Last Updated on February 11, 2024 by Vinson Lozano
Imagine gliding effortlessly through rugged terrain, soaking up the beauty of the great outdoors while feeling in complete control of your trusty steed; the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins as you conquer yet another untamed trail.
If this sounds like your idea of a perfect weekend, allow us to introduce you to your new best friend, the gravel bike with suspension! This remarkable feat of cycling innovation marries the versatility of a gravel bike with the added comfort, control, and confidence that suspension brings to the table, allowing you to triumph where ordinary bikes falter — all without sacrificing the joy of a fast and smooth ride.
In this blog post, we will delve deep into the world of gravel bikes with suspension, exploring their features, benefits, and just what makes them such game-changers on the wild, off-beaten path.
So, buckle up and let’s embark on an inspiring journey into the realm of the ultimate off-road cycling experience!
Gravel Bikes with Suspension
I have complied the ultimate gravel bikes with suspension for 2023. Prepare to experience the perfect blend of comfort, control, and performance on any terrain. This cutting-edge gravel bike is designed to conquer rough and unpaved roads with ease, while still maintaining exceptional efficiency on smoother surfaces.
Its advanced suspension technology absorbs bumps and vibrations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride, no matter the conditions. With a lightweight and durable frame, this bike offers the perfect balance of agility and stability, allowing you to confidently tackle any gravel adventure.
Equipped with top-of-the-line components and precise shifting, this gravel bike delivers optimal power transfer and responsiveness. Whether you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path routes, participating in gravel races, or simply seeking a versatile all-terrain companion, this is the bike that will exceed your expectations. Upgrade your gravel riding experience in 2023 with the best gravel bike with suspension.
Canyon Grizl Trail
Looking for a gravel bike that can handle any terrain with ease? Look no further than the Grizl CF SLX Trail. Designed for adventurous riders, this bike is built around the top-of-the-line 950g CF SLX frame, making it the fastest Grizl you’ve ever ridden. With its Shimano GRX components, you can expect exceptional performance and reliability.
Here are the specifications of the Grizl CF SLX Trail:
- Frame: 950g CF SLX frame
- Suspension: RockShox Rudy suspension fork with 30mm of travel
- Tyres: Tubeless ready 45mm Schwalbe tyres for a smooth ride on rocky terrain
- Wheels: DT Swiss G1800 Spline wheels for durability and grip
- Drivetrain: Shimano GRX or SRAM Force 1 40T
- Gears: Available in 12-speed configuration with SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS
- Trail-ready: Designed to handle rough gravel trails with confidence and ease
- Comfortable: Dedicated gravel suspension for alpine adventures or urban exploration
- Versatile: Can handle all types of terrain, from lumpy gravel to compact hard pack
- Price range – $2,999 – $4949
With its lightweight frame, top-notch components, and dedicated suspension, the Grizl CF SLX Trail is perfect for those seeking thrilling off-road adventures. Get ready to tackle any challenge and explore new horizons with this high-performance gravel bike.
Giant Revolt X Advanced Pro
Introducing the Giant Revolt X Advanced Pro, the ultimate gravel bike for adventure seekers. This high-performance bike is built to handle any terrain, providing a smooth and thrilling ride every time.
Specifications:
- Frame: Advanced-Grade Composite, 12x142mm thru-axle, disc, flip chip dropout
- Fork: RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR, 40mm, Charger Race Day damper 12x100mm thru-axle
- Handlebar: Giant Contact SL XR D-Fuse, 16-degree flare XS:44cm, S:44cm, M:46cm, M/L:46cm, L:48cm, XL:48cm
- Brakes: SRAM Rival eTap AXS hydraulic, SRAM PaceLine rotors [F]160mm, [R]160mm
- Brake Levers: SRAM Rival eTap AXS hydraulic
- Casette: SRAM XG-1275, 12-speed, 10×52
- Chain: SRAM GX Eagle
- Crankset: SRAM Rival D1 DUB, 40t XS:170mm, S:170mm, M:172.5mm, M/L:172.5mm, L:175mm, XL:175mm
- Rims: Giant CXR X1 Carbon Disc WheelSystem, [F] 25.8mm, [R] 25.8mm
- Hubs: [F] Giant CXR X alloy, CenterLock, 12mm thru-axle [R] Giant CXR X alloy, 60t ratchet driver, CenterLock, 12mm thru-axle
- Tires: Giant CrossCut Grip 1, 700x45c, tubeless
- Spokes: Sapim Laser
- Saddle: Giant Approach SL
- Available colors: Cordovan/Copper Coin
Features:
- Superior Steering Precision: The advanced frame design and rectangular-shaped down tube provide unparalleled lateral and torsional steering precision.
- Enhanced Stiffness: The oversized bottom bracket area and asymmetric chainstays deliver maximum stiffness on the driveside and stability on the non-driveside.
- D-Fuse Seatpost and Handlebar System: The integrated D-Fuse seatpost and handlebar absorb road shocks and vibrations for a comfortable riding experience.
- Adjustable Geometry: The eccentric two-position hardware in the rear wheel dropouts allows quick adjustments to the bike’s geometry and rear-wheel tire clearance.
- Oversized Fork Steerer Tube: Giant’s original oversized steerer tube enhances overall stiffness and control.
Pricing:
Please check with your local retailer for pricing details.
Experience the thrill of off-road adventures with the Giant Revolt X Advanced Pro gravel bike. Its cutting-edge features and top-quality components make it a true force to be reckoned with on any gravel trail. Don’t miss out on this incredible bike that will take your rides to the next level of excitement.
MCR 9 RDO Full Suspension Gravel Bike
Introducing the MCR 9 RDO Full Suspension Gravel Bike, a revolutionary addition to Niner’s lineup of high-performance bikes. Designed to conquer any terrain, from gravel roads to rugged trails, this bike offers an unparalleled riding experience.
Product Description:
- The MCR 9 RDO is a full suspension gravel bike that combines comfort and performance.
- It features Niner’s RDO carbon frame for optimal strength and lightweight construction.
- The mid-travel suspension provides a smooth and stable ride on all types of terrain.
- The superb balance and all-around performance make it ideal for traditional trail riding.
- A versatile bike that excels in both high-speed descents and challenging climbs.
Specifications:
- Frame Material: RDO Carbon
- Suspension Travel: Mid-travel
- Fork: Fox 32 SC Float AX Performance Elite EVOL FIT4, 40mm, 100X15m, 44m OFFSET
- Tire Size Compatibility: Up to 700c x 50mm or 650b x 2.1″
- Brake Compatibility: Disc brakes
- Drivetrain: Shimano GRX, SRAM Rival 1, or SRAM Force 1 options available
- Headset: Niner integrated SHIS
- Saddle: Niner custom with CRN-Ti rails, embossed Niner graphic
- Handlebar: Easton EA50 AX
- Seatpost: Niner RDO Carbon, 400mm
- Wheelset and hubs: Stans notubes grail CB7, NEO ULTIMATE HUB
- Tires: Schwalbe G-One Allround EVO Super Terrain, TLE, ADDIX Speedgrip, 700 X 38
Variants and Pricing:
- MCR 9 RDO SRAM FORCE 1 XPLR AXS Build – $8,349
- MCR 9 RDO SHIMANO GRX 800 2X Build – $7,999
- MCR 9 RDO SHIMANO GRX 800 1X Build – $7,649
- MCR 9 RDO SRAM RIVAL 1 XPLR AXS Build – $6,649
- MCR 9 RDO SRAM RIVAL 1 Build – $5,699
- MCR 9 RDO SRAM APEX 1 Build – $5,149
Experience the unbeatable combination of comfort, performance, and versatility with the MCR 9 RDO Full Suspension Gravel Bike.
RockShox pioneering gravel suspension for Grizl bikes
Rockox, an industry pioneer in suspension development, has introduced their groundbreaking Rudy front suspension system, specifically designed for gravel bikes. The Canyon Grizl bike series is among the first to adopt this revolutionary innovation, providing riders with enhanced control, comfort, and performance on diverse terrain.
The Rudy suspension for Grizl bikes offers 30 mm of travel in a lightweight chassis. This level of suspension is the perfect balance to efficiently absorb high-frequency hits that cause fatigue over long rides. In addition, the Rudy suspension preserves Grizl’s standard 50 mm tire clearance, ensuring compatibility with various tire options.
RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR Race Day Suspension Fork
Furthermore, RockShox has incorporated their Charger Race Day damper and a responsive Solo Air spring into Rudy. This combination provides exceptional traction, allowing the front tire to remain grounded even on rough surfaces and loose corners. As a result, riders can have a greater sense of control over their bike in unpredictable conditions.
Canyon Grizl bikes that feature Rudy suspension also benefit from SRAM’s one-by gearing options for off-road riding. This system minimizes complexity, improves chain security, and reduces weight, making it ideal for gravel exploration. The new XPLR 10-44T cassette and matching derailleur is a core component, offering light gearing for steep climbs and tight jumps for fast road cruising. This groundbreaking kit is complemented by SRAM’s logical wireless AXS shifting system.
In summary, the partnership of RockShox and Canyon is transforming the gravel biking scene with the innovative Rudy front suspension system on the Grizl bike series. The combination of unparalleled suspension technology, advanced gearing options, and lightweight design has provided riders with improved control, comfort, and enjoyment while traversing unpredictable gravel paths.
Rudy front suspension offers 30mm of travel for Grizl bikes
Gravel biking enthusiasts have a new reason to rejoice, as RockShox, the pioneer in suspension development, brings its expertise to the world of gravel biking. Their latest innovation, Rudy, offers 30mm of front suspension travel designed specifically for gravel bikes, and it is set to revolutionize the Grizl biking experience.
For those who are unfamiliar with Grizl bikes, they are a popular choice for adventure-seekers who enjoy exploring off-road paths and conquering rough terrain. Thanks to the Rudy front suspension, Grizl riders can now enjoy a smoother and more comfortable ride, as the 30mm of travel effectively absorbs high-frequency hits that accumulate during long rides on bumpy surfaces.
Not only does the suspension system provide more comfort, but it also ensures better control and stability, especially when navigating loose corners or rocky paths. The Rudy front suspension features a gravel-tuned RockShox Charger Race Day damper, combined with a highly responsive Solo Air spring. This combination guarantees that the front tire remains gripped to the ground, giving riders the ultimate control needed for an exhilarating ride.
Another major advantage of the Rudy front suspension is its compatibility with a wide range of tire sizes. Grizl bikes with the front suspension can safely accommodate tires with up to 50mm width, providing a wealth of options for those wishing to experiment with different tire profiles.
In summary, the introduction of the Rudy front suspension system for Grizl bikes is truly a game-changer, as it adds an extra layer of comfort and control to an off-road ride. Designed to perfectly complement the rugged nature of Grizl bikes, this innovative suspension technology is sure to open the doors to new possibilities in the world of gravel biking. So gear up and get ready to embark on your next riding adventure with the enhanced Grizl experience, powered by Rudy.
XPLR Collection revolutionizing gravel with new one-by gearing options
The XPLR Collection is revolutionizing the gravel bike scene with its innovative one-by gearing options, providing riders with a seamless off-road experience. This groundbreaking collection, a collaboration between SRAM, RockShox, and Zipp, offers a range of products tailored to the unique needs of gravel enthusiasts.
One of the key innovations that the XPLR Collection brings to the table is the new one-by gearing options, specifically designed for off-road riding. With less complexity, more chain security, and reduced weight, these gearing options have advanced the gravel game like never before. The core of this system is the new 10-44T cassette and matching derailleur, which perfectly complements a gravel rider’s needs with light gearing for steep climbs and tight jumps for fast road cruising.
In addition to the progressive gearing options, the XPLR Collection also features a gravel-tuned RockShox charger race day damper and highly responsive Solo Air spring, which work together to provide top-notch control and comfort on rough terrain. The new Rudy XPLR fork and Reverb AXS XPLR dropper post are purpose-built for gravel cycling, adding to the collection’s comprehensive suite of drop bar components.
Zipp’s 101 XPLR wheelset, designed explicitly for gravel riders, is another noteworthy addition to the XPLR Collection. This wheelset offers enhanced control and durability over rough terrain while ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride quality that reduces rider fatigue.
In summary, the XPLR Collection has completely transformed the gravel biking experience with its advanced one-by gearing options, suspension technology, and purpose-built components. Gravel enthusiasts can now enjoy increased comfort, control, and capability when tackling off-road adventures, all thanks to the innovations presented by this remarkable collaboration between SRAM, RockShox, and Zipp. The future of gravel riding has never looked brighter.
Is Gravel bike suspension necessary or just a costly gimmick?
The debate on whether gravel bike suspension is necessary or merely an expensive fad has been ongoing among cycling enthusiasts. While some see it as a vital innovation for enhancing rider comfort and control, others argue that it is an unnecessary expense that adds complexity and maintenance concerns. Ultimately, the requirement for a suspension system on a gravel bike is subjective, depending on individual preferences, riding style, and terrain.
Gravel bike suspension is primarily used for two reasons: either to provide additional capability on more technical trails or to reduce high-frequency vibrations, improving overall comfort and minimizing fatigue during extended rides. Suspension systems can improve traction and bike control on rough surfaces, allowing a smoother and more stable ride. Additionally, reduced vibrations and jolts can lead to increased rider comfort and help maintain forward momentum on rough terrain.
FOX 32 AX Performance Series Suspension Fork
On the other hand, some riders argue that adding suspension can compromise pedaling efficiency on smoother surfaces due to slight bobbing. Moreover, suspension components may require more maintenance than rigid setups, potentially increasing long-term costs and time investments.
Conversely, other riders argue that various alternatives can provide a similar level of comfort without investing in expensive suspension systems. For instance, wider tires or lower tire pressures can offer better traction and shock absorption without additional hardware.
In summary, the decision to utilize suspension on a gravel bike boils down to one’s individual preferences and riding conditions. Some riders may find the added comfort, stability, and improved traction worth the investment, while others may prefer a simpler setup with alternative ways of achieving a comfortable ride. Factual data and personal preferences will ultimately lead to the right choice for each individual rider.
Suspension options available for gravel bikes
Gravel bike suspension has emerged as a game-changer for many off-road cyclists, providing improved comfort and capability on rough terrain. To cater to the growing demand for suspension in the gravel market, several options have been developed to enhance ride quality for various preferences and riding styles. Here are eight popular suspension options available for gravel bikes today:
1. Integrated Frame Suspension: Some gravel bikes, like the Trek Domane SLR, feature innovative decoupler systems that allow the frame to absorb more vibration and provide smoother rides on rough terrain.
2. Short-Travel Forks: Renowned mountain bike suspension manufacturers, such as Fox and RockShox, have launched gravel-specific forks with 30-60mm of travel. These forks add additional shock absorption and control on technical trails.
3. Bouncy Stems: Brands like Cirrus Cycles and Redshift Sports offer suspension stems designed to add vertical compliance, reduce road chatter and vibrations, and provide additional comfort on gravel surfaces.
4. Squishy Seatposts: Suspension seatposts, like the Cane Creek Thudbuster or the PNW Components Coast, isolate the rider from vibrations and bumps, enabling long rides with less fatigue.
5. Headset Springs: The Specialized Future Shock system and BMC URS provide integrated headset suspension, comprising a spring mechanism within the head tube that allows the stem and handlebars to move independently, improving rider comfort on rough terrain.
6. Tyre Pressure and Volume: Running wider tyres at lower pressures can help absorb impacts and vibrations, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride without the need for complex and expensive suspension systems.
7. Tyre Inserts: CushCore and other similar inserts enable riders to run lower pressures without risking rim damage or pinch flats, enhancing comfort and traction on gravel surfaces.
8. Aftermarket Forks: The Fox 32 Taper-Cast Gravel and other such aftermarket gravel forks allow riders to retrofit their current gravel bikes with suspension, provided the bike frame is compatible.
In conclusion, the range of suspension options available for gravel bikes caters to an extensive array of rider preferences and requirements. These options significantly enhance comfort, control, and capability on rough terrain, making it easier than ever for cyclists to explore further and push their boundaries on gravel adventures. Choosing the right suspension setup based on individual needs can lead to a more enjoyable and safer gravel riding experience.
