DefinitionWhat exactly is this gravel? And who defines it?

TOUR

 · 10.09.2025

Definition: What exactly is this gravel? And who defines it?Photo: Felix Dellinger
Gravel biking on the Pico del Veleta in the Sierra Nevada, Spain
Gravel bikes combine road bikes and mountain bikes and are suitable for a variety of terrains such as gravel and forest paths. Whether leisurely or adventurous, they offer a solution for many riding styles. The decisive factor is the enjoyment of exercise and nature. But what exactly is gravel?

Some say: we don't need gravel bikes, they've all been done before. Bike companies are just reinventing what was already there, namely cross racers or mountain bikes. When asked by ChatGPT's artificial intelligence, it defines gravel as follows: "Gravel means 'gravel' in German - and in the cycling scene it stands for gravel bikes, i.e. bikes that are a mixture of road bikes and mountain bikes. They are made for tours on gravel paths, forest tracks, dirt tracks - in other words, wherever a road bike reaches its limits but an MTB would be too much."



Typical ChatGPT: Quite right so far, but not completely. Sure, some people gravel along wide dirt tracks and forest roads - but others love to take their gravel bikes into rougher terrain. Even single trails are an integral part of gravel tours for some. Others say: That's what mountain bikes are for.

Or passages where the bike has to be carried? Some people hate it, others love it because it gets you to the most remote places. Some are travelling at a leisurely pace, others crave the next best QOM or KOM.

We say: all of this is gravel. The important thing is to have a good time on the bike, enjoy nature and exercise. Type 2 fun - according to AI, these are activities where you sometimes have to push yourself - is also valid.

And what about bicycles? We are tolerant and accept all types of bicycles as sports and fun equipment - and commuting vehicles.

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