Gravel biking is suitable for a wide range of cyclists. It's ideal for those looking for the freedom and adventure of riding off the beaten track. Whether you are an experienced cyclist looking for new challenges or a beginner looking to explore the outdoors, gravel biking offers something for everyone. It is particularly appealing to commuters who need a robust bike for everyday use, as well as touring cyclists and bikepackers who want to tackle long distances and different types of terrain.

Gravel bikes are extremely versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces. These include gravel paths, forest tracks, dirt tracks and even tarmac roads. Uphill or downhill - it doesn't matter. This versatility makes gravel bikes ideal for exploring rural areas, national parks and remote landscapes. They are also perfect for urban environments where they can be used on cycle paths and less travelled roads.

There are many resources for finding suitable gravel routes. Websites such as Komoot and GravelDeluxe offer extensive collections of gravel tours that are categorised according to various criteria such as difficulty and landscape. Popular gravel regions in Germany, Austria, Italy and Switzerland offer spectacular routes through picturesque landscapes. These regions and many more are ideal for ambitious riders and leisure cyclists alike.

The right riding technique is crucial for a safe and enjoyable gravel experience. Here are some tips:

• Gravel tip 1: Tyre choice: Choose tyres with the right tread for the terrain. Semi-slick tyres are ideal for dry conditions, while chunky tyres are better suited to wet and muddy conditions.
• Gravel tip 2: Weight transfer: A relaxed and slightly upright riding position helps with weight transfer and makes manoeuvring easier.
• Gravel tip 3: Ride with foresight: Watch out for obstacles and look for places with the most grip. Ride over wet roots at right angles to avoid slipping.
• Gravel tip 4: Braking: Avoid hectic braking manoeuvres and try to develop a feeling for controlled drifting.
• Gravel tip 5: So that you can fully concentrate on your gravel tour, you should have a light, comfortable and snug bike backpack with you that you hardly feel while graveling. If you don't already have one, we recommend the new lightweight deuter Rogla - it feels like a second skin and keeps you hydrated during your gravel bike tour.

Although gravel bikes and cyclocross bikes look similar, there are some key differences:

• Frame geometry: Cyclocross bikes have an aggressive geometry that is optimised for fast manoeuvres and overcoming obstacles. Gravel bikes, on the other hand, are designed for comfort and stability, with a more relaxed riding position.
• Tyres: Cyclocross bikes use narrower tyres (usually 33c), while gravel bikes have wider tyres (up to 42c) for better grip and comfort.
• Brakes: Both types of bike use disc brakes, but gravel bikes often have more powerful brakes for longer tours and challenging terrain.

The tyre size for gravel bikes varies depending on the area of use. Typical sizes are 700c or 650b, with tyre widths between 38 mm and 42 mm. These wider tyres offer better grip and comfort on unpaved roads.

The drivetrain is also an important aspect. Gravel bikes are often equipped with groupsets that offer a wide gear range to cope with both steep climbs and fast descents. Popular groupsets for gravel bikes are Shimano GRX and SRAM Apex, which have been specially developed for off-road use.

Gravel biking is an exciting and versatile form of cycling that is suitable for a wide range of riders. With the right equipment and technique, you can enjoy the freedom and adventure that gravel biking offers. Whether you are looking for new challenges or simply want to explore nature, gravel biking offers you the perfect opportunity to do so.

Have fun gravel biking! 🚴‍♂️🚴‍♀️