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Are you in the market for a bike that is versatile, durable and quite simply fun to ride? If the answer is yes then you definitely need a gravel bike. With tires equally as comfortable on the tarmac or the trail, as well as a more comfortable setup for long days in the saddle, you can’t go wrong with this type of bike.
For a budget of up to $2500, you will be able to get a good quality gravel bike, but the question is, what is the best gravel bike for under $2500? In this guide, I have picked out some of the best gravel bikes available on the market today. So if you want to find your perfect gravel bike, read on!
Best Gravel Bikes Under $2500 | ||
Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 700C  | Key Features:
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Vitus Substance VRS-2 Gravel Bike  | Key Features:
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Framed Basswood Carbon W/ Apex  | Key Features:
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Cinelli Zydeco Centaur Mechanical Gravel Bike  | Key Features:
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Orro Terra Gravel 7020-Hyd RR9 Gravel Bike  | Key Features:
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GT Grade Expert 700C  | Key Features:
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Marin Gestalt X11  | Key Features:
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Vaast A/1 700C Apex 1  | Key Features:
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Co-Op Cycles Adv 2.3  | Key Features:
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What to Expect from A Gravel Bike for Under $2500
When looking for a gravel bike, it’s important to consider what you’ll be using it for. If you’re just looking for something to cruise around on the weekends, a basic model will do. However, if you’re looking to take your bike racing, you’ll want to consider investing in a more expensive model with better features.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for a gravel bike is the frame material. Most bikes in this price range will have an aluminum frame, which is strong and lightweight. You may also find bikes with carbon forks, which can help absorb some of the shocks from rough terrain.
Another important feature to look for is hydraulic brakes. These brakes are much stronger than regular brakes and provide more stopping power, especially when riding in wet conditions.
Finally, make sure to check the gearing on the bike. More gears will give you a lot more flexibility as to where you ride, how fast you ride and how easy it is to climb hills. You should be looking for at least 11 gears in a gravel bike for under $2500.
What Are the Best Gravel Bikes for Under $2500?
Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 700c Bike
Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 700C | Key Features:
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For those in the market for a gravel bike that is light, strong and comfortable on all surfaces, the Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 might just be the perfect bike for you.
The Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 has an aluminum frame, which is designed to be strong, but not too heavy. The Salsa Waxwing carbon forks help reduce the bike’s weight without compromising on durability. The bike geometry is designed to be comfortable, whether you are taking a relaxed, long weekend ride or going out for a short speed ride.
The gears are built on a Shimano GRX drivetrain, offering 22 gears, which is the point most out of all the bikes on this list. The front crank is a Shimano GRX RX600, which comes with 46 and 30 teeth cogs. The Shimano HG700 11-speed cassette on the back ranges from 11 to 34 tooth cogs. The gear ratios on offer here are great for those who want to use their bike for multiple types of riding, from light mountain biking to longer bikepacking rides.
The brakes are Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes, which are designed to give consistent stopping power regardless of the riding conditions.
The wheels of the Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 are 700c and fitted with Teravail Washburn 700c x 38mm tires. This is a good size and width of tire for mixed-use, providing enough grip on looser surfaces without feeling sluggish on the smoother tarmac roads and pavement.
Why we love it:
This bike is great all-around, with the right balance of weight and durability, in addition to some excellent components.
Vitus Substance VRS-2 Gravel Bike
Vitus Substance VRS-2 Gravel Bike | Key Features:
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If you’re in the market for a bike gravel adventure bike that is stylish as well as comfortable on any terrain, the Vitus Substance VRS-2 is a good choice.
The frame of this bike is made from aluminum, which is both strong and light, meaning you get a reliable bike that won’t let you down. The forks are made from a durable carbon material, which is very light, but also very strong. This is similar to other bikes in this price range in terms of both quality and durability.
The Vitus Substance VRS-2 comes with a Shimano GRX 600 2 x 11-speed groupset, which means you get 22 gears, which is equal first for total gears on this list. The front crank is a Shimano GRX 600 FC-RX600, which has 46 teeth on the larger chainring and 30 teeth on the smaller chainring. The rear cassette is a Shimano HG700 11-speed 11-34T cassette. This combination is great for those who want a wide range of gears for whatever your gravel adventure throws at you.
This bike also comes with hydraulic brakes, which are Shimano GRX 400 hydraulic brakes. This is similar to the other top bikes in this list, providing superior stopping power whatever the conditions you are faced with.
The wheels are DT Swiss G 1800 Spline 700c wheels, which are very high quality. These are fitted with WTB Byway TCS Road Plus 700c x 40mm tires, designed to provide a smooth ride on the road as well as good grip on the gravel trails.
Why we love it:
The Vitus Substance VRS-2 is a great gravel bike for those who want to spend time both on and offroad on a comfortable, durable bike.
Framed Basswood Carbon W/ Apex
Framed Basswood Carbon W/ Apex | Key Features:
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If you want a superlight, full carbon gravel bike that is both fun and cool, the Framed Basswood Carbon W/Apex is a great choice.
The Framed Basswood Carbin W/Apex is a full carbon frame and fork gravel bike, which is rare in this price bracket (and the only one on this list). Being full carbon, you get a very lightweight, yet durable frame, which is great for those who want a bike that is easy to manoeuvre on the trails.
At this price point with a carbon frame, there is some compromise, which comes in the form of the number of gears. There are 11 gears with this bike, based on a 1 x 11 setup. The front crankset is a SRAM APEX X-SYNC 42 tooth chainring, with the rear cassette comprising of a SRAM PG-1130 11-42t set of chainrings. This gives a wide enough range of gears for 95% of gravel riding, but you might be left wanting in the other 5% of times for higher and/or lower gear ratios.
For brakes, the Framed Basswood Carbon comes with TRP Spyre mechanical disc brakes, which are not as reliable as hydraulic brakes but will still provide plenty of stopping power when needed.
The rims are Alex Rims Draw 2.1, which are fitted with Maxxis Rambler 700c x 40mm tires. This provides a good platform for riding on gravel roads, trails and on the tarmac.
Why we love it:
It is rare to find a carbon bike at this price point, but Framed has managed to do it without too much compromise on components. A great choice for those after a super light gravel bike.
Cinelli Zydeco Centaur Mechanical Gravel Bike
Cinelli Zydeco Centaur Mechanical Gravel Bike | Key Features:
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If you are in the market for a bike that is great for gravel grinding and will also turn heads, the Cinelli Zydeco Centaur Mechanical Gravel Bike will tick all the boxed.
The frame is made from aluminum alloy, which is lightweight and strong. It also comes with carbon forks, which are super light and durable, meaning overall you get a bike that doesn’t feel too heavy when riding on technical routes. The frame geometry, like all gravel bikes in this price range, is suited to longer periods in the saddle, meaning you won’t ache as much as you would if you have been riding a road bike.
The Campagnolo 2 x 11-speed groupset means you get 22 gears for your rides. On the front, you get an FSA Omega MX 34/50T chainset, which is paired with a Miche 11 speed 11/34T cassette on the rear. The range and ratio of gears on this bike are very similar to the other top bikes in this price range.
The Cinelli Zydeco Centaur comes with Tektro MD-C510 mechanical disc brakes. Whilst these will provide plenty of stopping power they are a step down from hydraulic brakes, which some bikes in this price range have.
For wheels, this bike comes with Miche Reflex DX rims, fitted with Impac CrossPac 700c x 38mm tires. These are great for all forms of riding you would expect to do on your gravel bike, being able to switch easily between road and trail.
Why we love it:
This bike is comfortable, packed with features and looks very cool. Definitely a boke to make your friends jealous.
Orro Terra Gravel 7020-Hyd RR9 Gravel Bike
Orro Terra Gravel 7020-Hyd RR9 Gravel Bike | Key Features:
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The Orro Terra Gravel 7020-Hyd RR9 Gravel Bike is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and stylish gravel bike.
The aluminum alloy frame is designed to be light and durable and is coupled with a set of superlight carbon forks. This makes the bike very light and much easier to manoeuvre when riding on trails. The geometry is similar to that of other gravel bikes, with a modern frame design making the bike very comfortable to ride, particularly for long periods in the saddle.
In terms of gear, this bike comes with 22 based around a Shimano 105 7000 2 x 11-speed groupset. The front crank is a Shimano 105 7000 50/34T chainring, with the rear cassette being a Shimano 105 7000 11-30T cassette. The gear ratios on offer with this bike are similar to others on the upper end of the list.
The Orro Terra Gravel 7020-Hyd RR9 comes with a set of Shimano 105 7000 hydraulic disc brakes, which provide superior stopping power compared to mechanical disc brakes, which some other bikes on the list are fitted with.
The Fulcrum R900 DB wheels come with Vittoria Zaffiro 700c x 32mm tires. These are narrower than others that you will find on this list, which means you may experience less grip on the trails. However, you will find that on the roads this is an advantage as there will be a reduction in the rolling resistance, meaning you can reach higher speeds with less effort than gravel bikes with wider tires.
Why we love it:
This is a high-quality bike with higher quality components. which would be a great choice if you aren’t concerned about going for the lightest bike possible.
GT Grade Expert 700C
GT Grade Expert 700C | Key Features:
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If you want a gravel bike from a name you know you can trust, the GT Grade Expert 700c would be a solid choice.
The GT Grade Expert features an aluminium alloy frame, which uses a unique Triple Triangle Design, which is designed to provide extra strength for riding over rough terrain. To help keep the weight of the bike down without compromising the strength of the bike, this bike comes with carbon forks, which are super light compared to aluminum forks.
The Shimano Tiagra GRX400 drivetrain provides 20 gears, based on a 2 x 10-speed set-up. The FSA Vero Pro 32/48T front crank is a similar size to other gravel bikes in this price range, as is the Shimano HG500 11-34T cassette. This is plenty of gears for riding on pretty much any terrain you could imagine.
The Shimano Tiagra hydraulic disc brakes will provide significant and consistent stopping power when you need it, whatever your ride throws at you.
The GT Grade Expert comes with WTB ST i23 TCS 2.0 TR Rims, which are fitted with WTB Riddler TCS Light 700c x 37mm tires. This is the perfect size for both on and off-road riding.
Why we love it:
GT is a big brand and this bike is not just a low-quality bike with a big name slapped on it. The specifications of this bike are very much a match for other gravel bikes for under $2500.
Marin Gestalt X11
Marin Gestalt X11 | Key Features:
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If you’re in the market for a bike that is built for adventure, the Marin Gestalt X11 is a great option.
This gravel adventure bike comes with an aluminum frame, which has been designed to the strong and durable. It also features full carbon forks, which are extra light and great for riding along rough gravel trails as well as on roads. The frame geometry is similar to other bikes on this list, designed to be comfortable when spending all day in the saddle.
One of the downsides of this bike is the number of gears. You only get 11 gears with this bike, which is fine for most riding conditions but is lacking compared to other gravel bikes in this price range. The Shimano GRX drivetrain comprises an FSA Gossamer Pro Megatooth 42T front crank, with the rear Shimano GRX cassette featuring an 11-42 tooth gear range. This is a wide-range cassette for the rear and largely makes up for the lower number of gears.
The Marin Gestalt X11 comes with Shimano GRX hydraulic brakes, which will provide plenty of stopping power when you need it, even in the worst conditions.
The Marin Aluminum Double Wall wheelset comes fitted with Schwalbe G-One Performance 700c x 40mm tires. This is a good size tire for riding on gravel roads and light trails.
Why we love it:
This bike is packed with high-quality components and is built for long gravel rides and adventures.
Vaast A/1 700C Apex 1
Vaast A/1 700C Apex 1 | Key Features:
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If you are in the market for a unique gravel bike, that is built for fun as well as adventure, then the Vaast A/1 700C Apex 1 would be a great choice.
The Apex 1 comes with a full set of carbon forks, which is similar to other bikes in this price range, however, what makes this bike unique is the frame material. The frame is made using a superlight AE81 SuperMag frame, which is a unique material used mainly for aerospace applications.
The Vaast A/1 Apex 1 comes with a SRAM Apex 11-speed drivetrain, which uses a Praxis Alba M30 42 tooth front crank and a SRAM 11-42T 11-speed cassette. This is fewer gears than some of the better bikes on this list but is still plenty of gears for most gravel adventure riding.
This bike is fitted with SRAM Apex 1 hydraulic disc brakes, which are designed to provide superior stopping power in all conditions.
The Vaast A/1 Apex 1 has WTB ST i23 TCS TR rims, which come fitted with WTB Riddler 700c x 37mm tires. These are perfect for those that want the flexibility to ride both on and offroad with ease.
Why we love it:
This bike is built from a unique, lightweight material and also comes fitted with high-quality components.
Co-Op Cycles Adv 2.3
Co-Op Cycles Adv 2.3 | Key Features:
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If you want a gravel bike that is built for speed across multiple terrains, the Co-Op Cycles Adv 2.3 might just be the gravel adventure bike that you need.
Like most gravel bikes for under $2500, the Co-Op Cycles adv 2.3 has an aluminum frame carbon fork combo, meaning you get the benefit of a strong aluminum frame and the lightweight of a carbon fork. This makes this bike perfect for soaking up the lumps and bumps of the trail without any worry of damage to the frame.
One limitation of this bike is the number of gears you get. Whilst it uses a top-quality Shimano GRX drivetrain, it only comes with 11 gears. The front crankset is a Shimano GRX 600 40 tooth chainring and the rear cassette is a Shimano SLX 11-42t set of cogs. Whilst you may be left wanting on particularly steep hills, the 11 gears should be enough for most forms of gravel riding, just make sure you avoid particularly steep offroad sections.
In terms of brakes, the Co-Op Cycles Adv 2.3 comes with a set of Shimano GRX 800 hydraulic brakes. These are high spec, high-performance brakes, so you shouldn’t struggle for stopping power when you need it.
The wheels are WTB ST i23 TCS rims, which are similar to other bikes in this list. These are fitted with WTB Nano TCS 700c x 40mm tires, which are a great size for switching between road, gravel and trail with relative ease.
Why we love it:
This bike is built for speed, with high-quality components to make sure you don’t have to worry about anything other than where to ride next!
What to Look for When Choosing a Gravel Bike
Wheel Size
When looking for a gravel bike, one of the decisions you will need to make is what wheel size to choose. While there are benefits and drawbacks to both 700c and 650b wheels, the size you choose will ultimately come down to personal preference.
700c wheels are the most common size for road bikes, so they offer a lot of versatility. They’re also slightly faster than 650b wheels, making them a good choice if you plan to do a lot of riding on pavement.
650b wheels have become popular in recent years thanks to their agility and ability to handle rough terrain. They’re also better at absorbing bumps, making them a good choice if you plan to do a lot of off-road riding.
Tire Width
When looking for a gravel bike, tire width is an important consideration. The wider the tires, the more stable and comfortable the bike will be on rough terrain. However, too wide of a tire can make steering more difficult. It’s important to find the right balance for your needs.
Tire width also affects how well the bike handles on paved roads. Whilst gravel bikes aren’t as fast as racing bikes, a narrower tire will provide more speed and agility. A wider tire will provide more stability and comfort, which is ideal for riding offroad and on loose gravel surfaces. Again, it’s important to find what works best for you.
Ultimately, choosing the right tire width comes down to personal preference and riding conditions. Be sure to test out several different options before making a final decision.
Frame Material
There are a few things to think about when choosing a gravel bike, but one of the most important is the frame material. Frames generally are made of aluminum, steel, or carbon fibre. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Steel
Steel frame bikes have been popular for many years and continue to be a top choice for riders.
On the plus side, steel is incredibly strong and can withstand a lot of punishment, making it ideal for off-road riding. It’s also very good at absorbing shocks, which can be beneficial when tackling bumpy terrain. Additionally, steel frames are often known for their comfort and can provide a more forgiving ride than other materials.
However, one downside of steel frames is that they tend to be heavier than those made from other materials such as aluminum or carbon fibre. This can be a bit of a drawback if you’re looking for a fast and agile bike that’s easy to carry around.
Aluminum
There are pros and cons to choosing an aluminum frame gravel bike.
Aluminum is a popular frame material because it’s strong and lightweight. It can also be formed into any shape, which makes it a good option for custom gravel bikes. However, aluminum frames can corrode over time if they’re not properly maintained.
Another consideration is the cost of an aluminum frame. They tend to be more expensive than steel frames. But, with proper care, an aluminum frame can last for many years making it a wise investment in the long run.
Carbon Fibre
There is no question that carbon fibre frames are popular among gravel cyclists. The material is light and stiff, which makes for a fast and efficient ride. However, there are also a few downsides to choosing a carbon frame gravel bike.
First, carbon fibre frames can be expensive. This is especially true if you are looking for a high-end frame with all the bells and whistles. Second, carbon fibre frames can be fragile. They are more prone to damage than aluminium or steel frames, so you need to be extra careful when riding on rough terrain.
Finally, there is the issue of sustainability. Carbon fibre production is not environmentally friendly, so some people worry about the impact it has on our planet. Ultimately, the pros and cons of choosing a carbon frame gravel bike come down to personal preference and priorities.
Frame Geometry
When looking for a gravel bike, the frame geometry is one of the most important factors to consider. Many people think that all gravel bikes are essentially the same, but this isn’t true. Each bike has its own unique set of geometries that can make or break your ride.
For example, if you’re looking for a bike that is stable and comfortable on long rides, you’ll want to look for one with a taller headtube and longer wheelbase. This will ensure that you’re in a more comfortable position when riding and that the bike is less likely to wobble or feel unstable on rough terrain.
Conversely, if you’re looking for a bike that is more agile and responsive, you’ll want to look for one with a shorter headtube and shorter wheelbase.
Frame Size
A frame that is too small or too large will make riding uncomfortable and may even be dangerous.
When choosing a frame size, it’s important to consider your height, inseam length, and riding style. If you’re not sure which size to choose, consult with a bike shop employee or cycling enthusiast.
A frame that’s too small will cause you to hunch over while riding, which can be uncomfortable and lead to fatigue. A frame that’s too large will make it difficult to control the bike and may cause you to lose your balance.
Price
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a gravel bike is the price. More expensive bikes often have better components and perform better on the road. If you’re just starting out in gravel cycling, it might be a good idea to purchase a less expensive bike and upgrade the components as your skills develop.
Weight
When you are looking for a gravel bike, the weight of the gravel bike is an important consideration. A heavier bike will be more difficult to carry up hills and will be slower on the descents. This can make a big difference in your performance on the gravel roads.
A lighter bike is also going to be more responsive and easier to handle. This can be important when you are riding on rough terrain or in tight corners. It is also going to be easier to keep up with other riders if your bike is lightweight.
The weight of the bike is not as important when you are riding on pavement, but it can make a big difference when you are riding on gravel roads. Make sure to consider the weight of the bike when making your purchase.
Brakes
When you are looking for a gravel bike, the type of brakes that it has is an important consideration. There are three main types of brakes: disc, cantilever, and V-brakes. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Disc brakes are the most popular type of brake for gravel bikes. They offer good stopping power, even in wet conditions. They are also less likely to cause wheel rub on rough terrain. However, they can be more expensive than other types of brakes and they require more maintenance.
Cantilever brakes are the traditional type of brake found on road bikes. They offer good stopping power and are easy to maintain. However, they can be less effective in wet conditions and can cause wheel rub on rough terrain.
V-brakes are the cheapest type of brake and they are easy to maintain.
Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Hydraulic disc brakes use fluid instead of cables to activate the brake pads on the rotor, providing more stopping power with less effort. The beauty of hydraulic disc brakes is that they are adjustable; you can customize the feel and power of your brakes by simply turning a knob. They also work well in all weather conditions and are less likely to fade than traditional rim brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes do have a few downsides, however. They can be more expensive than other types of brake systems and they require regular maintenance to keep them performing at their best.
Mechanical Disc Brakes
Mechanical disc brakes use cables to activate the brake pads on the rotor, providing more stopping power with less effort.
Mechanical disc brakes offer a few key benefits that hydraulic disc brakes don’t. They are easier to maintain and adjust, and they provide more stopping power than rim brakes. Additionally, discs perform better in wet weather than either type of rim brake.
Number of Gears
When choosing a gravel bike, the number of gears is important to consider.
A bike with more gears will allow for a smoother ride on varied terrain, while a bike with fewer gears may be better suited for racing. A bike with too many gears can be cumbersome and difficult to handle on rough terrain, while a bike with too few gears may not provide enough options when riding uphill or on windy days.
In general, it is best to choose a gravel bike that has the same number of gears as your road bike. This will give you the most versatility when riding on both paved and unpaved roads.
Summary
So there you go, if you are looking for a gravel bike that will perform well without breaking the bank, any of the nine bikes listed above will do the trick. For me, the Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 700c just pips the competition with its mix of quality components, lightweight and design.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!
Salsa Journeyer GRX 600 700C | Key Features:
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Andy is an avid cyclist who enjoys nothing more than a ride out in the hills. Competing in track, road, time trial and mountain bike events in the past, he prefers slower rides out with his family these days.
