00:00 The gravel world is now populated with gravel race bikes, gravel adventure bikes,
00:04 and some that just sit in the middle. To help, we've pulled together our favourite models,
00:09 and the ones which we would recommend for 2024.
00:12 Winner of our Gravel Bike of the Year test, the Giant Revolt stands to be a fantastic option for
00:24 riders who really do want a bike with a split personality. The Revolt stands out thanks to
00:30 its ability to cater to a wide range of preferences. It boasts unique features such
00:35 as the versatile seatpost setup, compatibility with both proprietary and round seatposts,
00:40 meaning it offers increased options for suspension seatposts. The adjustable rear
00:45 dropouts enhance its functionality, allowing for aggressive racing performance in the short position
00:51 and improved stability in the long position. This functionality is only compounded by the wide tyre
00:57 clearance. There's ample mounting points on the frame which further increase its utilitarian
01:02 nature for carrying gear. The Revolt impresses with its exceptional frame compliance, effectively
01:09 absorbing impacts while maintaining lateral stiffness for precise handling. It's competitive
01:14 on price, starting at under £3,000 for the base model and £5,500 for the top-end
01:20 version. This makes it a very attractive proposition. However, its relatively high
01:26 headtube stack at 586mm might limit customisation for some riders. Nonetheless, the Revolt's
01:34 exceptional performance across various terrains solidifies its position as a standout gravel bike,
01:39 demonstrating its prowess in both racing and stability, earning it recognition and
01:44 appreciation in the industry and with customers alike.
01:47 The latest iteration of the Diverge gravel bike showcases a standout feature,
01:59 the all-new Rear Future Shock, which was designed to enhance rider comfort and bike balance.
02:04 Specialised engineers combined rear-end compliance with all the benefits of suspension
02:10 seatposts, creating a system that smoothly adjusts to uneven terrain while maintaining
02:15 saddle height. The bike's weight remains competitive, with the whole system adding
02:19 only 400g to the frame. Specialised offers various models in the Diverge STR line,
02:25 including the top-end S-Works version retailing at $14,000, and the Expert and Pro models priced
02:31 at $9,500 and $7,500 respectively. The bike boasts a fat 11R carbon frame set, Future Shock 2.0 in
02:40 the front and the innovative Rear Future Shock, providing ample tyre clearance and compatibility
02:46 with 650b x 2.1 or 700c x 47mm tyres. Despite its higher price point, the Diverge STR
02:55 suspension system effectively improves rider comfort, stability and traction, catering to
03:00 both racing and adventure enthusiasts. This bike will sit in the Halo category for many,
03:06 and we really don't love how much this bike costs. We also think that the fit and ride feel will take
03:12 some time to get used to and to set up. However, once dialled in, the STR works brilliantly on a
03:18 myriad of terrains and parkours. Canyon recently updated its
03:28 Grail gravel bike and has since gone on to garner significant attention after successful wins in
03:33 various races, but most importantly, the UCI Gravel World Champs. The new model reflects Canyon's
03:39 desire to improve gravel racing performance and aerodynamics, with a focus on streamlining the
03:45 bike and enhancing stability without compromising agility. The update includes changes to the tube
03:51 shapes, the handlebars and the seatpost, resulting in a saving of over 9 watts at 45km/h compared to
03:59 the previous version. The integration of in-frame storage and the introduction of the Load Fidlock
04:05 Quickloader further optimise the bike's functionality. Notably, the shift from the
04:10 double-decker bar to a traditional bar-stemmed steerer design has improved the rider experience,
04:15 especially in terms of handling and adaptability to different riding positions.
04:20 Canyon's emphasis on aerodynamics is evident in the streamlined design and the integration of the
04:26 gear groove on the handlebars, allowing for various accessories and aero extensions.
04:31 Despite early concerns about the lengthening of the wheelbase, we found the Grail maintains its
04:36 lively and agile feel, with enhanced stability in the corners and quick line changes on rough descents.
04:43 Canyon's CFR version offers additional carbon layout modifications for reduced weight and
04:50 increased stiffness, while the CFSL provides an entry-level option with fewer integrated features,
04:55 but at a more competitive price.
04:58 It's rare to find a bike in the sub-$1000 category, but the Triband 120 Gravel Bike
05:10 is known for its affordability and happily comes in well below that price threshold.
05:15 It offers practical features such as external cable routing,
05:19 mounts for mudguards and pannier racks, and a threaded bottom bracket.
05:23 Despite its limitations, including the absence of expected additional mounts and
05:28 less-than-ideal aesthetics, the bike's carbon fork and MicroShift 1x10 drivetrain,
05:33 with a built-in clutch, really do stand out at this price point.
05:37 The Pro Max DSK brakes, though competent, lack power and modulation,
05:43 but the Triband tubeless ready wheels do contribute to the bike's overall versatility.
05:48 While the bike handles well on moderate trails, its performance on rough terrain
05:52 is limited by a slightly skittish feel during descents.
05:55 As a commuter, the bike's slick centre tread and comfortable ride quality make it suitable for
06:00 urban use, although the gearing's gaps and braking performance might pose issues for some riders.
06:07 Priced at $899 or £599, the Triband 120 Gravel Bike represents incredibly good value for money,
06:15 but for those willing to spend a little more, the SawRespect V2 Substance V2 Gravel Bike
06:20 offers enhanced features and aesthetics for an additional cost.
06:24 The Triband 120 Gravel Bike remains a really good option for those who want to explore
06:29 what the world of gravel has to offer without forking out too much.
06:32 As seen in our top endurance bikes for 2024, the Vitus Venon Evo is potentially one of the
06:44 most versatile bikes out there. Designed to merge the features of endurance road bikes and gravel
06:49 bikes, its tyre clearance ranges from 28mm to 45mm, catering to different riding preferences.
06:57 The Evo GR version offers gravel-specific group sets, with higher-end models incorporating
07:02 aero components for enhanced speed on gravel paths. The bike features a monocoque frame with
07:08 a press-fit bottom bracket and integrated cable routing suitable for both mechanical
07:13 and electronic group sets. The design includes drop seat stays for added comfort and a geometry
07:18 that balances between endurance road bikes and more racy gravel bikes.
07:23 We love the Venon's aesthetic appeal, efficient riding experience and its handling on challenging
07:29 terrain, showcasing its versatility beyond its intended niche. Despite some limitations with
07:35 the handlebar's minimal space for additional attachments and the potential issue for the bike
07:41 skipping in strong crosswinds, the Vitus Venon Evo offers a well-rounded, value-for-money option
07:46 for riders looking for a versatile, high-performance bike.
07:49 Acknowledging that any slice of the gravel spectrum contains its own smaller spectrum,
08:00 we love it when a bike can do both gravel and tarmac really well. Much like the Vitus Venon,
08:06 the BMC Kias presents a great option for those looking to do a little bit of everything.
08:11 The BMC Kias takes things up another notch compared to its rivals. Sure, the frame is a
08:16 little heavier, but the riding position - and the ride itself - is even closer to that of a road
08:22 bike. It makes you wonder whether all road bikes really have a place anymore. The Kias is at least
08:28 an equal on tarmac, but still more capable off-road. The place of endurance road bikes
08:33 such as the Giant Defy and Trek Domane even starts to become questionable. But both those
08:38 brands are quite fortunate that the Kias isn't compatible with mudguards. Otherwise,
08:43 those questions would really start to be asked in earnest.
08:46 If you don't care about mudguards, though, a Kias with 35mm slick tyres - same as can be fitted to
08:52 a Defy or Domane - would be a weapon on the road, but would leave your gravel riding options wide
08:58 open. The newly launched Merida Silex has gained attention not only for its
09:08 anticipated debut, but also for Matej Mohoric's triumph at the 2023 UCI Gravel World Championships,
09:16 where he rode an unreleased version of the bike. With a focus on testing its capabilities,
09:22 the bike is promoted as an adventure option. Staying true to its original concept, the Silex
09:27 boasts a mountain bike-inspired geometry, making it versatile for commuting and bikepacking.
09:33 Merida has adjusted the Silex's geometry, providing a 69.5 degree head angle and increasing
09:40 tyre clearance to accommodate up to 45mm rubber, although slightly trailing behind its competitors
09:46 with a 50mm clearance option. The bike features ample mounting points for luggage and mudguards,
09:52 and is equipped with robust 180mm rotors, enhancing its braking power without significant
09:58 weight implications. When we tested the bike, the Silex showcased its impressive stability and
10:04 handling on various terrains, including challenging climbs and technical descents.
10:09 Despite its limitation on tyre clearance, the Silex remains an engaging and versatile option
10:14 for multiple riding styles, demonstrating its prowess in aiding Mohoric's win at the championships.
10:21 So there we have it, those are the top gravel bikes we think are worth considering
10:26 in 2024. Let us know, which of these bikes would you pick? If you enjoyed the video,
10:31 then please do drop it a like, subscribe to the channel for more content,
10:34 and we will see you again very soon.
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