We love writing these guides for you and sometimes we are compensated when you use one of our links to buy a product. This doesn’t impact the final price you pay. If you want to learn more about how this works, please see our Affiliate Disclosure page.
Gravel bikes are a great way to get out and explore the outdoors. Heading off down the trails, and riding on roads and uphills are great ways to keep healthy. When choosing a bike, weight can play an important factor in the enjoyment of your ride, with a heavier bike slowing you down and making your ride more challenging than a lighter bike. So, how much do gravel bikes weigh? Are they heavier than road bikes? Are they lighter than mountain bikes? Keep reading to find out.
For those in a hurry…
Gravel bikes are only a little heavier than road bikes, but they are much lighter than mountain bikes. With the lightest gravel bikes weighing around 15 pounds, there are some very light options on the market, with some of the heavier gravel bikes weighing around 29 pounds.
Want to learn more? Then read on.
How Much Do Gravel Bikes Weigh?
When most people think of a gravel bike, they might imagine something like a beefed-up road bike that can handle a bit of off-road riding. But what many people don’t know is that gravel bikes can come in all shapes and sizes, with some weighing in at just 15 pounds.
Gravel bikes are often designed with disc brakes, wide tyres, and frame geometry that can accommodate a range of different riding styles and surfaces. This makes them ideal for everything from weekend rides on your local trail system to multi-day adventures on rugged backcountry roads.
While the weight of your average gravel bike will vary depending on the model and components you choose, it’s generally going to be heavier than a traditional road bike. But that extra weight comes with added stability and versatility, making it well worth the trade-off for many riders.
How Heavy Is a Steel Gravel Bike?
A steel gravel bike will generally weigh somewhere between 22 pounds and 28.5 pounds.
A steel gravel bike is heavier than a traditional road bike but still lighter than a mountain bike. These bikes are designed for riding on unpaved surfaces and typically have wider tires and lower gearing than a traditional road bike.
While they are not as fast as road bikes, they are more versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, such as commuting, touring, or even racing.
How Heavy Is an Aluminum Gravel Bike?
Most aluminum gravel bikes weigh around 20-25 pounds. This makes them a little heavier than traditional road bikes, but still relatively light compared to other types of bicycles. When you consider the added benefits of a gravel bike, such as increased comfort and versatility, the extra weight is well worth it.
How Heavy Is a Carbon Gravel Bike?
A well-built carbon gravel bike can weigh anywhere from 15 to 24 pounds, which is significantly lighter than a traditional touring or cyclocross bike.
This makes it easier to carry upstairs or lift onto a car rack. But the weight savings comes at a price; carbon bikes are typically more expensive than their aluminum counterparts.
Are Gravel Bikes Heavy?
The modern gravel bike is designed to be ridden on a variety of surfaces, from pavement to dirt roads and trails. Many people are curious if gravel bikes are heavy due to their capabilities on unpaved surfaces.
Gravel bikes actually weigh about the same as traditional road bikes. While they may have wider tires and more forgiving geometry, they don’t weigh much more than a traditional road bike. This makes them perfect for anyone looking for an all-around bike that can handle a variety of terrain.
Why Are Gravel Bikes Heavier than Road Bikes?
Gravel bikes are typically heavier than road bikes. This is because they are designed to be more durable and able to handle a wider variety of terrain. The frame and components of a gravel bike are typically made from stronger materials, which can add weight.
Additionally, many gravel bikes feature wider tires and rims, which also contribute to the overall weight of the bike. While a gravel bike may be heavier than a road bike, it offers greater versatility and can be used for a wider range of activities.
How Can I Make My Gravel Bike Lighter?
There are a few things you can do to make your gravel bike lighter. One is to upgrade to a carbon frame. This will reduce the weight of your bike by several pounds.
Another option is to switch to lighter components, such as carbon fibre wheels and cranksets.
You can also reduce the weight of your bike by removing unnecessary accessories, such as fenders and racks.
Finally, you can experiment with different tire pressures to find the best balance between weight and traction.
Summary
So there you go, gravel bikes weigh around 20 to 25 pounds, give or take a pound or two. This makes them heavier than traditional road bikes, but they still offer a great riding experience. If you’re looking for a bike that can handle a variety of terrain, a gravel bike is a great option.
Related Post: Best Gravel Bikes for Under $2500
