Gravel Bike Vs XC Bike

More types of bikes are available on the market than ever before, meaning everybody’s dream garage will contain a bike for every occasion, ranging from road, gravel, and mountain bikes. Of course, not everybody can afford a specialist bike for every ride, so some compromises must be made. One of the most significant decisions to make when choosing a new bike is choosing between two relatively similar bikes, which is confirmed when comparing and choosing between an XC bike or a Gravel Bike.

The choice between the two bikes, however, is quite simple - you just need to be honest about the type of terrain you ride most on, and then the right decision will be easy to reach. Having a bike that will struggle on the terrain you ride the most is fine. In this post, we look at the two types of bikes in closer detail and some of the points you should consider when choosing between the two.

What is a Gravel Bike?

It’s handy to think of a gravel bike as a road bike with drop handlebars and several other changes that make it easier to ride off the road whilst retaining on-road performance. Gravel Bikes have wide tyres, low gearing for steeper off-road ascents and a geometry focused on balance and stability for traversing rough terrain.

What is an XC Mountain Bike?

A cross-country mountain bike must tackle two different types of off-road terrain. It needs to be able to travel singletrack and handle technical obstacles whilst also being able to ride smooth paths and long distances.

XC MTB Vs Gravel Bike Design And Components

The biggest difference between the two bikes is that gravel bikes are not designed to be able to tackle technical terrain like an XC bike is. Both bikes are, however, designed for cycling long distances. Looking at the components and parts of these bikes highlights the differences.

Gravel bike handlebars provide a more aero position than XC mountain bike handlebars. This is good because XC handlebars need to provide the rider with maximum stability and control for tackling difficult terrain.

Gravel bikes also do not usually have suspension forks, although some gravel bikes are now fitted with short travel forks, providing 50mm of suspension travel. XC Mountain Bikes require between 80-120mm of suspension travel. There are also full-suspension XC mountain bikes available with rear suspension.

Gravel Bikes use lightweight 650b or 700c wheels, whereas XC bikes use 29-inch wheels. Gravel bike tyres are around 40mm wide, and XC mountain bike tyres are much wider. XC bikes are a couple of kgs heavier than gravel bikes because of suspension, and both bikes have disc brakes and can have dropper seat posts.

XC MTB Vs Gravel Bike Geometry

Gravel Bikes have a longer wheelbase than an XC mountain bike. An XC Mountain Bike is longer and lower, as well as slacker than a gravel bike.

Are Gravel Bikes OK for Cross Country?

Gravel Bikes are great for many cross-country conditions, so if your riding route encompasses gravel tracks, bridleways, forestry tracks, fire roads and roads, you will be fine.

When to buy an XC bike Vs Gravel bike

XC Mountain Bikes are ideal for those who want a lightweight mountain bike covering many miles, which is tough enough to handle trails and singletrack.

Final thoughts

If the riding you do is mainly smooth, choose a gravel bike! If you ride more challenging terrain, buy an XC mountain bike.