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Gravel & mixed
Pavement plus dirt roads and easy trails on one bike.
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Kent Ridgeway 700c
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$
A budget step-through commuter that arrives ready for errands with fenders and a rear rack. The 21-speed twist shifters and V-brakes are basic but easy to fix, while the cheap coil fork mostly adds weight to a bike that is already about 15.9 kg. Expect to true the wheels and adjust the cup-and-cone hubs more often than on a shop bike.
Sizes: One Size: 5′3″–6′0″
| Gearing | 3×7 (21 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Rim (V-brakes) |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | 35 lb (15.9 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 2/5 |
- • Rim brakes: Cheap and easy to service, but weaker in the rain and they wear the rims.
- − Screw-on freewheel: Fewer gearing upgrades fit, and the rear axle is more likely to bend under heavy riders.
- • 3 front rings: A wide range for hills, but more to adjust and a front derailleur to keep tuned.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- − Budget suspension fork: Adds weight and bob on pavement; a rigid fork is often nicer on a hybrid.
- − Older 1-inch headset: Fewer modern stems and forks fit.
Where to buy: Buy at Walmart
Ozark Trail G.1 Explorer Flat Bar
Flat-bar gravel / hybrid · 2024 · $$$$
A good fit if you want a cheap flat-bar bike for paths, gravel and commuting, with rack and fender mounts and 40 mm tires. The Shimano Altus 1x8 with an 11-32 cassette keeps shifting simple, and the aluminum frame has a replaceable derailleur hanger. The single-piston mechanical discs need regular pad adjustment, and with a steel fork it weighs about 14 kg.
Sizes: S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′10″ · L: 5′10″–6′3″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Buy at Walmart
Ozark Trail G.1 Explorer Drop Bar
Gravel (drop bar) · 2024 · $$$$
A very cheap way into gravel riding, commuting and light bikepacking, with drop bars, wide tires and plenty of mounts. The mechanical discs and 2x7 drivetrain work but are basic, and the 7-speed freewheel limits gearing upgrades. Check which version you have, since early 2024 bikes came with a steel fork and 40 mm tires.
Sizes: S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′10″ · L: 5′10″–6′3″
| Gearing | 2×7 (14 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 30 lb (13.8 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 3.5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- − Screw-on freewheel: Fewer gearing upgrades fit, and the rear axle is more likely to bend under heavy riders.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Buy at Walmart
Retrospec Harper
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A simple steel single-speed for flat city riding, with a flip-flop hub that runs a 16T freewheel on one side and a fixed cog on the other. Dual-pivot caliper brakes and 700 x 32 tires keep it easy to look after at about 12.4 kg. The 44/16 gear can feel tall on hills, and riding fixed takes practice, so start on the freewheel side.
Sizes: S (48cm): 5′3″–5′6″ · M (52cm): 5′5″–5′8″ · L (56cm): 5′7″–6′0″ · XL (60cm): 5′9″–6′2″
| Gearing | Single speed |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Rim (caliper) |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 32 mm tires |
| Weight | 27 lb (12.4 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 1.5/5 |
- • Rim brakes: Cheap and easy to service, but weaker in the rain and they wear the rims.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- − Older 1-inch headset: Fewer modern stems and forks fit.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Retrospec Amok 8
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A flat-bar gravel and commuter bike with rack mounts, 700 x 40 tires and Shimano Altus 1x8 on an 11-32 cassette. The Zoom mechanical discs need regular adjustment, and the high-tensile steel fork adds weight to a bike that is about 13.6 kg. Check sizing carefully, since the M only covers riders about 168 to 173 cm.
Sizes: XS (45cm): 5′0″–5′3″ · S (49cm): 5′2″–5′5″ · M (53cm): 5′6″–5′8″ · L (57cm): 5′9″–5′11″ · XL (61cm): 6′0″–6′6″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 30 lb (13.6 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Cannondale Quick 4
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A good pick for paved fitness rides and short commutes, with rack, fender and kickstand mounts for errands. The 2x7 Acera drivetrain on a 12-32 cassette and the V-brakes are simple and cheap to keep running, but rim brakes lose bite in the rain and the steel fork rides a bit firm. The 35mm Schwalbe Spicer Plus tires are fine on pavement and smooth gravel, not rough dirt.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′3″ · S: 5′2″–5′7″ · M: 5′5″–5′10″ · L: 5′9″–6′2″ · XL: 6′0″–6′5″ · XXL: 6′4″–6′9″
| Gearing | 2×7 (14 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Rim (V-brakes) |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 4.5/5 |
- • Rim brakes: Cheap and easy to service, but weaker in the rain and they wear the rims.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Buy at REI · Maker's page
Marin Fairfax 1
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
Good pick if you want a light, simple hybrid for commuting, errands and fitness rides on pavement. The mechanical disc brakes stop more consistently in the wet than rim brakes, and it has mounts for racks, fenders and a kickstand. The 3x7 drivetrain is basic and the steel fork is a little heavy, but it is all easy to service.
Sizes: XS: 4′11″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′8″ · L: 5′8″–5′11″ · XL: 5′11″–6′3″
| Gearing | 3×7 (21 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- • 3 front rings: A wide range for hills, but more to adjust and a front derailleur to keep tuned.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Polygon Path 2
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A practical commuter for errands and fitness rides, with Tektro M280 mechanical discs, 40mm tires and rack and fender mounts. The 1x8 setup with a 42T ring and an 11-45 cassette keeps shifting simple and still gives a low climbing gear. The alloy rigid fork rides firm, and the mechanical discs need occasional pad adjustment.
Sizes: S: 4′11″–5′4″ · M: 5′4″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′2″ · XL: 6′2″–6′5″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 27 lb (12.1 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Schwinn Discover 2 700c
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
Good pick if you want a comfy commuter that comes ready with fenders and a rear rack. The suspension fork and seatpost soften rough pavement, and the 21 trigger-shifted gears are easy to use. The V-brakes need wet-weather caution, and the 7-speed freewheel limits gearing upgrades.
Sizes: One Size: 5′5″–6′0″
| Gearing | 3×7 (21 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Rim (V-brakes) |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 700c × 38 mm tires |
| Weight | 37 lb (16.6 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 3/5 |
- • Rim brakes: Cheap and easy to service, but weaker in the rain and they wear the rims.
- − Screw-on freewheel: Fewer gearing upgrades fit, and the rear axle is more likely to bend under heavy riders.
- • 3 front rings: A wide range for hills, but more to adjust and a front derailleur to keep tuned.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Buy at Walmart · Buy at Amazon · Maker's page
Giant Escape Disc 3
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A no-fuss commuter hybrid for errands and bike paths, with rack and fender mounts and room for tires up to 45 mm. The mechanical discs stop better than rim brakes in the wet, but the 3x7 Tourney drivetrain runs on a thread-on freewheel, which limits gearing upgrades. The steel fork rides firm, so running the tires at the lower end of their pressure range helps comfort.
Sizes: XS: 4′11″–5′3″ · S: 5′3″–5′7″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · L: 5′11″–6′3″ · XL: 6′3″–6′7″
| Gearing | 3×7 (21 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 38 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 3.5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- − Screw-on freewheel: Fewer gearing upgrades fit, and the rear axle is more likely to bend under heavy riders.
- • 3 front rings: A wide range for hills, but more to adjust and a front derailleur to keep tuned.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
REI Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A dependable commuter and path bike, with room for 45mm tires, rack and fender mounts and Tektro mechanical discs on 160mm rotors. The 2x8 Shimano drivetrain with a 12-32 cassette is simple to maintain. At about 13.7 kg it is not light, the aluminum fork rides firm, and the mechanical discs need occasional pad adjustment.
Sizes: XS: 5′0″–5′3″ · S: 5′3″–5′6″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′3″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 30 lb (13.7 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Buy at REI
Cannondale Treadwell 3
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2024 · $$$$
Made for relaxed rides around town: low standover, wide swept bars and 47 mm 650b tires that smooth out rough pavement. The 1x7 microSHIFT drivetrain with an 11-34 cassette is simple and has a usable low gear, and the 160 mm mechanical discs keep working in the wet. The steel fork and 7-speed gearing keep it basic, so it is not the bike for long fast rides.
Sizes: SM: 4′11″–5′6″ · MD: 5′4″–6′0″ · LG: 5′10″–6′5″
| Gearing | 1×7 (7 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 650b (27.5") × 47 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Cypress 3
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2022 · $$$$
A relaxed, upright comfort hybrid for paved paths and neighborhood loops. The adjustable quill stem lets you bring the bars up high, and the 1x8 microSHIFT drivetrain with a 12-42 cassette keeps shifting simple with a genuinely easy low gear. The steel fork and mechanical discs add weight and need the occasional cable adjustment as pads wear, and on a used one check that the quill stem is not seized in the steerer.
Sizes: S: 5′3″–5′7″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · L: 5′11″–6′3″ · XL: 6′3″–6′7″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 45 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- − Older 1-inch headset: Fewer modern stems and forks fit.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Sirrus 2.0
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2024 · $$$$
A good commuter and fitness hybrid, with Promax hydraulic discs, rack and fender mounts and a 2x8 microSHIFT drivetrain on an 11-32 cassette. The 32mm RoadSport tires roll quickly on pavement, and the frame takes up to 42mm tires for rougher paths. The hi-ten steel fork is the heavy, harsh part of the bike.
Sizes: XXS: 4′8″–4′11″ · XS: 4′11″–5′2″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′4″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 32 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Escape Disc 2
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A practical commuter and fitness hybrid for paved paths and the odd gravel stretch, with rack and fender mounts. The 1x9 drivetrain with an 11-46 cassette is simple to use, and the Tektro hydraulic discs stop well in the rain. The rigid alloy fork and 38 mm tires pass rough roads straight to your hands, so use the room for 45 mm tires if you want more comfort.
Sizes: S: 5′3″–5′7″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · L: 5′11″–6′3″ · XL: 6′3″–6′7″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 38 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek FX 2 Gen 4
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
A light, easy fitness hybrid for commuting and rides, about 12.1 kg, with hydraulic disc brakes that stop well in the wet. The Shimano CUES 1x9 with an 11-46 cassette is simple and has a very low gear for hills, and there are mounts for a rack and fenders. Tires top out at about 40 mm, so it is not built for rough trails.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′6″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | 27 lb (12.1 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
REI Co-op Cycles CTY 2.1
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2026 · $$$$
Good pick for commuting, paved paths and light gravel. The hydraulic discs stop well in the wet, the 1x8 with an 11-45 cassette is simple with easy climbing gears, and there are mounts for a rack, fenders and a kickstand. The 63mm coil fork adds weight, so expect a fairly heavy bike.
Sizes: XS: 5′0″–5′3″ · S: 5′3″–5′6″ · M: 5′6″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′3″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | Front fork |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 32 lb (14.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Buy at REI
Trek Verve 2 Gen 5
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A comfortable upright hybrid for relaxed rides on paths and town streets, with 45mm tires, a suspension seatpost, swept bars and an adjustable-rise stem. The 1x9 Shimano CUES drivetrain with an 11-46 cassette is simple, and Tektro hydraulic discs stop well in the wet. Wheels use quick-release axles, and the suspension seatpost is worth checking for play as it ages.
Sizes: S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′6″
| Gearing | 1×9 (9 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 45 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Sirrus X 2.0
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
Good pick for commuting and mixed pavement-and-gravel paths. The hydraulic discs stop well in the wet, the 42mm tires handle rough roads, and the 1x8 with a 12-42 cassette keeps shifting simple with easy climbing gears. The Hi-Ten steel fork adds some weight, and the tires are not tubeless ready.
Sizes: XXS: 4′8″–4′11″ · XS: 4′11″–5′2″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′0″ · XL: 6′0″–6′4″
| Gearing | 1×8 (8 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 42 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- • Steel frame: Comfortable and repairable, but heavier than aluminum.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Salsa Journeyer Claris 700
Gravel (drop bar) · 2023 · $$$$
A relaxed adventure bike for touring, bikepacking, gravel and commuting, with rack, fender and bottle mounts on the frame and the Fantail fork. The Claris 2x8 with a 46/30 crank and 11-34 cassette gives low gears for loaded climbs, and it clears up to 50 mm tires. The Tektro cable discs are the weak point, so on a used one check the pads, rotors and QR axles.
Sizes: 49: 4′8″–5′0″ · 51: 4′11″–5′3″ · 53: 5′2″–5′7″ · 55: 5′5″–5′10″ · 57: 5′8″–6′1″ · 60: 6′0″–6′5″
| Gearing | 2×8 (16 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 38 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek FX 3 Gen 4 (FX 3 Disc)
Hybrid / flat-bar · 2025 · $$$$
A light, quick fitness hybrid at about 11.5 kg, with a carbon fork, Shimano hydraulic discs and tubeless-ready rims. The 1x10 Shimano CUES drivetrain with an 11-48 cassette gives a wide range with one shifter. Tire clearance tops out at 40mm, so it suits pavement and smooth gravel more than rough trails.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′1″ · S: 5′1″–5′5″ · M: 5′5″–5′9″ · L: 5′9″–6′1″ · XL: 6′1″–6′6″ · XXL: 6′6″–6′8″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 35 mm tires |
| Weight | 25 lb (11.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Cannondale Topstone 4
Gravel (drop bar) · 2025 · $$$$
A good one-bike pick for gravel roads, light trails and commuting, with rack, fender and three bottle mounts. The 1x10 microSHIFT setup with an 11-48 cassette gives easy climbing gears and simple shifting, and the carbon fork and thru-axles keep the front end precise. The weak spot is the cable disc brakes, which need more hand force and more pad adjustment than hydraulics.
Sizes: XS: 4′10″–5′5″ · SM: 5′4″–5′9″ · MD: 5′7″–6′1″ · LG: 5′10″–6′4″ · XL: 6′3″–6′8″
| Gearing | 1×10 (10 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 37 mm tires |
| Weight | 23 lb (10.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 23 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Giant Revolt 2
Gravel (drop bar) · 2026 · $$$$
A sensible gravel bike for dirt roads and mixed rides, with 12mm thru-axles, tubeless-ready rims and room for up to 53mm tires using the flip chip. The 2x9 Shimano CUES gearing gives a low 32x36 climbing gear. The Shimano RS305 mechanical disc brakes work but need pad adjustment as they wear and do not have the power of hydraulics.
Sizes: XS: 5′1″–5′5″ · S: 5′3″–5′7″ · M: 5′7″–5′11″ · M/L: 5′9″–6′1″ · L: 5′10″–6′3″ · XL: 6′2″–6′7″
| Gearing | 2×9 (18 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 45 mm tires |
| Weight | — |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Specialized Diverge 3 Alloy (Diverge E5, Shimano CUES)
Gravel (drop bar) · 2026 · $$$$
A capable gravel bike that also handles commuting and loaded touring, with rack and fender mounts and room for 47 mm tires. The 2x10 Shimano CUES group with hydraulic discs and 12 mm thru-axles is a real step up from budget gravel bikes, and the carbon fork takes some sting out of rough roads. The stock Pathfinder tires are wire bead and the setup is not tubeless ready, so tires are the first worthwhile upgrade.
Sizes: 44: 4′8″–5′0″ · 49: 5′0″–5′4″ · 52: 5′4″–5′7″ · 54: 5′7″–5′10″ · 56: 5′9″–5′11″ · 58: 5′11″–6′2″ · 61: 6′2″–6′5″
| Gearing | 2×10 (20 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 23 lb (10.5 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 5/5 |
- + Hydraulic disc brakes: Strong, light-touch stopping that works in the wet and self-adjusts as pads wear.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 23 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
Where to buy: Maker's page
Trek Checkpoint ALR 4
Gravel (drop bar) · 2025 · $$$$
Made for gravel roads, bikepacking and fast mixed-surface rides. The carbon fork, thru-axles, SRAM Apex 1x11 and room for 45mm tires make it a capable all-rounder, and it has mounts for racks, fenders and frame bags. The cable disc brakes need more hand effort and adjustment than hydraulics, and the T47 bottom bracket needs the right tool.
Sizes: 49: 5′1″–5′4″ · 52: 5′4″–5′6″ · 54: 5′6″–5′9″ · 56: 5′9″–5′11″ · 58: 5′11″–6′1″ · 61: 6′1″–6′3″
| Gearing | 1×11 (11 speeds) |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Mechanical disc |
| Suspension | None (rigid) |
| Wheels | 700c × 40 mm tires |
| Weight | 22 lb (9.9 kg) |
| Easy to work on | 4.5/5 |
- + Disc brakes: Stop well in the wet. Mechanical ones need the pads dialed in now and then.
- + Cassette gearing: Easy to swap for a wider range or a new drivetrain later.
- + 1x gearing: One front ring: simple shifting and less to adjust.
- + Thru-axles: Stiff, and the wheels line up the same way every time.
- + Light (about 22 lb): Quicker to accelerate and easy to carry.
- + Rack mounts: Carry a rack and bags for commuting, groceries or touring.
- + Tubeless-ready wheels: Run lower pressure with fewer flats.
Where to buy: Maker's page
No paid placements: the order follows price, never a store or brand. Sizes come from each maker's chart. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.