How To Choose Your Gravel Bike

Gravel bikes have exploded in popularity over the last decade – and for good reason. They’re built for the road less travelled, capable of taking on tarmac, trail, towpath and everything in between. The beauty of gravel is choice – different frame materials, builds and setups give you a ride that’s tuned to your style, your terrain, and your budget.

This guide walks you through the Ribble gravel range, breaking down the strengths of each bike so you can pick the one that’s right for you.

Think of a gravel bike as the sweet spot between a road bike and a mountain bike. Fast and efficient on hardpack and tarmac. Stable and composed when the surface turns rough. They’ve got the speed for the straights, the grip for the loose stuff, and the mounts to carry everything you need for the long haul.

Versatility is the reason gravel bikes have taken over. One bike. Any road. Every adventure.

Built for riders who want the confidence to go further, ALLGRIT E AL is a natural-feeling electric gravel experience. Light, capable and ready for anything, it means you can bring more to every ride. This electric gravel bike looks, feels, and rides like a non-assisted bike but with the added beneft of pedal assistance.

What You'll Love

• Electric Confidence – Stealth-integrated motor and battery deliver up to 90km range, 150km with the extender, plus 45Nm torque, all from just 13.9kg.
• Adventure Versatility – 50mm tyre clearance, full rack and fork mounts, and bar options to match your route and riding style.
• Comfort & Control – Hydroformed alloy frame, carbon fork, and balanced geometry keep you composed when the trail gets rough.
• Smart, Simple Integration – Discreet controls, fully hidden cables, and over-the-air updates for a clean look and future-ready performance.

Ideal for - those who want the versatility of a gravel bike with the added convenience of pedal assistance to extend their rides and easily conquer challenging terrain.

The pure gravel race bike. Developed from our ULTRA-RACE platform with aero shaping, lightweight carbon, and race-tuned geometry for maximum speed and efficiency on any surface.

What You'll Love

• Aero Advantage – Aero tube profiles, fully internal cable routing, and integrated cockpit options help you cut through headwinds and hold speed on any surface.
• Race-Tuned Handling – Race-optimised geometry, flex stays, and an asymmetric seat tube keep you composed in fast corners and on rough descents.
• Light & Efficient – 30T/33T carbon layup with M46 fibres delivers ultra-low weight, high stiffness, and maximum power transfer.
• Endurance Integration – 50mm tyre clearance, internal down tube storage, smart mounting points, and UDH compatibility for epic adventures.

Best for: Gravel racing, ultra-distance events, and riders who want maximum performance.

For riders who measure their rides in memories, not minutes. ALLGRIT TI-X is timeless adventure made real. Strong, composed, and built for the long way round, again and again. Titanium’s unmatched durability meets modern design to deliver a ride that feels as good on day one as it will decades from now.

What You'll Love

• Contemporary but Timeless – 3Al–2.5V titanium with 3D-printed joints delivers vibration-dampened comfort and a refined, smooth ride that’s built to last.
• Built to Endure – Corrosion-resistant titanium, internal cable routing, T47 bottom bracket, and SRAM UDH compatibility keep it reliable for thousands of kilometres.
• Refined Versatility – Ready for racks, guards, and luggage, with 1x or 2x drivetrain options and 50mm tyre clearance — all without losing its clean lines.
• Composed Handling – Adventure-tuned geometry and cockpit flexibility keep it stable and agile, whether fully loaded or stripped back.

Ideal for - riders who desire a high-performance, robust, and comfortable bike built to last a lifetime wihtout compromising aesthetics or ride quality.

From daily detours to cross-country escapes, ALLGRIT AL is your ticket to ride free. Confident, comfortable, and equipped for the unexpected, it’s built to turn any trail into a path worth taking. Lightweight alloy meets adventure-ready versatility for a bike that thrives on variety.

What You'll Love

• All-Day Comfort – Hydroformed 7005 aluminium frame and carbon fork, with endurance geometry and 50mm tyre clearance for long days and smooth miles.
• Adventure-Ready Versatility – Racks, mudguards, fork mounts, bottle cages, 1x or 2x drivetrain options, and UDH compatibility, ready for whatever comes next.
• Confident Handling – T47 bottom bracket, integrated headset, and adaptable bar options for direct control on everything from fire roads to rough tracks.
• Durable Efficiency – Lightweight, aero-influenced alloy frame with internal cable routing for fast performance and lasting value.

Ideal for - riders looking for a quick, agile gravel bike that offers stability and control on challenging singletrack and trails. Its versatility suits various riding styles, from gravel adventures to daily commutes.

Reynolds 725 steel, adventure-ready geometry, and the kind of ride quality steel fans rave about. The Gravel 725 is made for comfort and character – the bike you want for a week-long bikepacking trip or a day of exploring backroads.

What You'll Love

• Ride Feel - Steel’s natural spring smooths out the chatter and soaks up the bumps.
• Built-in Adventure - Rack and cage mounts for carrying everything from camping gear to extra water.
• Future Proof - Internal cable routing, Di2 and dropper-ready.
• 1x Compatible - Engineered exclusively to accept single-ring drivetrains only.

Ideal for - Riders who value comfort and all-day capability over chasing KOMs.

What Is The Best Gravel Bike For Beginners?

ALLGRIT AL – stable, durable, versatile, and ready for upgrades.

How Do You Maintain A Gravel Bike?

Maintaining a gravel bike involves several key steps:

Cleaning – Regularly clean the bike frame, chain, and drivetrain to remove dirt, mud, and debris that can cause premature wear and tear. Lubrication – Apply lubricant to the chain and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust. Tyre Check – Inspect the tyres for wear, cuts, punctures, and proper inflation. Gravel riding can be tough on tyres, so ensure they are in good condition before each ride. Brake Inspection – Check the brake pads and discs for wear and ensure they function correctly. Bolt Tightening – Regularly check and tighten bolts, especially after rough rides, to ensure that all components remain secure.

Can A Gravel Bike Be Used For Daily Commuting?

Yes, a gravel bike is an excellent option for daily commuting. Its versatility allows it to handle everything from smooth roads to gravel paths. Most gravel bikes, like the Gravel AL and Gravel 725, have built-in mounts for racks and fenders, making it easy to carry your essentials and stay protected from road spray. The comfortable geometry also makes longer commutes more enjoyable.

How Does A Gravel Bike Differ From A Road Bike?

Gravel bikes are designed to be more versatile than road bikes. They typically have a more relaxed geometry for more stability over uneven terrain, wider tyre clearance to accommodate off-road tyres, and additional mounts for carrying gear. Gravel bikes also have disc brakes for better-stopping power in varied conditions and are built to handle rougher terrains, whereas road bikes are optimised for speed and smooth surfaces.

What Type Of Terrain Can A Gravel Bike Handle?

Gravel bikes are designed to handle various terrains, including compacted gravel paths, forest trails, dirt roads, and even moderately challenging off-road tracks. They offer the agility and speed of a road bike with the stability and ruggedness needed for off-road adventures. However, a dedicated mountain bike would be more suitable for extremely technical mountain bike trails.

Do Gravel Bikes Need Special Tyres?

Yes, gravel bikes typically use tyres that are wider than road bike tyres, usually ranging from 35 mm to 50 mm, to provide better grip and stability on loose and rough surfaces. These tyres often have aggressive tread patterns to suit more challenging terrain or one that balances rolling efficiency on smooth surfaces with grip on loose or uneven terrain. Tubeless tyres are also popular for gravel bikes, as they reduce the risk of punctures and allow for lower tyre pressure to improve traction and comfort.

Can I Use A Gravel Bike For Long-Distance Touring?

Absolutely! Gravel bikes are well-suited for long-distance touring, especially models like the Gravel 725 and Gravel Ti, which come with multiple mounts for carrying luggage, water bottles, and other gear. Their comfort-oriented geometry and ability to handle diverse terrains make them an ideal choice for mixed surface touring adventures, whether on paved roads or off-the-beaten-path trails.

What Is The Advantage Of An Electric Gravel Bike Like The Gravel ALe?

An electric gravel bike such as the Gravel AL e offers pedal assistance, making it easier to tackle steep climbs, long distances, and energy-sapping headwinds. This can be particularly advantageous for riders who want to extend their range, explore more challenging terrains, or simply enjoy a more relaxed ride. The added power can help you maintain a steady pace and conserve energy on longer rides.

How Do I Choose The Right Frame Material For My Gravel Bike?

The choice of frame material depends on your riding style and preferences:

Steel (Gravel 725): For a comfortable, supple ride with excellent vibration absorption. Ideal for long-distance touring and rugged adventures. Aluminum (Gravel AL): This lightweight and stiff frame allows for efficient power transfer. It's a great entry-level option, offering a great blend of durability and performance. Carbon (Gravel SL): Delivers the lightest weight and the highest stiffness for racing and high-speed riding. It's best for riders who prioritise speed and performance. Titanium (Gravel Ti): Combines the best of both worlds with a lightweight, durable frame that offers a smooth ride. Perfect for those seeking a bike for life with unmatched comfort and strength.

How Do I Set Up My Gravel Bike For Bikepacking?

To set up your gravel bike for bikepacking, consider the following:

Luggage Mounts: Utilise built-in mounts on the frame and forks to attach racks, bags, and water bottles. Handlebar Bags: These offer easy access to essential items while riding. **Frame Bags: ** Used to store heavier items centrally, maintaining the bike's balance and handling. Rear Racks: A rear rack can carry larger bags for sleeping gear, clothing items and other essentials for longer trips. Tyre Choice: Opt for wider, durable tyres suitable for the terrain you'll be tackling.

If the onset of winter heralds a sudden urge to train indoors, our guide will help you to work out how to fit Ribble bikes to most models of trainers.

Should you decide to brave the cold, we definitely recommend fitting mudguards. Discover how to fit them to disc brake bikes here.