Gravel bike

What is a gravel bike

The English term "gravel" means gravel: it is a "do-it-all" bicycle, halfway between a road bike and a mountain bike, designed to tackle asphalt, unpaved roads, and gravel roads in the same ride. It is the ideal choice for bike touring and for those who want a single versatile bike for mixed terrains.

Gravel vs. Cyclocross: The Differences

Although both types share the same technical base, they have different purposes:

• Gravel: Designed for adventure and long-distance travel, with a frame equipped for panniers and bikepacking bags, and geometry optimized for comfort on long rides.
• Cyclocross: An competitive sport discipline, with a more aggressive position and race geometry, designed for mixed-terrain circuits (asphalt, dirt, mud, grass) typical of competitions. Generally, it is not designed for bikepacking.

Frame Materials: Aluminum, Carbon, Steel

• Aluminum: Excellent quality-to-price ratio, rigid and responsive frame. It is the most common choice on entry-level and mid-range gravel models.
• Carbon: The top choice in terms of weight and torsional stiffness, ideal for those seeking maximum performance over long distances or in races, at a higher cost.
• Steel: Absorbs vibrations better on uneven terrain, providing a smoother ride. Less common, but appreciated for durability and vintage style.

What to bring on a gravel ride

To tackle mixed routes autonomously, we recommend bike bags and rack racks for bikepacking, as well as a backpack for daily essentials. If you want to customize your setup, also check our selection of gravel and cyclocross frames.

Why buy your gravel bike from Cicli Mattio

• Specialists in bicycles since 1996, with direct experience in bike touring and competitive cyclocross.
• Pre-sales consultation on model, frame material, and setup, both online and in-store.
• Tracked shipping with major couriers (DHL, UPS, FedEx, GLS, BRT, Poste Italiane) and a 14-day working day return policy.
• Installment payment available via Findomestic.
• Physical store in Piasco (CN) and an in-house workshop for service, assembly, and maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a gravel bike and a cyclocross bike?

Gravel bikes are designed for travel and bike touring on mixed routes, with comfortable geometry and the option to mount bikepacking bags. Cyclocross bikes are a competitive sport discipline, with a more aggressive position and race geometry, designed for competitions on mixed-terrain circuits.

Aluminum or carbon: which is better for a gravel bike?

Aluminum offers a good quality-to-price ratio and is ideal for beginners. Carbon provides greater lightness and stiffness, making it the preferred choice for long distances or more performance-oriented use.

Are gravel bikes suitable for asphalt too?

Yes, they are designed specifically for mixed routes: they pedal well on both asphalt and unpaved roads or gravel, although for pure asphalt, a road bike remains more efficient.

How do I choose the right gravel bike size?

The size depends on your height and the specific geometry of the model. We recommend discussing this with our team, online or in-store, before purchasing.

Can I pay in installments?

Yes, via Findomestic Banca, subject to approval by the financial institution, directly at checkout on eligible products.