Gravel: everything you need to know

Gravel bikes are the perfect choice for cyclists who want a multi-purpose machine capable of delivering peak performance across a broad range of terrains and riding conditions.

Whether a traditional bike or an e-gravel, they’re perfect for short out-of-town rides or longer multi-day adventures.

Gravel bikes are designed to take you wherever you want to go. The term ‘gravel’ refers to non-tarmac roads with an uneven surface of crushed stone or grit: exactly the type of terrain the first gravel bikes were designed to tackle.

Today, whether you want to ride on paved roads, easy mountain trails, dirt roads, cycle paths or along a river bank, this is the bike that lets you combine cycling with camping and exploration.

Gravel bikes: features and uses

Gravel bike frames are made out of materials commonly used on racing bikes, such as aluminium, steel, carbon fibre or titanium. What makes the difference on a gravel bike is frame geometry (and the components). The frame is designed to ensure a comfortable riding position, even over long distances and on uneven terrain: this is generally achieved by having a longer top tube and a higher head tube compared to traditional road bikes.

One of the key features of a gravel bike is that it can mount tyres wider than those used on road bikes, improving grip and comfort on uneven surfaces. Tyre sizes can range from 35 mm to over 50 mm and wheels may be 700c or 650b, depending on rider preferences and the nature of the route.

Let’s talk about the drivetrain. Gravel bikes often have a broader spread of sprocket sizes so that riders can tackle steep climbs and fast descents. Some models opt for a 1x drivetrain (i.e. with a single chainring) to simplify maintenance and reduce weight. Moreover, most gravel bikes feature hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes. These offer superior stopping power and better modulation, crucial safety factors on mixed terrain and in changeable weather.

Note also that gravel bikes often feature multiple mounts for racks, mudguards and luggage, making them ideal for bikepacking and long adventures. The ability to carry extra gear, in fact, is a must for those planning long-distance rides or routes without any accommodation. Last but not least, the handlebars play a crucial role: they need to be wider than those on a racing model and, if necessary, have a ‘flare’ ranging from moderate (about 12 – 16°) to pronounced (up to 24°) to meet individual cyclists’ preferences.

The advantages of Gravel bikes

Ideal for adventurers and bikepackers, gravel bikes were created to meet the needs of cyclists who want to explore mixed road/off-road routes.

One of the biggest advantages of a gravel bike is that it poses few limitations, letting you roam, quite literally, off the beaten track. These bikes are designed to handle even the most varied routes. And by mounting the right luggage, you can carry enough supplies for several days, ensuring you’re ready for whatever adventure the route throws at you.

Another major advantage is the comfort these bikes offer: the riding position is a relaxed one, even more so if you select specific handlebars with special bar tapes and, above all, wider tyres.

Lastly, disc brakes: these are already as-standard on gravel bikes, improving safety on rough terrain and in harsh weather.

Things to consider when buying a Gravel bike: which bar tape should I choose?

Before buying a gravel bike, some important aspects need to be weighed up. Some of these — frame material, wheel size and accessories to match your travel needs — have already been mentioned.

However, there’s another key factor: choosing the right bar tape. This requires careful assessment of its key characteristics, namely material, thickness and grip.

Gravel bike bar tape must be made of materials with excellent cushioning and comfort qualities. It must be able to absorb ground-up vibration and reduce or dampen hand/arm fatigue during long rides over rugged terrain.

Nabico’s EVA and Silicone SilicoGrip 3D model consists of an EVA base combined with a special 3D silicone print. The formula was specifically designed for this combination of materials and to deliver outstanding comfort. Pleasant to the touch and impressively grippy, this silicone rubber bar tape has excellent shock-absorbing properties, as it soaks up and dissipates energy by temporarily flexing.

The Nabico Roubaix Tattoo and Roubaix Dots models, instead, have a special PVC blend, formulated to maximise hand support and optimise comfort and shock absorption.

As for thickness, it should be understood that gravel bike bar tape tends to be thicker than that on traditional road bikes. Greater thickness means better dampening and enhanced comfort: a must when tackling uneven surfaces. Nabico gravel bike bar tapes are between 3 and 3.5 mm thick.

Gravel bar tape surfaces are designed to guarantee a firm grip, even when things get wet and muddy. Anti-slip texture, better purchase and moisture-resistant materials help maintain optimal bike control, reducing the risk of unwanted slips. For example, Nabico Roubaix Tattoo and Roubaix Dots bar tapes feature raised dots, delivering a snug, secure grip. Alternatively, SilicoGrip 3D has a special 3D print to deliver ‘100% anti-slip’ performance.

Since gravel bikes are often ridden under intense, gnarly conditions, the bar tape is designed to be highly resistant to wear and tear. High-quality materials and solid construction ensure lasting performance, even during heavy-duty non-stop rides. Nabico tapes do not fade or lose their elasticity and are sweat-resistant. They wear slowly and can withstand rain, sunlight and salt water. What’s more, use of 3M adhesives guarantees secure, stable, long-lasting attachment to the bars. Nevertheless, regardless of the state of wear, it’s always good practice to change your bar tape at least once a year, at the end of the season.

And for event organisers, teams and those who ‘go gravel’ at competitive level, Nabico offers customised bar tapes to give a personal touch that’s tailored to individual tastes.

Why is the right bar tape crucial on a Gravel bike?

Gravel bike bar tapes are an essential component on mixed-surface routes and dirt trails. This often-underestimated accessory actually plays a key role in improving comfort, grip and bike control, especially on long, rough rides. Investing in a good bar tape can make the difference between a pleasant ride and an uncomfortable one, making every gravel adventure even more fulfilling.

See the entire Nabico gravel bike collection, produced with the market’s best materials, all rigorously Made-in-Italy and certified to meet the needs of gravel riders everywhere!