The gravel sector has exploded with bike options and, while choice can be a good thing, it's created a tricky landscape to navigate – particularly for the new buyer just entering the discipline. One-model gravel lineups are no longer commonplace, with manufacturers now creating distinct lineups with individual bikes aimed at various gravel offshoots. This means you'll see road bike-style options with bigger tyre clearances, inbetweeners that balance pseudo-suspension with weight and speed, and models that closely resemble mountain bikes of yesteryear.
It's confusing to say the least, but the gravel cycling discipline and terrain are so diverse depending on where you live, ride and race; sometimes you need a specific tool for the job at hand – a scissor can prune a tree, but a pair of secateurs will do a better job in less time.
