Full speed down the trail, then it’s a few switchbacks on the road, climbing step by step, only to rush back down to the valley on a forestry road. Gravel bikes excel at one thing – they need to work when we need them to. Regardless of the terrain, whether on a gentle or hard multi-day tour through the SalzburgerLand, no matter the weather or time of day. A bike for all occasions, which, in the best case, you don’t have to worry about.
THE SMALL, SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES
The biggest difference between a classic road bike, an MTB, and a gravel bike lies beneath the tires. While you’re on paved roads with the racer and typically avoid roads when mountain biking, the gravel bike feels at home in both worlds. In weather conditions where others seek shelter long ago, on gravel roads, narrow paths, and tight descents – the more extreme the conditions, the more comfortable you will feel on a gravel bike.
While road bikes are optimized for speed and efficiency with narrower tires and a shorter wheelbase, these factors are somewhat secondary in gravel biking. Wider tires and the increased tire clearance that comes with them ensure that traction is not easily lost. The longer wheelbase and lower bottom bracket create a more relaxed and upright sitting position, providing additional stability off-road.
Hydraulic disc brakes, which reliably brake regardless of the terrain, a dropper post that quickly lowers the saddle on difficult descents, the wider handlebar, and various options for attaching luggage, make the gravel bike the ideal ride for your next outdoor adventure through the SalzburgerLand.
So, what reasons are there not to start gravel biking? From our perspective, absolutely none. Here, however, are 7 reasons why now is the right time to start.
