Its predecessor was already one of the raciest bikes on the market but Basso set out to address its only real downside – a lack of comfort – and they didn't disappoint. If speed is your No.1 concern then the Basso Palta II is where you want to set your sights. ![]() Wavering composure on really rough gravel One of the other great things about the Diverge stable is that there are so many to choose from, with 10 models in its line-up catering for almost any budget, starting with an aluminium frame around the £1,000 mark and even including flat-bar option.įind more with our comprehensive Specialized S-Works Diverge review. The tweaks in the geometry from the previous model of the diverge have given it a wonderful manoeuvrability and finesse, leading to confident, enjoyable handling – and as a result a high-speed, high-octane ride. While some might argue this feature takes away from its raciness, we'd suggest it is fundamental to what makes it one of the best gravel race bikes out there. ![]() The No.1 reason for this is its adjustable, hydraulically damped Future Shock 2.0 front suspension assembly, which is positioned above the head tube. But what really impressed us when we got hold of this mighty steed – and what gives it a point of difference to many of the other bikes in this guide – has to be the smoothness of the ride it provides. There are so many great things to say about the Specialized S-Works diverge, from its gorgeous metallic-copper finish to its flattering geometry and impeccable pedigree in annals of gravel history. There's the option for a 1x setup if you've decided you sit on that side of the fence in the great gravel bike debate and a fun, flickable nature to the Exploro's ride performance.įind out why we gave it five stars to rank it amongst the best gravel race bikes with our in-depth 3T Exploro review.ĭropper post is overkill and adds unnecessary weight And for those who aren't a fan of faffing about with wheel switches, we found that 3T's Hang Loose rear derailleur hanger really made this process easier. Slap on a pair of trainers – in this case 700c wheels with road tyres – and it's time to hit the tarmac pull on the hiking boots (650b with 2.1in rubber) and you're ready for the trails. 3T claims its Sqaero tubing shows aero savings at speeds as low as 20mph/32kph in testing and, in real life, we found it to result in a racey-yet-playful ride.īut don't get hung up on its aero tagline, this bike ticks so many boxes for us and will be the versatile friend many will be looking for in a gravel bike. The 3T Exploro thumbs its nose at the suggestion there are no aerodynamic advantages to be gained in gravel racing. We have also included a section at the end on how to choose the best gravel race bike for you. The groupsets they were fitted with along with wheelsets and other aspects of their finishing were all taken into account too. We, of course, looked at their speed as well responsiveness, handling, acceleration and control on flats, climbs and descents. We looked at how their specs stack up against the competition, how they deal with different surfaces from road to light gravel to more extreme off-road that starts to bleed into mountain-biking terrain. ![]() You may even still be a little confused about what a gravel bike actually is – and we've got you covered in that department too with this handy explainer as to what a gravel bike actually is.Īll the bikes in this guide have been extensively tested with a full review written about each one. ![]() If you aren't ready to spend big, the best budget gravel bikes might be worth checking out, or you may want an easier way to explore the countryside on the best electric gravel bikes. When you have decided on the best gravel race bike for you, it might be time to take a look at the best gravel bike pedals.
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