggressive tire profiles without compromising pedaling clearance, opening up terrain options that might challenge 700c-equipped bikes.
3T’s focus on aerodynamics doesn’t compromise the bike’s adventure credentials. The frame includes necessary mounting points for cargo while the geometry balances aerodynamic efficiency with stability and comfort requirements for long-distance loaded riding. The result is a bike that excels at both fast gravel events and multi-day adventures.
Wilier Jena
(Italian performance engineering for fast adventures)
The Wilier Jena represents Italian performance engineering applied to adventure cycling, creating a machine that prioritizes speed and efficiency while maintaining capability for loaded touring and exploration. Wilier’s racing heritage informs every aspect of the design, from the ultralight carbon construction to the refined geometry.
The extraordinarily light 1kg frame weight demonstrates Wilier’s carbon fiber expertise while maintaining the structural integrity necessary for adventure cycling demands. This weight saving translates to improved climbing performance and reduced fatigue during long adventure rides, particularly beneficial when carrying additional gear weight.
Wilier describes the Jena as designed to provide more freedom of choice when riding, equally capable of performance on dirt roads and singletrack, adventure cycling, exploration, and bikepacking. The racing-comfort geometry design balances aggressive positioning for efficiency with endurance-oriented comfort for long-distance adventures.
The bike’s versatility extends to its adaptability for different riding styles and terrain conditions. While optimized for performance, the Jena includes mounting options and tire clearance necessary for adventure cycling, making it suitable for riders who want a fast bike that can also handle loaded touring when needed.
Marin Headlands 2
(Lightweight carbon all-rounder with versatile clearance)
The Marin Headlands 2 represents Marin’s expertise in adventure cycling applied to a lightweight carbon platform. Marin took everything they learned from their aluminum Gestalt X gravel bikes and incorporated that knowledge into this full-carbon adventure machine, creating their lightest beyond-road bike to date.
The carbon construction provides excellent vibration damping for improved comfort over long distances and varied terrain, while maintaining the responsiveness that makes the bike engaging to ride unloaded. Marin’s carbon layup schedule considers the specific stresses of adventure cycling, with appropriate reinforcement in key areas.
The dual tire size capability (700c x 45mm or 650b x 50mm) provides versatility for different adventure styles and terrain conditions. The 700c option prioritizes efficiency for gravel road touring and faster-paced adventures, while the 650b option with larger volume tires improves comfort and traction for rougher terrain.
Marin’s geometry expertise, developed through decades of mountain bike and adventure cycling innovation, ensures the Headlands 2 delivers proper handling characteristics for both loaded and unloaded riding. The frame design balances stability under load with engaging handling for spirited riding on day trips and lighter adventures.
Cannondale Topstone
(Innovation leader with suspension integration options)
The Cannondale Topstone represents one of the most innovative approaches to adventure cycling, offering multiple platforms that cater to different rider preferences and terrain requirements. The range includes everything from the standard Topstone with Kingpin suspension to the radical Lefty-equipped models that bring mountain bike suspension technology to gravel cycling.
The signature KingPin suspension system uses a pivot in the seat tube that allows the rear triangle to flex, providing 30mm of compliance to smooth rough surfaces without the complexity and weight of traditional rear suspension. This system maintains pedaling efficiency while improving comfort and traction on rough gravel and light singletrack.
For riders seeking more aggressive terrain capability, Cannondale offers Lefty-equipped models that provide genuine front suspension with 30-40mm of travel. The Lefty fork’s unique single-sided design reduces weight compared to traditional suspension forks while providing proven reliability and performance from Cannondale’s mountain bike heritage.
The carbon construction across the Topstone range provides excellent ride quality and durability while keeping weight reasonable for loaded touring. Cannondale’s BallisTec carbon layup schedule considers the specific demands of adventure cycling, with appropriate stiffness and compliance characteristics for different frame areas.
Jamis Renegade
(Performance balance for technical adventure cycling)
The Jamis Renegade represents a performance-oriented approach to adventure cycling, blending speed and control for riders who want to tackle technical terrain efficiently. This bike prioritizes engaging handling and responsive performance while maintaining the capability necessary for loaded adventures.
The carbon fiber construction keeps weight low while providing the compliance necessary for comfort over varied terrain. Jamis optimizes the carbon layup for adventure cycling demands, balancing stiffness for efficient power transfer with compliance for comfort during long days over rough surfaces.
Dropper post compatibility sets the Renegade apart from many adventure bikes, providing the ability to quickly lower the saddle for technical descents or challenging terrain. This feature, borrowed from mountain biking, significantly improves confidence and control when navigating difficult sections while loaded with gear.
The dual wheel size capability allows optimization for different adventure styles and terrain conditions. The 700c option with up to 50mm tires provides efficiency for gravel grinding and road sections, while the 650B option with 2.0″ tires transforms the bike’s capability for technical singletrack and challenging off-road terrain.
Trek Checkpoint
(Market leader with proven IsoSpeed technology)
The Trek Checkpoint has become one of the most recognizable bikes in the gravel and adventure cycling market, with widespread adoption that speaks to its fundamental competence across varied riding conditions. Trek’s IsoSpeed technology represents a significant innovation in adventure bike design, providing compliance benefits without traditional suspension complexity.
The IsoSpeed decoupler at the top tube/seat tube junction allows the seat tube to flex independently from the main triangle, providing additional compliance over rough terrain while maintaining pedaling efficiency. This system reduces fatigue during long rides over varied surfaces, crucial for multi-day adventures and loaded touring.
Trek’s OCLV carbon construction represents decades of carbon fiber refinement, with layup schedules optimized for the specific demands of adventure cycling. The material provides excellent vibration damping while maintaining the stiffness necessary for efficient power transfer and predictable handling under load.
The widespread availability of the Checkpoint provides significant practical advantages for adventure cyclists, including global parts and service support, extensive dealer networks, and proven reliability across varied conditions. This support infrastructure can be crucial during extended adventures or when traveling internationally.
Salsa Vaya GRX 600
(Steel heritage with modern component integration)
The Salsa Vaya GRX 600 combines Salsa’s steel frame heritage with modern component integration, creating a machine that bridges traditional touring aesthetics with contemporary adventure cycling capability. The triple-butted Sanko chromoly steel construction provides the compliance and durability that have made steel the preferred material for serious adventure cycling.
The high-quality Shimano GRX gravel groupset represents purpose-built components designed specifically for gravel and adventure cycling demands. The GRX system provides reliable shifting performance across varied terrain conditions while offering gear ratios optimized for both loaded climbing and efficient cruising on mixed surfaces.
The impressive 475% gear range provides versatility for varied terrain and loading conditions, with the 24.18″ climbing gear offering genuine low-speed climbing capability when fully loaded. This range ensures riders have appropriate gearing for everything from steep mountain passes to fast gravel road sections.
The carbon fork reduces weight and improves ride quality while the steel frame provides the repairability and compliance that many adventure cyclists prefer. This combination balances modern performance with traditional reliability, creating a bike that works equally well for weekend adventures and extended expeditions.
All-City Gorilla Monsoon
(Monster cross capability for mixed terrain adventures)
The All-City Gorilla Monsoon lives up to its “Monster Cross” designation, providing a beefed-up platform that handles mixed pavement and single-track adventures with equal competence. All-City describes this machine as capable of handling everything from long mixed surface rides to fire road touring, camping trips, and even continental crossings.
The steel construction provides the durability and compliance that adventure cyclists have relied on for decades, with the material’s self-healing properties and repairability making it ideal for remote area cycling. The robust frame design can handle the stresses of loaded touring while providing the comfort necessary for long days over varied terrain.
The generous tire clearance enables genuine monster cross capability, accommodating tires large enough to handle technical terrain while maintaining efficiency on smoother surfaces. This versatility allows riders to optimize tire selection for specific adventures, from semi-slick treads for gravel grinding to aggressive knobs for technical trail sections.
The geometry represents a carefully balanced approach to adventure cycling, providing stability under load while maintaining engaging handling characteristics. The longer wheelbase and relaxed angles inspire confidence when carrying gear, while the overall design remains responsive enough for spirited riding on day trips and lighter adventures.
Curve GMX
(Australian drop-bar mountain bike engineering)
The Curve GMX represents Australian engineering expertise applied to drop-bar mountain bike design, creating a machine that truly bridges the gap between traditional gravel bikes and mountain bikes. With clearance for up to 2.4″ tires on a 29er setup, the GMX provides genuine mountain bike capability with drop-bar efficiency and comfort.
Built for long and rough adventures, fast off-road touring, and weekend exploration in challenging terrain, the GMX doesn’t compromise on capability. The frame features an oversized triangle design that accommodates large frame bags while providing mounting points for water bottles and additional gear, crucial for extended self-supported adventures.
The specialized fork design includes triple M5 mounts specifically designed for large cargo cages or Rocket Pooches, demonstrating Curve’s attention to the practical needs of adventure cyclists. These mounting options allow riders to carry substantial gear loads while maintaining proper weight distribution and bike handling.
Available as a frameset, the GMX allows riders to build their ultimate adventure machine with component specifications tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This approach ensures optimal gearing, braking, and accessory integration for individual riding styles and terrain preferences.
Masi Giramondo
(Budget-friendly steel adventure with extensive mounting)
The Masi Giramondo represents exceptional value for adventure cyclists seeking steel construction and extensive mounting options without the premium pricing of boutique manufacturers. This budget-friendly platform provides genuine adventure capability with traditional touring aesthetics and proven reliability.
The all-steel construction includes both frame and fork, providing consistent ride characteristics and the repairability that makes steel ideal for remote area cycling. The material choice prioritizes durability and compliance over weight savings, creating a bike that improves with age and handles the stresses of loaded touring admirably.
The Shimano Deore 3×10 drivetrain may not represent the latest technology, but it provides proven reliability and extensive gear range crucial for adventure cycling. The triple chainring setup ensures adequate gearing for steep climbs while loaded, while the robust construction handles the additional stresses of touring and adventure use.
Bar-end shifters provide reliable shifting performance and easy maintenance, with the added benefit of hand position variety during long rides. This component choice reflects practical considerations over pure performance, prioritizing functionality and reliability in varied conditions over weight savings or aerodynamic efficiency.
Bearclaw Thunderhawk
(Performance-minded 650b road plus adventure machine)
Bearclaw describes the Thunderhawk as a performance-minded 650b road plus bike equipped to handle all-road adventure rides, mixed-terrain endurance races, gravel grinders, and long bikepacking trips. This versatility stems from thoughtful geometry and component integration that balances performance with adventure capability.
Available in two build levels – the high-end Force 1 with hydraulic disc brakes and the more accessible Rival 1 with mechanical disc brakes – the Thunderhawk accommodates different budgets while maintaining core capabilities. Both options provide reliable performance with component selections appropriate for their respective price points.
The comprehensive mounting options throughout the frame and fork accommodate various cargo solutions, from traditional racks and panniers to modern bikepacking bags. This flexibility allows riders to choose luggage systems based on their specific adventure requirements and preferences.
The impressive tire clearance accommodating either 700x50c or 650x60c tires provides genuine versatility for different terrain conditions and riding preferences. The 650B option with 2.35″ tires transforms the bike’s capability for technical terrain while the 700c option prioritizes efficiency for gravel grinding and road sections.
Crust Bombora
(Unique steel monster cross design)
The Crust Bombora represents one of the most distinctive approaches to monster cross design, available only as a frameset to allow complete customization of the final build. This California-designed frame embodies the creative spirit of the monster cross movement while providing genuine adventure capability.
The steel construction prioritizes ride quality and durability over weight savings, creating a platform that rewards long-distance riding with improved comfort and reduced fatigue. The material choice also ensures excellent repairability, crucial for riders who venture into remote areas where frame damage could otherwise end an adventure.
Available only as a frameset, the Bombora allows builders to create their ultimate vision of a 650B gravel machine. This approach ensures optimal component integration and allows riders to prioritize specific characteristics like climbing ability, comfort, or technical terrain performance based on their individual preferences.
The geometry optimization for 650B wheels with large volume tires provides excellent comfort and traction characteristics while maintaining reasonable efficiency on smoother surfaces. This wheel and tire combination excels in mixed terrain conditions where versatility matters more than outright speed or efficiency.
Kona Sutra LTD
(Ultimate drop-bar mountain bike experience)
The Kona Sutra LTD represents the successful realization of Kona’s vision to create a drop bar bike that feels like a mountain bike, rides like a mountain bike, but maintains the efficiency and comfort advantages of drop bar positioning. This unique combination creates an adventure machine unlike anything else in the market.
Built with Reynolds 853 steel, the Sutra LTD provides the premium ride quality that this high-end steel is known for, with excellent vibration damping and fatigue resistance that improves comfort during long adventures over rough terrain. The material’s strength allows for thinner wall thickness and reduced weight without sacrificing durability.
The mountain bike-inspired geometry provides handling characteristics that feel familiar to riders transitioning from flat bar mountain bikes while maintaining the aerodynamic and hand position advantages of drop bars. This combination proves particularly effective for technical terrain where precise handling and control are crucial.
The Shimano XT 1×11 drivetrain provides mountain bike quality and reliability with gearing optimized for loaded climbing and varied terrain conditions. The 18.7″ climbing gear ensures adequate mechanical advantage for steep ascents while carrying camping gear, while the overall range provides versatility for different terrain types and riding speeds.
About The Author
