All-road category: A bike for the whole world

​What exactly is an all-road bike?

Sporty, comfortable, off-road capable, versatile – all-road bikes are bikes for almost anything. They are designed for both road and light off-road use, for tarmac, cobblestones, field tracks and compact gravel paths. They differ from trekking bikes in their sporty geometry with drop handlebars, and from dedicated gravel bikes in their focus on efficiency and everyday use.

All-road bikes generally offer a comparatively upright riding position and space for tyres at least 32 millimetres wide. The frames are designed for durability and comfort. The level of integration is relatively low, making the bikes easy to maintain. Round seatposts and standardised stems and handlebars are frequently fitted, so that the riding position can be adjusted with minimal effort. All-road models perform well on varied terrain and often offer greater tyre clearance, suspension comfort and more comfortable geometries for a more upright riding position than pure road bikes.

Who is this bike best suited to?

All-road bikes are aimed at sporty riders who don’t want bikes designed purely for tarmac racing, and for whom practical mobility and everyday usability are more important than ambitious training sessions. They are ideal for touring cyclists, adventurers and commuters who value flexibility. Mudguards, lights and a luggage rack are provided as additional features for everyday use, and practical mounting points must be available.

Particularly during the transitional seasons, even tarmac paths are often muddy and not perfectly even. With an all-road bike, you can ride more comfortably and almost all year round. Unlike with dedicated gravel bikes, you don’t need to be able to ride absolutely anywhere – bumpy or even blocked trails are where the limits lie. In return, you get a very direct, zippy riding experience on tarmac. Park paths, forest tracks and simple gravel paths are no reason to turn back.

​How much does a good Allroad cost?

The price range is wide – and that’s good news: prices start at around 1,500 euros if you’re looking for typical gravel components such as a Shimano GRX drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes. From around 3,000 euros, you can expect a carbon frame. The only question is: do you want one? If you frequently ride with luggage, lock your bike to a public bike rack and generally prioritise all-round practicality over pure riding performance, you’re better off with an aluminium model.

​Checklist: What to look out for when buying

Example: The new Corratec Allroad A EQ

With the new Allroad A EQ, Corratec is targeting cyclists who want to combine gravel performance with everyday practicality. The designation ‘EQ’ stands for ‘Equipped’: mudguards and lights come as standard and are seamlessly integrated into the frame design.

An aluminium frame combined with a carbon fork, the Shimano GRX 10-speed groupset and 40-millimetre-wide Schwalbe G-One Overland tyres ensure reliable performance on tarmac, gravel and dirt tracks. The crankset with 46/30T chainrings and an 11–42-tooth cassette provide a gear range that covers both fast sections and steep climbs. Braking is handled by hydraulic Shimano GRX disc brakes – they’re reliable in all weather conditions.

Numerous mounting points allow for customised set-ups – from a compact commuter bike with minimal luggage to a bike for multi-day tours or light bikepacking. If you’re looking for a bike that’s equally at home on your commute, weekend rides and holiday trips, the Allroad A EQ offers a well-thought-out solution.