What Are the Best Gravel Bikes Under $1000 in 2024?
Gravel bikes have surged in popularity as versatile, do-it-all machines capable of handling a variety of terrains, from smooth pavement to rugged off-road trails. For those looking for an affordable yet high-performance gravel bike, 2024 offers several fantastic options under $1000. In this article, I will review some of the top gravel bikes in this price range, including frames from well-known brands as well as the Tideacebike GV201, a standout model from a professional carbon fiber bicycle frame manufacturer. We'll explore each bike’s strengths and weaknesses to help you find the best option for your riding needs.
1. Tideacebike GV201 – Carbon Frame Excellence at an Affordable Price
Overview
The Tideacebike GV201 is one of the most talked-about gravel bikes in 2024, particularly because it offers a carbon fiber frame for under $1000, something that's rare in this price category. Carbon fiber frames are usually found in higher-end models, known for their lightweight, stiffness, and ability to absorb vibrations from rough terrain. The GV201 combines these premium features with a competitive price, making it a leading choice for budget-conscious riders.
Key Features:
- Frame Material: T1000 Carbon Fiber
- Tire Clearance: 700x50C
- Fork: Carbon
- Groupset Compatibility: 1x and 2x setups
- Unique Features: UDH rear hanger, patented storage box for tools
- Weight: Approximately 8.5 kg (frame)
- Price: Around $900
Pros:
- High-Quality Carbon Frame: The T1000 carbon fiber frame is lightweight and highly durable, making it a premium choice for riders who want a fast, responsive bike for long-distance rides or races.
- Vibration Damping: The carbon frame effectively absorbs shocks from rough terrain, offering a smooth ride even on gravel and dirt roads.
- Customizable Paint and Finish: Tideacebike offers customized color options, allowing riders to personalize their bike's aesthetics.
- Ample Tire Clearance: With space for 700x50C tires, the GV201 can handle a variety of terrains, from loose gravel to smoother paths.
- Patented Storage Box: The integrated storage box is a thoughtful addition for riders who need to carry tools, tubes, or other essentials without the need for bulky bags.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: As a specialized frame, it may not be as readily available as mass-produced brands in local bike shops, requiring online orders and potentially longer shipping times.
- No Groupset Included: The frame is sold separately, meaning riders will need to invest in a groupset, which could push the total cost above $1000.
- Not for Aggressive Off-Roading: While the GV201 can handle most gravel paths, its lightweight nature might not be ideal for extreme off-road trails with steep descents and rough technical sections.
2. State Bicycle Co. 4130 All-Road
Overview
The State Bicycle Co. 4130 All-Road is a solid choice for riders who are new to gravel biking but want an affordable, capable bike. It features a chromoly steel frame, which offers durability and comfort. The 4130 All-Road is versatile, allowing for both gravel and road riding, and comes equipped with wide tire clearance for more challenging terrains.
Key Features:
- Frame Material: Chromoly steel
- Tire Clearance: 650b or 700c options
- Fork: Chromoly
- Groupset: 1x11 MicroSHIFT
- Weight: Approximately 12 kg
- Price: Around $799
Pros:
- Durable Steel Frame: The chromoly steel frame is known for its strength and resilience, which makes it an excellent choice for gravel adventures and bikepacking.
- Wide Tire Options: The ability to switch between 700c and 650b wheels allows riders to adapt the bike to different riding conditions, providing more versatility.
- Affordable Price: At just under $800, this bike offers excellent value for money with reliable components and strong frame construction.
- Ready for Bikepacking: It comes with numerous mounting points for racks and accessories, making it suitable for long-haul adventures.
Cons:
- Heavier Than Carbon Options: At approximately 12 kg, the steel frame is noticeably heavier than carbon alternatives, which could affect speed and acceleration on long climbs.
- Basic Groupset: While functional, the MicroSHIFT 1x11 groupset may not offer the same precision and smoothness as higher-end options from Shimano or SRAM.
3. Marin Nicasio Plus
Overview
The Marin Nicasio Plus is a well-regarded entry-level gravel bike with an affordable price tag. With its sturdy steel frame and wide 650b wheels, this bike is designed for comfort on mixed surfaces, making it ideal for both commuting and gravel adventures.
Key Features:
- Frame Material: Double-butted chromoly steel
- Tire Clearance: 650b x 47mm
- Fork: Steel
- Groupset: Shimano Claris 2x8
- Weight: Approximately 11.5 kg
- Price: Around $899
Pros:
- Comfortable Ride: The combination of a steel frame and wide tires makes for a very comfortable ride on rough terrain, absorbing shocks and vibrations effectively.
- Versatile: The Nicasio Plus can handle everything from gravel trails to city streets, making it a great all-rounder.
- Gravel-Specific Geometry: The frame geometry is optimized for gravel riding, offering a stable and confident feel on loose surfaces.
- Budget-Friendly: It’s one of the more affordable options in this list without compromising on quality.
Cons:
- Limited Gear Range: The 2x8 Shimano Claris groupset offers fewer gears than some more advanced options, which might feel limiting on steep climbs.
- Heavier Than Competitors: Steel frames are durable but can be significantly heavier than their carbon or aluminum counterparts, which might affect performance over long distances.
4. Giant Revolt 2
Overview
The Giant Revolt 2 is a well-balanced gravel bike that offers a combination of performance and affordability. It features an aluminum frame, carbon fork, and Shimano Sora groupset, making it a highly competitive choice for those seeking a reliable gravel bike for under $1000.
Key Features:
- Frame Material: ALUXX aluminum
- Tire Clearance: 700x45C
- Fork: Composite (carbon)
- Groupset: Shimano Sora 2x9
- Weight: Approximately 10.5 kg
- Price: Around $999
Pros:
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame: The ALUXX-grade aluminum frame offers a balance between weight and durability, making the Revolt 2 a fast and efficient bike for both gravel and road use.
- Carbon Fork: The carbon fork helps absorb vibrations from rough terrain, offering a smoother ride than a full aluminum or steel frame.
- Reliable Components: The Shimano Sora groupset, though entry-level, is known for its reliability and smooth shifting.
- Gravel-Optimized Geometry: Giant has optimized the geometry of the Revolt series for gravel riding, offering stability and comfort on long-distance rides.
Cons:
- Limited Tire Clearance: While it accommodates up to 700x45C tires, it may not be as versatile in terms of wheel and tire choices compared to bikes with wider clearances.
- Close to $1000: At $999, it just barely makes it into the "under $1000" category, and depending on sales taxes or additional purchases, the total cost might exceed the budget for some riders.
5. Salsa Journeyman Claris 700c
Overview
The Salsa Journeyman Claris 700c is a popular choice among budget gravel bikes, offering a capable aluminum frame and reliable components for a reasonable price. It is designed with versatility in mind, making it suitable for gravel rides, commuting, and light touring.
Key Features:
- Frame Material: 6061 aluminum
- Tire Clearance: 700x50C
- Fork: Aluminum
- Groupset: Shimano Claris 2x8
- Weight: Approximately 11.8 kg
- Price: Around $949
Pros:
- Strong Aluminum Frame: The 6061 aluminum frame is durable and lightweight, providing a responsive feel on a variety of terrains.
- Wide Tire Clearance: With space for 700x50C tires, the Journeyman offers a smooth ride on rough trails and unpaved roads.
- Versatile Design: This bike is designed for gravel riding but can easily double as a commuter or touring bike thanks to its numerous rack and accessory mounts.
- Trusted Brand: Salsa is well-known for its high-quality gravel and adventure bikes, and the Journeyman is no exception.
Cons:
- Basic Components: Like many other budget-friendly options, the Shimano Claris groupset may feel limiting in terms of gear range and precision.
- Heavier Frame: Though the aluminum frame is lighter than steel, the overall build of the bike is still on the heavier side, especially compared to carbon options.
