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So, you wanna go off-road, huh? It sounds like fun! We spend a lot of money and time on our bikes, and for some, it is much more than a hobby or form of exercise. Biking makes our world go round. Going from road to off-road is a freedom that is very desirable. Riding on gravel is the hot topic of the day. Let’s take a closer look at the facts.
Can a road bike go on gravel? Road bikes are designed for paved roads. Taking a road bike on to gravel isn’t recommended, as it may damage the lightweight frame and thin-tired wheels. A hybrid bike is a wiser choice for going from road biking to off-roading.
A road bike is designed with a lightweight frame, sleek tires, brakes, and steering perfectly tailored to whizzing across paved roads. Hence, the term “road” bike. Here are the reasons to keep your road bike on the streets.
Why You Shouldn’t Take Your Road Bike on Gravel
Finding your passion in biking is a wonderful adventure, learn more about it so that your adventure can continue! And try not to wreck your beauty of a road bike along the way.
Can a road bike go on gravel? Sure, it’s possible. But is it a good idea? The answer would be no. A road bike is not necessarily the best bike for gravel. It could be dangerous, even for the most experienced rider.
Of course, there will be those that will argue this point. Believing that you can take your road bike wherever you want to be part of the freedom of the ride. But not only is it dangerous for you; your bike is in danger of getting damaged, as well.
There are actually bikes specially designed for gravel. Of course, there are; the world of biking and bicycle building has catered to every aspect of the terrain. Taking a road bike off-road could prove to be unsteady and an uncomfortable ride.
- Road bike tires are not meant for gravel. Due to their narrow smooth, tires that are made to coast over a smoothly-paved road, road bikes don’t do a great job on gravel. They are not designed to grip to bumpy, uneven surfaces.
- Road bike frames are crafted in a manner that makes them ultra-lightweight and sleek for riding at top speed. They’re a thrill to take through the paved parts of the world, but what about when you want to go riding off the path of least resistance? That’s where the gravel bike comes into play.
Off-Roading on a Bike That’s Made for It
If you’re a seasoned road bike rider but are not as familiar with riding in gravel or off the road there may be a lot that you will want to learn before you pull off the side of the street. Though the roads require a serious amount of knowledge and skill, it’s not all you need to know about biking.
The wild world of off-roading can be unpredictable and is therefore seen as a bit more dangerous. Do you enjoy danger? Well, buckle up it’s going to be a bumpy ride. Off-roading might not be as smooth, predictable and paved as what you are used to, but it is quite an adventure. One worth taking.
A great part of off-roading or gravel riding is the potential to see what others don’t, which gives it quite an allure to thrill-seeking riders. Go where the paved road won’t take you!
How Gravel Bikes Differ from Road Bikes
If you have the agility and endurance for riding through gravel and the like, it can be quite a rush and quite rewarding. Similar but at the same time so different from the road bike and to the mountain bike design, a gravel bike is a brilliant cross between the two.
- They typically have longer wheelbases than a road bike, making it more stable when going through unpredictable grounds.
- Gravel bikes are powerful enough to pull you through the toughest terrain, yet smooth enough to allow you to take it on the road, too, giving you the best of both worlds.
- They have suspension. This is what separates the gravel bikes from the road bikes when it comes to off-roading. Most road bikes won’t have suspension, or if they do, it most likely won’t be enough cushion for the bumpy ride you’ll get when going on your own trail vs the smooth street.
- Brakes making all the difference between a road bike and a gravel bike. Disk brakes are more powerful and versatile, perfect for the mix of terrain you will encounter on your new bike. Their power allows them to grip in any condition, giving you a sense of security.
- Tires on a gravel bike differ from those of a road bike in size and design, which gives them better grip and more capable of handling whatever the trail throws at you.
Can you Put Gravel Tires on a Road Bike?
Many riders wonder if they can’t necessarily take their road bike through gravel, could they possibly switch out their road tires for gravel tires? Simply putting different tires on your road bike probably will not be enough.
Both bike and tire are designed differently, which presents the issue of tires most likely being an ill-fitting size and design.
Furthermore, it’s not just the tires that present an issue when attempting to take your road bike off the road. It’s the entire design of it, really.
The handlebars and steering are a better fit for a smooth ride. And, the brakes? An off-roading bike will have a more powerful braking system, giving you grip on any ground.
The Ultimate Combo – The Hybrid Bike
What could possibly be better for a rider that’s looking to be more well-rounded in their skill and ability than a hybrid bike? They have taken the best parts of the road bike and off-road bikes, including gravel and mountain bikes to make one monster of a machine.
If you’re into that sort of thing.
Just as they have made a road/off-road hybrid, you can now create a hybrid ride. A whole new world opens up before you. A bit of road, then a bit of off the road, and back onto the street. Variety is the spice of life, my dear.
To figure out what type of hybrid bike is right for you, you have to consider where you plan to ride – and what type of rider you are.
Road Warrior
What’s your favorite part of riding? Is it the exercise? Or, the freedom you feel when you’re out there? Some do it for a change of scenery. While others go to the same gym every day and stare at the same wall while they’re working out.
Those who bike get to take in a different view every time they get on and push the pedals. It’s that constant change that keeps it interesting. And it keeps us coming back for more.
Training is a lifelong journey, one that takes dedication and understanding of what you’re up against. And what you can do to improve your game whether you’re training for life or training for a marathon.
Off-Roading
Where are you off to? The world is your oyster when you’ve got air in your lungs and in your feet on the pedals. Are you going for a local ride around the woods? Maybe you’re planning a trip up through the hills with a tent in your backpack?
Bring your friends. A partner on the trails makes the ride a lot more fun, especially if you can organize a ride that everyone will enjoy. Set up camp, build a fire and make a weekend of it. No more relying on campgrounds for your excursions.
As long as you’re not trespassing, you can make anywhere your own personal campground for the night. State parks are a good start. Public land is a great option for wide-open spaces.
Though everyone has their bike and gear, not everyone is on the same skill level as you, checking in with your group will keep you one step ahead of any issues that could arise in such an unpredictable adventure.
Once you’ve got the right bike for the terrain and great company for the ride, there’s nothing that can stop you from a great time ahead of you!
