I am looking to buy my first gravel bike. I currently have road bike and used to have a hybrid bike to take my kid around town or pick him up from daycare. I decided to sell my hybrid and get a gravel bike that would serve dual purpose: 1) same as hybrid bike (be able to ride with my boy) 2) be able to take occasional gravel trails in Seattle area. I’ve been searching recently and there are lots of great trails which I would like to explore. I don’t see myself going too off-road and stick to gravel trails only. Since I am looking to ride around town as well (on paved roads) I definitely want a gravel bike that is very decent on paved road as well, so no day tires or suspension needed (I think) My budget is not to exceed $1500.. So far some of top choices based on my own research are: Cannondale Topstone Specialized E5 Elite Giant Revolt 2 Others lower on list Kona Rove Marin Lombardo Marin Nicasio plus or 2 Marin Geshalt Any recommendations/feedback on what’s worth to get and what’s not really needed (GRX groupset?, hydraulic brakes vs mechanical?, tire recommendations?)
I’m nota gravel rider but I’m fairly certain we have several around TS that might have an idea. Best of luck.
I also don’t do gravel but I do have a friend that competes in area, state and regional events. He has several gravel bikes and his favorite one is from a manufacturer that you would never think of. I can’t think of the name but it’s the one recently introduced by the company that the Walton brothers own and sold through Walmart. And yes, it is a high end bike.
