Gravel bikes are trending in 2020?!
Hello, this is ICAN.
"What road bike do you recommend for 2020?" "I want a bike for commuting!" Today, we're here to answer these questions. To get straight to the point, the bicycle trending in 2020 is the gravel road bike! Gravel road bikes can be more convenient than road bikes depending on how you use them.
What is a gravel road bike?
Firstly, "gravel" refers to small stones. So, a gravel road bike is a bicycle that can ride on gravel roads. For this reason, gravel road bikes have a sturdy frame and thicker tires than road bikes. By the way, there are two types of road bikes: "gravel road bikes" and "cyclocross bikes," which are often confused. Even manufacturers selling bicycles sometimes don't know which is which... This is why we also tend to confuse cyclocross and gravel road bikes.
Characteristics of Gravel Road Bikes and Cyclocross Bikes
Cyclocross bikes typically use 33mm wide tires and 700c wheels. In contrast, gravel road bikes use tires ranging from 30c to 50c. This alone shows a significant difference between the two. Also, while cyclocross bikes are known for their "lightness," gravel road bikes are known for their "vibration absorption." This means gravel road bikes are suitable for long-distance cycling, while cyclocross bikes seem suitable for both short and long distances.
Why Gravel Road Bikes are Trending Worldwide
So why are gravel road bikes trending worldwide? It's because they are bikes that don't limit where you can ride. As explained earlier, gravel road bikes can ride on gravel roads. It's no exaggeration to say that these bikes can be ridden almost anywhere. Hence, the reason they've become globally popular is precisely this freedom of riding location. Additionally, the tread of gravel road bikes is designed for easy riding off-road! *Tread = the part that touches the road surface
Gravel Road Bikes are also Suitable for Travel
Another reason for the popularity of gravel road bikes is that they are ideal for travel and camping. Gravel road bikes have "eyelets," which allow you to attach mudguards and bags. This means gravel road bikes can be ridden in various places and are perfect for travel. I think they would be great bikes for frequent cyclists.
Uses for Gravel Road Bikes
Gravel road bikes use disc brakes, allowing you to ride safely in the rain and on muddy surfaces. Also, with their thick tires, there's no need to worry about slipping. This makes them suitable for commuting and short-distance cycling. Moreover, you can easily transform a gravel road bike into a road bike by changing its parts! Gravel road bikes are good not only for commuting but also for cycling.
How about a gravel road bike for "long rides"?
However, thinking of gravel road bikes solely for long rides might be a bit narrow-minded. The main advantages of riding a gravel road bike include high stability due to thicker tires, a comfortable ride, and a less "serious" appearance. This is for those who want to cycle but don't want to be perceived as hardcore cyclists. For such reasons, riding a gravel road bike is perfectly fine, I think. Now, finally, let me introduce a recommended frame. This frame is more for cyclocross.
【New Release】A9 Frame・For Road Bikes & Cyclocross
This model is designed to let you cycle at speeds beyond your imagination. Furthermore, the A9 frame features disc brakes and combines Toray T700 and T800 carbon fiber cross. This allows for reduced weight while smoothly moving through the air! It's so light that you won't even worry about air resistance! We also designed it to efficiently transfer pedaling power to the road. You'll definitely feel like "this is a completely different kind of frame!"
Summary
The trending bicycle in 2020 is the gravel road bike. Gravel road bikes are suitable for commuting and short-distance rides, making them highly recommended for those purchasing their first road bike. Please give them a try!


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