The lightweight carbon frameset is available in four different sizes, but they are quite close together. There are only around six centimetres between the top tube sizes S to XL, which could potentially cause problems for taller riders. Similar to the Bulls Machete and Marin Headlands 1, the handlebars are not far away, but positioned rather low. This allows you to sit more sportily than the STR values would suggest. In terms of weight distribution, this bike is one of the most balanced models. Although its wheelbase is similarly short to the Marin, it is not as heavily weighted towards the front wheel and is easier to control with a longer stem.
Conway GRV 9.0: also fine for short trips
The Conway is characterised by its front wheel, which offers a lot of grip on gravel and trails thanks to the most versatile tyres in the test. However, it tends to follow a trail a little, which could be overwhelming for beginners. The well-chosen handlebars with a flat drop and clear flare can only help to a limited extent. The GRV is ready for almost any kind of upgrades and conversions, as you can see from the great colour and high-contrast parts.
The black inlets and outlets for additional cables and cables as well as the sockets for a front derailleur stand out clearly. The mix of GRX 400, 600 and 800 parts was inconspicuous as long as no additional luggage was carried. However, the less stiff steering bearings and the mediocre seating comfort do not necessarily speak in favour of using it on longer tours. With a permissible total weight of 130 kilograms, the more favourable brakes also need to be operated more powerfully. However, the Conway is fine for quick short trips with panniers.
The short speedster was really fun, especially on more technically demanding trails, but thanks to the geometry on the upper handlebars, it's also possible to stroll, but too manoeuvrable and stiff for travelling. Tip: The lighter GRV 10.0 is available for 200 euros more with 22 gears.
More gravel bikes from the test
The Conway GRV 9.0 in detail
- Price: 2799 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 9.52 kilos
- Frame sizes: 45 / 47 / 49 / 50 cm (test size greased)
- Note: 2,4
Features of the Conway GRV 9.0
- Brakes: Shimano GRX 400 (160/160 mm) | Grade: 1.5
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano GRX 812 (1 x 11; 40, 11-42 t.) | Grade: 3.5
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Allround 40-622 (eff.: 38.5 mm) | Grade: 2.5
- Impellers: Shimano HB-M RS 470
- Impeller weights: 1797 / 2489 grams (front/rear)
Geometry of the gravel bike
- Seat/top/head tube: 475 / 545 / 150 millimetres
- Wheelbase/caster: 1010 / 65.2 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 586 / 370 millimetres / 1.584
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 644 / 536 millimetres / 1,201
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: top tyres, light, robust frameset, manoeuvrable on many terrains
- Minus: little comfort on the handlebars, Shimano parts mix, not very smooth running
