When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Entry Level Gravel Bike (2024 Update)

Whether you are just getting into cycling or looking for a new adventure, purchasing your first gravel bike can seem daunting. With so many options and factors to consider, it is important to understand your needs and riding style before investing in an entry-level model. However, with the right research and guidance, finding the ideal gravel bike to match your budget and goals is entirely achievable.

When beginning your search, consider how and where you plan to ride. Will you be riding mostly on paved roads or do you envision taking on more rugged terrain? Do you want a versatile bike for commuting and exercise or one tailored for racing and endurance events? Evaluating your intended usage will help determine priorities like gearing, tire clearance, and frame geometry.

It is also wise to assess your current fitness level and cycling experience. Opting for a more relaxed geometry and stable handling bike enables new riders to build skills and confidence. Whereas experienced cyclists may prefer a more aggressive setup for increased power and responsiveness over variable surfaces. Test riding different models is invaluable for getting a feel for what works best.

While navigating the range of component, frame material and wheel options can seem confusing initially, having a clear sense of your riding style, terrain and skill level will make selecting the right entry-level gravel bike a smooth and rewarding process. With a bit of research and guidance from knowledgeable experts, getting out and enjoying the freedom of riding gravel is an adventure well within reach.

10 Best Entry Level Gravel Bike

1. Shimano Tourney Gravel Adventure Bike With Disc Brakes, Medium, Matte Black

The Tommaso Siena is an incredibly versatile adventure gravel bike that is perfect for both on-road and off-road touring. Designed with a lightweight aluminum frame and a durable SST steel fork, the Siena is able to withstand the most rugged of terrain while also offering a comfortable ride. For maximum performance and speed, the Siena is equipped with a 3×7 Shimano Tourney Groupset, featuring a 30/39/50T Claris crankset and 12x28T Tourney cassette. This combination ensures that you can tackle any terrain, from flat to hilly, with ease.

For added stability and versatility, the Siena is fitted with extra wide 700x40c tires for a smoother ride on rougher terrain. The rims are made from Tommaso TC-20D and feature 28 spokes, making them rugged and durable enough to handle any terrain you might encounter. Additionally, the bike is equipped with Avid BB5 disc brakes for increased stopping power in adverse weather conditions.

To ensure that you get the most out of every ride, the Siena has been designed with a compact frame geometry and premium compact handlebars for increased power and comfort. This combination makes the Siena perfect for both long and short rides. To ensure optimal performance, it is recommended that the Siena is professionally assembled before riding. This will also validate the warranties of your new bike. With the Tommaso Siena, you can be sure that you will have a reliable and rugged bike that is perfect for any terrain.

2. Tommaso Sentiero Gravel Bike, Claris Adventure Disc, Extra Wide Tires, Road/trail Touring, Matte Black/red – Medium

The Tommaso Sentiero Gravel Bike is the perfect choice for the rider looking for the perfect blend of performance and durability. With a lightweight aluminum frame combined with an SST steel fork, the Sentiero is designed to last a lifetime and offers exceptional durability and strength. It’s also drilled for all varieties of racks and fenders, making it an ideal choice for commuters and touring riders.

The Sentiero offers unbeatable performance and speed, thanks to its 3×8 Shimano Claris groupset, featuring a 30/39/50T Claris crankset and 12x25T Claris cassette. Perfect for varying terrain, from flats to hills to rocky climbs, this bike offers a wide range of gears for all levels of riders in all conditions.

The Sentiero also features Tommaso TC-20D rims and wider 700x 40c tires, giving the rider a rugged and durable ride, perfect for tackling all types of terrain. For added stopping power, the bike is equipped with Avid BB5 disc brakes, making it perfect for all weather and terrain conditions.

The frame geometry and premium compact handlebars of the Sentiero are designed to offer maximum comfort and efficiency while riding. If you’re in-between sizes, sizing down is a more comfortable ride and sizing up is a more aggressive, race feel.

For optimal performance, the Tommaso Sentiero Gravel Bike should be professionally assembled before riding. With its durable construction, powerful performance, and optimized fit for comfort, the Sentiero is the perfect bike for road or dirt trail touring.

3. Shimano Sh-Rc100 Feature-Packed Entry Level Road Shoe, Black, 7.5-8 Men (Eu 41)

The Shimano SH-RC100 is the perfect entry-level road cycling shoe for any cyclist who is looking for an affordable but feature-packed option. It is constructed with a durable and breathable perforated synthetic leather upper that will keep the rider comfortable and ventilated for the long-term. The wraparound upper design ensures that the shoe will fit even the broadest of feet, while the BOA dial provides precise custom fit.

The SH-RC100 also features an additional level of stability when off the bike with its wide heel pads for a confident stride. The sole of the shoe is also constructed with a fibreglass reinforced material, providing optimal power transfer that any cyclist would need.

The Shimano SH-RC100 is a great option for cyclists who are looking for a high-quality and feature-packed shoe at an entry-level price. The shoe is designed to provide the ultimate comfort and performance, while also being able to withstand the wear and tear of long-term cycling. The perforated synthetic leather upper ensures breathability, while the BOA dial provides a precise and custom fit. The shoe is also designed with a fibreglass reinforced sole for optimal power transfer and wide heel pads for stability when off the bike.

4. Vittoria Terreno Rigid Bike Tires For Gravel (40-622, Full Black)

The Vittoria Terreno Rigid is the perfect tire for those looking for speed, versatility, and performance. It is designed for entry-level gravel riders, but its durability and puncture resistance makes it suitable for all kinds of terrain.

The Terreno Rigid transitions smoothly from gravel to medium conditions cross country. Its consistent performance ensures that you will always get the most out of your ride. It also performs well in wet conditions, giving you more confidence in your ride.

Vittoria is the official tire of USA Cycling, and is the tire of choice for professional riders in the peloton. It has won the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, Classics, World Championships, European Championships and Olympic Games.

The Terreno Rigid is an affordable and highly versatile tire that can handle all kinds of terrain. Whether you’re an entry level gravel rider, an experienced cyclocross racer, or just someone who enjoys an adventurous ride, the Terreno Rigid is the perfect tire for you.

The Terreno Rigid combines speed and traction with durability and puncture resistance. It is designed to take on all kinds of terrain, so you can be sure that it will perform in any conditions. With its reliable performance, the Terreno Rigid is the perfect tire for any adventure.

5. Lezyne Side Load Flow Bottle Cage (Right, Black)

The LEZYNE Side Load Flow Bottle Cage is the perfect addition to any cyclist's repertoire. It is designed to provide easy access to water bottles in even the most cramped road and mountain bike frames. The composite matrix construction, a high-strength fiber reinforced material, provides a balance of weight savings and strength, with the SL Flow weighing in at only 48 grams. The oval mounting holes allow for fine-tuning of the bottle cage position on the frame.

Every product from LEZYNE is intelligently engineered and designed with a combination of a love for cycling and a passion for design. The Side Load Flow Bottle Cage is just one of many examples of this commitment to providing the best possible cycling products. This bottle cage is designed to be lightweight yet strong and durable, with an optimized side-load shape for quick access.

The LEZYNE Side Load Flow Bottle Cage is a must-have for any cyclist. Whether you're out on a road or mountain bike ride, this bottle cage provides easy access to water and other drinks with its side-load shape. The composite matrix construction makes it lightweight yet strong, and the oval mounting holes allow for easy fine-tuning of the position. With a combination of passion for cycling and design, LEZYNE provides a great product that is sure to be an essential part of any cyclist's gear.

6. Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H Tire – Tubeless Classic, 700x40c

The Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H Tire is the perfect choice for cyclists looking to tackle compact terrain and hard surfaces. Its tubeless classic design offers improved grip and control, allowing you to take on the toughest trails with confidence. The tire's unique tread pattern provides enhanced traction and braking power, allowing you to take on steep inclines and sharp turns with ease.

At the heart of this tire is a robust, high-density rubber compound with an optimized tread pattern for maximum grip and stability. This compound helps to absorb shocks and vibrations, providing a cushioned ride even on the roughest surfaces. The tire also features a strong and durable sidewall construction for added protection and durability.

The Cinturato Gravel H Tire is available in 700x40c size, making it the perfect choice for gravel cycling, city riding, and even road cycling. Its light weight makes it an ideal choice for riders who want to save energy and gain speed.

In addition to its lightweight and durable construction, the tire also features an anti-puncture protection technology, which helps to prevent flats and reduce the risk of punctures. This technology also helps to reduce rolling resistance, allowing you to enjoy a smoother ride.

Overall, the Cinturato Gravel H Tire is the perfect choice for cyclists looking to tackle a variety of terrains with confidence. Its tubeless classic design, lightweight construction, and anti-puncture protection technology make it a great choice for those who want to hit the trails and roads with confidence.

7. Shimano Sh-Rc702 Competition-Level Men's Road Cycling Shoe, White, 11.5-12

The SHIMANO SH-RC702 is designed to provide a competition-level performance for road cyclists. It is incredibly lightweight, yet incredibly rigid thanks to its carbon midsole. This not only reduces energy loss, but also increases airflow to help keep you cool and dry on long rides.

The upper of the shoe is made of high-density material, designed to integrate seamlessly with the midsole to provide a stable base for maximum power transfer. The synthetic leather and mesh upper also provides an incredibly comfortable fit that wraps around your foot and provides long-lasting comfort.

The SH-RC702 is also equipped with SPD-SL cleats, making it compatible with SPD-SL/3-hole pedals for optimal pedaling efficiency. The cleats are not included, but can be purchased separately.

For those looking for a competition-level road cycling shoe, the SHIMANO SH-RC702 is a great option. It is lightweight, comfortable, and designed for powerful pedaling performance. With its high-density upper and carbon midsole, you can be sure that your foot is stable and your energy is not wasted. The SPD-SL cleats also make it compatible with SPD-SL/3-hole pedals, giving you optimal pedaling efficiency.

8. Vittoria Terreno Mix G2.0 Tubeless Mtb Tire (700x35c)

Vittoria has designed the ultimate tire for gravel and cyclocross racing – the Terreno Mix G2.0 Tubeless TNT MTB Tire. This 700x35c tire has been developed with the help of professional riders in the peloton, and has been used to win the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, Classics, World Championships, European Championships and Olympic Games.

The Terreno Mix G2.0 is designed for versatility, providing fast-rolling performance on paved surfaces and hard-packed gravel. The center tread is inspired by the Corsa for a smooth ride, while the side tread “scales” provide durable bite when cornering and braking. This unique tread pattern ensures that the Terreno Mix G2.0 will perform unlike any other tire.

The Terreno Mix G2.0 is the perfect tire for those who ride a lot of roads, but also want to venture off-road occasionally. It is light, fast and reliable, and is the perfect choice for any serious gravel or cyclocross racer. With Vittoria as the official tire of USA Cycling, you can be assured of the highest quality and performance.

So if you’re looking for the ultimate tire for gravel and cyclocross racing, look no further than the Terreno Mix G2.0 Tubeless TNT MTB Tire by Vittoria. With its unique tread design, light weight and reliable performance, you can be sure you’ll be in the best possible position to win.

9. Gravel: The Ultimate Guide To The Gear, Training, And Grit You Need To Crush It

Gravel: The Ultimate Guide to the Gear, Training, and Grit You Need to Crush It is an essential resource for anyone interested in taking on the challenge of gravel cycling. Written by Bicycling's Fit Chick, Selene Yeager, an NASM-certified personal trainer and gravel-loving cyclist, this 192-page book provides a comprehensive look at the special cycling equipment, unique fitness demands, fueling strategies, finesse, gear, and grit necessary to succeed.

The book starts off with an overview of the types of terrain one may encounter while gravel cycling, and how to best tackle each one. It then moves on to explaining the specific gear needed for gravel riding, as well as the technique and finesse needed for tackling the most challenging sections. Selene also dives into the fitness demands of the sport and provides a comprehensive training plan to get you ready for your next gravel ride.

In addition to providing an in-depth look at the gear, technique, and fitness needed for gravel cycling, the book also tackles the mental and emotional aspects of the sport. Selene provides strategies for building confidence and tackling fear, as well as advice on how to stay motivated and enjoy the ride.

Gravel: The Ultimate Guide to the Gear, Training, and Grit You Need to Crush It is a must-have resource for anyone interested in taking on the challenge of gravel cycling. With its comprehensive look at the equipment, technique, fitness, and psychological demands of the sport, this book is sure to help you tackle your next gravel ride with confidence.

10. Terreno Dry G2.0 Tubeless Tnt Tire (700x33c)

The Vittoria Terreno Dry Bike Tires are the perfect choice for cyclists looking for speed and versatility. These tires are designed for gravel and dry terrain conditions, with a unique “fish scale” tread design that offers a fast roll and excellent traction when cornering and braking.

The center tread is designed to roll quickly, while the “fish scales” stand up to offer superior grip in dry terrain. The transition height mid and side treads make the Terreno Dry an ideal tire for gravel grinding and medium conditions cross racing. It’s the perfect tire for cyclists looking for consistent performance in dry terrain.

Vittoria is the official tire of USA Cycling and the tire of choice for professional riders in the peloton. It has been used in winning races such as the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, Vuelta a España, Classics, World Championships, European Championships, and Olympic Games.

For cyclists looking for a tire that achieves the perfect balance of speed and grip in dry terrain, the Vittoria Terreno Dry G2.0 Tubeless TNT Tire (700x33c) is the ideal choice. With its unique “fish scale” design, the Terreno Dry offers performance that stands out from the rest.

Best Entry Level Gravel Bike FAQs

How do I choose my first gravel bike?

When choosing your first gravel bike, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, you should think about the type of terrain you plan to ride on. If you plan to ride on roads, a road bike with wider tires may be a better option. If you plan to ride on trails, a mountain bike with wider tires may be a better option. Secondly, you should consider the type of riding you plan to do. If you plan to do long-distance rides, a gravel bike with a more relaxed geometry may be a better option. If you plan to do more technical riding, a gravel bike with a more aggressive geometry may be a better option. Finally, you should consider your budget. Gravel bikes can range from entry-level to high-end, so you should decide how much you are willing to spend. Once you have considered these factors, you can begin to narrow down your options and find the perfect gravel bike for you.

Is 1x good for gravel bike?

Yes, 1x is a good option for a gravel bike. It offers a simpler drivetrain with fewer moving parts, which can be beneficial for gravel riding. It also eliminates the need for a front derailleur, which can be difficult to maintain in rough terrain. Additionally, 1x drivetrains are typically lighter than 2x drivetrains, which can be beneficial for gravel riding. Finally, 1x drivetrains offer a wide range of gear ratios, allowing you to find the perfect gear for any terrain. All in all, 1x is a great option for a gravel bike, offering a simpler, lighter, and more versatile drivetrain.

Is it OK to ride a gravel bike on the road?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to ride a gravel bike on the road. Gravel bikes are designed to be versatile and can handle a variety of terrain, including roads. They are typically equipped with wider tires than a traditional road bike, which provides more stability and comfort on the road. Additionally, gravel bikes often have a more upright riding position, which can be more comfortable for longer rides. However, it is important to note that gravel bikes are not as fast as traditional road bikes, so if speed is your primary concern, a road bike may be a better option.

What is the cheapest topstone?

The cheapest topstone available on the market is the Topstone Carbon Lefty 3, which retails for around $2,500. This bike is designed for gravel and adventure riding, and features a full carbon frame, Lefty Oliver fork, and SRAM Force 1x drivetrain. It also has a dropper post, hydraulic disc brakes, and WTB wheels and tires. The bike is lightweight and responsive, making it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly gravel bike. It is also designed to be comfortable and stable, making it a great choice for those who want to explore the outdoors.

Similar Posts