So what exactly is gravel cycling, where did it come from, and why is it so popular today?
The evolution of gravel bikes
Gravel biking didn’t appear overnight. Its roots stretch back to the mountain bike boom of the 1980s in Northern California, when riders first started pushing beyond smooth asphalt and into rougher terrain. Fast forward to the early 2000s and cyclists began deliberately exploring unpaved roads and fire trails on modified road bikes. It quickly became clear that these mixed surfaces demanded a new kind of bike to meet the specific demands.
Manufacturers responded by developing bikes that blended the efficiency of road cycling with off-road capability. The gravel bike was born: a machine designed to go far, fast, and comfortably over almost anything. Since then, gravel bikes have evolved rapidly, with geometry, drivetrains, and components purpose-built for long days on unpredictable and varied surfaces.
What is a gravel bike?
Gravel bikes sit neatly between road bikes and mountain bikes, borrowing the best from both worlds while creating something distinctly their own.
Compared to road bikes, gravel bikes run wider tyres - typically 35–50 mm - with generous tyre clearance for added traction and comfort. They usually feature drop handlebars, unlike the flat bars of mountain bikes, but with a more relaxed geometry than a pure road racing bike. This setup improves stability on loose surfaces, absorbs vibrations, and keeps riders comfortable over long distances.
Disc brakes are standard, providing consistent stopping power in all conditions, and modern gravel-specific groupsets make it easier to spin up steep, unpaved climbs. While mountain bikes excel on technical singletrack, they can feel heavy and inefficient on smoother gravel. Gravel bikes strike a sweet spot: fast on pavement, confident on dirt, and versatile enough for almost anything in between.
This versatility explains their appeal for bikepacking, endurance rides, and exploring remote countryside routes. Gravel bikes have also found a home in urban riding, offering speed, comfort, and a way to avoid busy main roads. Think of them as the elegant, adventurous cousin of the hybrid bike - with added performance and attitude.
Why gravel bikes make so much sense
Adventure and exploration
Gravel bikes unlock roads and trails that many riders never knew existed. Quiet farm roads, forest tracks, and endless backcountry routes suddenly become fair game. It's the pioneer spirit on two wheels.
Versatility
From smooth asphalt to chunky gravel and light singletrack, gravel bikes handle it all. For riders who want one bike that does almost everything, it’s hard to beat.
Comfort and endurance
Wider tyres and relaxed geometry reduce fatigue, making long rides more enjoyable and accessible - especially for riders new to endurance cycling.
Community and culture
Gravel riding has built a cool, welcoming, inclusive community. The scene embraces individuality, relaxed style, and a “ride your own ride” mentality. There’s less emphasis on strict rules and more on shared experience and having fun.
That slightly rebellious, punk-spirited edge has always been part of gravel’s charm - and it continues to attract riders looking for something a little different.
Gravel racing: competitive, but not exclusive
As gravel riding grew, racing followed. Events like Unbound Gravel helped define the format, especially in the US, where gravel racing offered an alternative path outside traditional road racing structures. The appeal lies in its accessibility: pros and amateurs line up together, often racing as individuals rather than rigid teams. As time passes though, we are seeing an evolution of tactics that does seem to be edging closer to traditional cycling team tactics.
Gravel racing is physically demanding but refreshingly relatable. Riders compete for the challenge, the adventure, and the experience - not just podiums. That atmosphere has even drawn WorldTour pros back to the pure joy of riding, while also capturing attention through storytelling, social media, and stunning landscapes.
While it’s still not the most TV-friendly discipline, gravel racing’s momentum is undeniable. The first UCI Gravel World Championships in 2022 marked a major step forward - and the sport is only gaining legitimacy and appeal. As the big events like Life Time Grand Prix become more established, the next generation of new events are coming along to challenge them. Events like Gravel Worlds and Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder mark a vibrant and healthy local, grassroots movement is developing.
Gravel riding on ROUVY
At ROUVY, variety has always been at the heart of the platform - and gravel is no exception. As demand for off-road and mixed-surface riding continues to grow, indoor cycling app ROUVY has expanded its collection of realistic video gravel routes from around the world.
You can test yourself on iconic climbs like the Sani Gravel Climb in South Africa, explore the rugged beauty of Schultz Pass Road in Arizona, or ride through the lunar landscapes of Capitol Reef National Park in Utah. These routes deliver a true gravel experience and views, offering something refreshingly different from classic road rides.
Even better, ROUVY is partnering with Life Time Gravel Events, bringing legendary US gravel events and routes into the virtual world - Unbound, Crusher, Sea Otter, The Rad, Leadville and Big Sugar. With registration numbers limited for these hugely popular events, it means a wider audience can now experience some of the most famous gravel courses virtually - but also gives a unique opportunity to riders who have entered and are preparing for the event. Riding the course in advance let's the gravel rider know every bend and gradient in advance for a race-day edge. Expect more official gravel routes and events to continue rolling out.
New developments in gravel cycling
Gravel biking continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with innovation driven by both elite racing and everyday riders pushing the limits of what’s possible off-road.
One of the biggest developments is the specialization of bike technology. Modern gravel bikes now offer various geometry options that lean either more “race” or more “adventure,” allowing riders to choose between speed-focused setups or ultra-stable, long-distance machines, depending on their preferences. Suspension elements - such as short-travel forks or built-in frame compliance - are also becoming more common, allowing more control and comfort on rough terrain without sacrificing efficiency.
Tyre technology has seen huge progress too. Tyres are getting wider and wider. 50mm is the new standard with some going up to 60mm. Tubeless setups are now the norm, with faster-rolling tread patterns and improved puncture protection making gravel riding more reliable and confidence-inspiring. Electronic shifting and wide-range drivetrains have also found a natural home in gravel, helping riders tackle steep, loose climbs while staying smooth and efficient.
On the event side, gravel continues to grow globally. What began as grassroots races has expanded into international calendars, world championships, and partnerships with major organizers like Life Time. At the same time, the soul of gravel remains intact: mass participation, personal challenges, and routes that prioritize adventure over spectacle.
Digitally, platforms like ROUVY are playing an increasingly important role. Virtual gravel routes allow riders to experience iconic terrain year-round, train specifically for gravel events, or simply explore new destinations from home. For many riders, this blend of real-world adventure and virtual access is becoming a key part of the gravel lifestyle and an important way to stay fit during the off-season.
All of these developments point confidently in the same direction: gravel biking is maturing, but without losing the freedom, creativity, and community spirit that made it special in the first place.
The nitty-gritty on gravel
Gravel biking blends road efficiency with off-road adventure, wrapped in a culture that values freedom, exploration, and fun. It’s welcoming to newcomers, endlessly challenging for experienced riders, and adaptable enough to fit almost any riding style.
More than just a bike category, gravel represents a clearly defined attitude - a willingness to explore beyond the obvious and enjoy the ride wherever it leads. The gravel lifestyle and vibe is a crucial part of the appeal. One thing’s certain: gravel biking isn’t a passing trend. It’s here to stay, and it’s opening up a whole new world of riding. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time. What are you waiting for?
