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What is a race gravel bike?
Race gravel bikes differ from typical gravel bikes in that they are uncompromisingly sporty. They are made for bike races that are held on gravel tracks with gravel bikes. In contrast to the usually comfortable and upright riding position on most gravel bikes, on race gravel bikes you sit stretched out like on a competition racing bike. The equipment is also less focussed on suitability for touring and everyday use, but instead follows aerodynamic aspects: Integrated handlebar-stem units are often installed, and the handlebars are narrower than the relatively wide gravel bike handlebars. The bikes come with aerodynamic carbon rims and often low-profile, lightweight tyres that roll fast but offer little grip and are more prone to punctures.
What makes the frames of race gravel bikes special?
As already mentioned, the riding position differs significantly from the usual gravel bike, and there are also many other borrowings from competition road bikes. The frames are invariably made of carbon and are as light as possible, with less emphasis placed on robustness. In most cases, the tubes are also aerodynamically shaped. Additional fastening eyelets for luggage or storage compartments are rarely or never found on these bikes.
How is the driving behaviour?
The approaches here are very different. Some offer stoic straight-line stability, similar to typical gravel bikes, so that the bikes stay on track even at high speeds on rough surfaces. Others are a little more manoeuvrable and are geared more towards road racing bikes.
Which tyres are suitable for a race gravel bike?
Because aerodynamics, weight and rolling resistance are paramount, tyres wider than 42 millimetres are rarely used in gravel races. Bikes with space for mountain bike tyres are therefore rarely found in this segment, with 45 millimetres usually being the limit.
What do I need to bear in mind when translating?
The gear ratios on race gravel bikes are generally somewhat tighter than on typical gravel bikes and cover a higher speed level. The chainrings are slightly larger; if only one chainring is used, it usually has 42 to 44 teeth. When it comes to cassettes, a smaller version with a narrower gear range is usually chosen. The overall range remains wide and is generally also suitable for touring, although race gravel bikes usually have fewer small gears for steep climbs, but more reserves at high speeds.
What do race gravel bikes cost?
The bikes with competition-ready equipment are significantly more expensive than most gravel bikes for hobby riders. You will hardly find any offers for less than 5,000 euros, while high-end versions from well-known manufacturers can run into five figures.
What do race gravel bikes weigh?
With lighter frames, more expensive components and usually carbon rims, the bikes for gravel bikes are relatively light. The lightest models weigh around 7.5 kilograms, but it is hardly possible to go over 8.5 kilos.
What are typical representatives?
3T Exploro Racemax
Jens Klötzer
Editor
