The Complete Gravel Bike & Tire Guide
Gravel bikes are not road bikes with wider tires. They are built around terrain variability, long-distance comfort, and real-world durability. This guide explains gravel geometry, drivetrain choices, tire width, tread patterns, tubeless systems, and how to choose a setup that actually matches where you ride.
Gravel riding sits between road and mountain biking. The goal isn’t speed or suspension — it’s efficiency over unpredictable surfaces.
- Wider tire clearance (typically 40–50mm)
- Stable geometry for long rides
- Lower gearing for rolling terrain
- Mounting points for bags and accessories
Authority note: Most riders don’t need suspension for gravel. They need correct tire width and correct pressure. Comfort is 80% tire system.
What a gravel bike actually is
Fit & geometry
Gravel geometry prioritizes stability, comfort, and control on loose terrain.
1x vs 2x drivetrains
Mechanic truth: 1x simplifies maintenance. 2x provides tighter cadence jumps and higher top-end.
Gravel tires explained
How to choose your setup
- Mostly pavement + light gravel: 38–42mm semi-slick
- Mixed terrain: 42–45mm semi-knob
- Loose routes: 45–50mm knobby
Biggest mistake: Buying tires based on marketing photos instead of weekly riding conditions.
FAQ
I need help picking a gravel tire — can I come into the store?
Absolutely. Stop by Go Grava anytime and we’ll help match tires to your actual riding conditions. We stock more gravel tire options than any other store in the area and can walk you through width, tread, and pressure recommendations in person.
I understand tubeless — can you help me set it up?
Yes. We help gravel riders convert to tubeless every week. We’ll review rim compatibility, tire fit, sealant options, and make sure everything is installed correctly so you leave with fewer flats and better ride quality.
How wide should my gravel tires really be?
That depends on your terrain, rider weight, and comfort goals — but most riders benefit from wider tires than they expect. In-store we’ll help dial in width and pressure based on where you ride weekly.
Do I need special wheels or a new bike to ride gravel?
Not always. Many riders start with tire changes or wheel upgrades. We’ll help you determine whether your current bike works for gravel — and what makes sense to upgrade first.
Come to Go Grava for Gravel Help
We’re East Coast gravel specialists. We’ve been riding and racing gravel for decades — long before most people even called it gravel.
From tire choice and tubeless setup to bike fit and drivetrain decisions, we help riders build setups that actually work.
Weekly local gravel rides — all skill levels welcome.
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