That might just be true for the Marin Gestalt 1, which gives incredible value through its versatility. Hydraulic brakes are superior for two reasons. Perhaps, it is the manufacturer’s strategy to produce cheap gravel bikes. Trek and Cannondale for example, have internal cable routing on their entry-level gravel bikes. You can either go for something that has a slicker profile if you are simply going to have it on paved roads. The steel frame has been getting a lot of odd looks because it is known for being heavy. An easy bike to ride, the RX2 is perfect for beginners and seasoned veterans alike. This makes it easier to reach the top of an uphill terrain without exerting too much work on your legs. The drivetrain is another important consideration whenever you are going to look for gravel bikes. Bikes such as the Trek Checkpoint ALR 3 are fitted with tubeless-ready rims. And for those adventure enthusiasts and commuters, there’s also plenty of mounts for racks. This comes with a hand-built 4130 Chromoly steel frame that allows users to withstand tough terrains. Be sure to compare at least four bikes before you make up your mind. As with some of the other gravel bikes here it comes with thru axles and flat mount brakes. Think of it as a hybrid between road bikes and mountain bikes. These options will help you make a good decision whether you are leaning towards a gravel bike that looks more like a mountain bike or you want something that looks more like a road bike. Most gravel bikes frames are made out of aluminum, steel, and other materials to ensure a strong base for resisting rust or wearing out. You need to be at least 5’10” to enjoy this bike. The frame features rack mounts not just in the usual places but on the fork and top tube as well, offering plenty of places for bags, water bottles, racks, and fender mounts. The Populo Quest Gravel Bike is designed with daily commute considerations. Comfort is another important factor that should be discussed with the Tommaso Siena ShimanoTourney Gravel Adventure Bike. This bike comes with a compact aluminum frame making it lighter than your average steel gravel bike. The Populo Quest 16-Speed Gravel Bike fits the description of a budget gravel bike. On the other hand, you also have versions that look more like mountain bikes. The 10 Best Gravel Bikes Under $1500. Plus, it gives you a broad range of gears to choose from. If you will read the bike reviews online, many would even call it as the best adventure bicycle for first-time buyers. To simplify the process, here are a few simple steps that can help you. Another often overlooked part of any bike is the handlebar. Some don’t even have a fork. Altogether, this makes for an excellent starter bike for any cyclist’s first foray into the world of gravel. On the other hand, you want something around 80-100mm range if you are going to stick to something that looks more like a mountain bike. Giant, for example, offer hydraulic brakes with their Giant Revolt 2. The GT Grade Expert features an 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset, a level of typically unheard of at this price point. Users noted that it is not as durable as they expected it to be. This, of course, means that hydraulic brakes are more expensive. And, of course, 2x drivetrains are generally cheaper, helping bike manufacturers to keep the overall price down. The first on our list of best gravel bikes is the popular Royce Union Gravel Bike. What to Expect in A Gravel Bike Under $1,500. On the global scene, biking is not only popular but according to estimates, the number of bicycles in the world exceeds two billion. Built with an aluminum alloy frame, this road bike makes sure you are getting better durability and lifelong usage benefits. This bike has wide tires, which are fast and strong enough to give you the fastest performance. The frame is also compact allowing you to have a more upright posture. And lastly, you have the Avid BB5 disc brakes that give you the necessary stopping power regardless if you are dealing with wet or dry surfaces. But unlike most of the gravel bikes, it has a flat handlebar making it difficult to maneuver muddy terrains. The $1400 model is built from Cr-Mo steel and is designed for the more bikepacking end of gravel riding. You can select from small, medium, large, and extra-large catering to users from 5’4” to 6’4”. Though it can make the bike cheaper, it can also make the bike lighter and more aerodynamic. Most entry-level gravel bikes will feature 700c wheels with tires ranging from 32c to 37c. Like many of its gravel bike peers, the Cannondale Topstone is ready for adventure. Allen bolts dot the entire frame, providing plenty of mounting points for bikepacking, racks, and an extra bottle cage. It comes with a 650b x 60mm or 700c x 42 cm tire clearance which means you can get exactly the size you need. Tommaso Illimitate Tiagra: 27.5" Mechanical Disc: Check Price: 3. Now, let’s take a closer look at all the specs that can affect your buying decision. Not to mention the 700x40c tires provide maximum grip on the road. TheGeekyCyclist.com is participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Then perhaps, you are on the roadie spectrum. Carbon is known as the best material when it comes to any bike. CylanceProCycling participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. View at Amazon. The best gravel bikes are the ones you desperately want to lay your hands on. Let’s not forget that it has the ability to conquer different terrains. Couple that with a bottom bracket that’s so low the chainstay needs to curve downward to meet it, and you’ve got a ride that’s both compliant and stable. At the bottom of the page are two bikes that cost a little over a grand but are ones that are also well worth a look. It also has a handlebar that allows you and maneuver the bike on difficult roads. A lot of people buy gravel bikes to have a bike that they can use regardless of the terrain. The Raleigh Bikes Willard 2 Gravel Adventure Bike is a favorite by many outdoor bike enthusiasts. The German word gestalt is the idea that an object is greater than the sum of its individual parts. The Salsa Journeyman 1 is a great entry-level bike for a day on gravel trails or a weekend bike-packing trip. It comes with a 4130 double butted Cro-Mo steel frame that can tolerate both rough and smooth rides. Total weight for bikes in the $1,500 range will be somewhere between 10 and 12 kg. Narrower tires are lighter weight and offer better roll. This retro-looking bike is as fun to ride as it is to look at! 27 great gravel bikes that you can buy right now. Before picking gravel bikes under 1500 dollars, you want to check the material. GT also finds ways to outfit its bikes with quality components at a budget price, and that’s the case here. Because of this, it isn’t surprising why it is considered by many as one of the best gravel bikes for the money. Does it require some maintenance? The terrain assess where you are going to take on more than just gravel trails or a weekend trip... To conquer different terrains process is a Favorite by many experienced bikers because of its individual parts points. 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