Electric Gravel Bike

What is a Gravel electric bike

And electric gravel bike is a hybrid bike, designed to ride equally well on roads as on dirt paths, gravel, or forest trails. Halfway between a electric road bike and one Electric mountain bike, it is distinguished by:

• A sturdy yet lightweight frame, often made of aluminum or carbon
• Tires wider than those of a road bike for more grip and comfort
• A curved handlebar ("drop bar" type) for a dynamic and versatile riding position
• A bottom bracket motor or rear wheel for smooth and natural assistance

This is the ideal bike for cyclists who want to escape the city without changing their ride. With electric assistance, climbs become easier and long distances more accessible.

The advantages of an electric gravel bike

Choosing a gravel electric bike means opting for a model that is both versatile and high-performing. These powerful electric bikes appeal to cyclists seeking freedom, as they are capable of riding both on the road and on more irregular paths. Thanks to their sporty design and electric assistance, they allow covering long distances while limiting effort. Perfect for bikepacking, nature hikes, or mixed routes, gravel electric bikes offer several advantages:  

#1 Explore all terrains thanks to the electric gravel bike

Roads, trails, forest paths, or gravel tracks: nothing scares it! Ideal for weekend rides as well as daily commutes. 

#2 Comfort and performance on every ride

Wide tires to absorb terrain irregularities, a comfortable riding position even on long distances, and a powerful engine for natural assistance on climbs or against the wind.

#3 Versatility of the electric gravel bike

Can be used both for commuting to work and for going on adventures, you can add racks, saddlebags, fenders... One bike for all your uses, all year round after all! 

How to make the right choice of Gravel electric bike?

To choose your gravel electric bike well, start by defining your main use. Will you use it in an urban environment, for occasional leisure, or for long-distance trips? Also assess the average distance you plan to cover and the types of terrain you will ride on most often (road, gravel, mixed paths...).

Next, it is essential to choose the right engine and the appropriate battery. A electric bike crank motor is recommended for smoother and more responsive assistance, especially on varied routes. A power of 250W is ideal for versatile use. On the battery side, choose a range between 60 and 120 km, depending on your usage profile.

Also pay particular attention to the comfort and geometry of the frame. It must be adapted to your height and body shape. Depending on your practice, you can choose a drop bar handlebar (for a more sporty position) or a flat one (for more comfort). A comfortable seat post, suspension, or reinforced tires will improve your experience on long rides.

Finally, consider the equipment compatible with the bike. Some models allow you to add mudguards, a luggage rack, or even LED lights. Also check the type of transmission (single chainring or double chainring) according to your routes, and favor disc brakes, which are more reliable, even on wet terrain.

How much does a Gravel electric bike cost?

The price of an electric gravel bike varies depending on the components, the quality of the frame, the motor, the battery, and the accessories. Here are some indicative price ranges:

• Entry-level: €1,500 to €2,000 → perfect for beginners or recreational use
  
  

• Mid-range: €2,000 to €3,500 → decent battery life, quality materials, optimized comfort
  
  

• High-end: €3,500 and up → high-end components, carbon frame, precise transmission, long-lasting battery

The choice of model will depend on your specific needs, whether it is for mountain hiking, city walks, or sports use.

Ranking of the best Gravel electric bike models

1. Garrett Miller Z - Comfortable
2. Garrett Miller X - Simplicity and efficiency 
3. Superior IXR : Ultra Light and Dynamic
4. Semi-Rigid Mountain Bike Superior EXC: Comfortable and high-performance

Expert tips for using Gravel electric bikes

To get the most out of your electric gravel bike:

• Anticipate your routes and manage your level of assistance well
• Adjust tire pressure according to the terrain: slightly lower on trails for more comfort
• Clean your bike after each ride on dusty or muddy terrain

Maintenance tips for Gravel electric bikes

Gravel electric bikes are designed to tackle varied and sometimes demanding terrains. But to maintain their performance over time, regular maintenance is essential. At Weebot, we offer you a complete range of cleaning products to optimize the longevity and reliability of your electric gravel bike, while ensuring your safety on every ride.

#1 Tire pressure of a gravel electric bike

The ideal pressure is generally between 2.5 and 4 bars, depending on the terrain and the model. On trails, a lower pressure (around 2.5 to 3 bars) offers more comfort and grip, while a higher pressure is ideal on the road for better efficiency.

• Always check the markings on the sidewall of the tire or inner tube. • Proper pressure reduces the risk of punctures and improves road handling.

#2 Lubrication of the chain of your electric gravel bike

The chain must be lubricated every two weeks with a suitable lubricant, especially if you ride on dusty or wet paths.

• In case of rain or riding on muddy terrain, lubricate after each ride. • Use a specific lubricant for mixed or muddy conditions depending on the season.

#3 Checking the screws of your electric gravel bike

An electric gravel bike may vibrate more on rough terrain, hence the importance of regularly checking the screws.

• Check the tightening of the handlebar screws, seat post, motor, and wheels. • Apply a bit of threadlocker on screws that tend to loosen.

#4 Derailleur Adjustment

With the jolts of the roads, the derailleur adjustment can shift.

• Regularly check the cable tension. • Lubricate the cable every 6 months to maintain smooth gear shifting.

#5 Purge and brake pads

Disc brakes, often hydraulic on a gravel bike, require special attention.

• Check the wear of the brake pads every 500 to 1000 km. • Bleed the brake system if you feel a loss of efficiency or if the lever travel is too long.

Don't forget to do a full service every 1,000 km or at least twice a year, especially if you often ride on mixed terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gravel Electric Bikes

#1 Are electric gravel bikes suitable for all types of terrain?

Yes, gravel electric bikes are designed to be versatile, making them suitable for a wide variety of terrains. Whether you are riding on paved roads, gravel paths, or forest trails, their suspension system and frame geometry allow you to tackle different types of surfaces comfortably. However, for truly technical terrains or very steep slopes, it is recommended to choose a model with a more powerful motor and a larger capacity battery.

#2 What is the range of a gravel electric bike?

The range of a gravel electric bike depends on several factors: the battery capacity, the rider's weight, the type of terrain, and the chosen assistance mode. On average, you can travel between 60 to 120 km per charge, which is more than enough for long rides or multi-hour excursions. If you plan to ride long distances with significant climbs, opt for a model with a 500 Wh battery or more.

3. Are gravel electric bikes heavy?

Yes, compared to traditional road bikes, electric gravel bikes are heavier. This is due to the presence of the battery and motor, which add about 3 to 6 kg to the total weight. However, the design of gravel bikes allows for good handling and a balanced weight distribution so as not to make the bike too difficult to control, even on varied terrains.

4. Can I use a gravel electric bike for daily trips in the city?

Absolutely! The electric gravel bike is ideal for daily city commutes thanks to its versatility. You can use it both for urban travel and for nature outings on the weekend. It is particularly useful if you need to go through unpaved paths or areas that are difficult to access by car. Thanks to its assist motor, you can easily climb hills and tackle urban obstacles without much effort.