Best Gravel Bikes Under $500 & $1500

These days biking has become quite a trend as it is a remarkable way to commute whether daily or on your weekend excursions and to include a fitness regime in them as well. A gravel bike is all anyone wants these days because it is incredibly versatile considering they can be ridden anywhere and everywhere.

Gravel bikes usually come with features that include those perfect for all your adventures such as disc brakes, a structure that adapts itself to what you require according to the terrain you’re riding the bike on.

Gravel bikes have been built to last more than road bikes. They are also faster and gain velocity quicker than mountain bikes.

These both features are the reason why they are cyclists prefer them more when using a bike for off-road biking. Riding on uneven and rougher trails can be dangerous if you’re riding a road bike and you can cause harm to yourself as well as your bike. This is mainly because it doesn’t come with all the supporting features one requires when riding on such terrains.

Thus a combination of a road bike and a cyclocross bike is perfect in fulfilling your daily requirements on your commute as well as on your adventures. It will also keep you safe and comfortable as most of these bikes have shock-absorbing abilities.

TOMMASO SENTIERO SHIMANO TOURNEY ADVENTURE BIKE WITH DISC BRAKES

The Tommaso Sentiero is a wonderful bike that can be used for your daily work commutes along with any adventurous off-roading. It comes equipped with a great many features which will help you in achieving speed with comfortability. The bike also comes with a lifetime warranty.

FRAME AND SADDLE

The frame of the Shimano Tourney Adventure Bike is made using a high-quality aluminum which is light in weight and weighs about 24 lbs. The aluminum is sturdy as well as durable. The frame is shock absorbent and even when riding on uneven trails. It can even undergo a great amount of stress and strain and still perform well the next day.

The aluminum frame comes with an SST steel fork which only increases the durability of the bike and can be combined with fenders as well as racks. The saddle that is featured on the Tommaso has been padded to provide the rider with support as well as comfort on all sorts of surfaces. It can hold up under your weight.

BRAKES

To offer maximum stopping power, this particular gravel bike features Tektro disc brakes. Tektro is a big name in the bike industry which is why it is incredibly reliable when it comes to high performance. They can be trusted to provide the rider with control over the bike in all kinds of weather whether that may be dry or wet. The triple crankset that works together with the 8-speed cassette can climb steep slopes without the rider having to provide all their strength.

DRIVETRAIN

The drivetrain that comes equipped on the Tommaso is a combination of various components. This includes shifters, derailleurs as well as gears. These work together and ensure that it is easier for you to transition in between different shifts and gears. This is required to provide a smooth and comfortable ride and what most bike riders want to have in the bike they use.

ASSEMBLY

The assembly of the bike requires professional help and advice so it’s better to get it from a local bike shop. Also, the warranty for the bike is only applicable when it has been professionally assembled.

Pros

• This bike has a lifetime warranty specifically for its frame and fork
• It is lightweight so you do not have to worry about it being hard to handle
• Everything of the bike from the frame to the rims is durable for every different type of terrain you want to ride it on
•  The Tommaso Sentiero Shimano Tourney Adventure Bike has Tektro Lyra disc brakes that help in stopping the bike whenever necessary
• It has great cranksets and 3×7 Shimano Tourney gearing sets on the market as well

Cons

• It is not easy to assemble so you will need professional help

Verdict:

The Tommaso Sentiero Shimano Tourney Adventure Bike with Disc Brakes is a great investment for the money you put into buying it. It can be used on a variety of surfaces whether rough or smooth and all sorts of weather whether that may be wet or dry. The components that the bike comes equipped with are all that one requires in their gravel bikes. It is also quite affordable and the lifetime warranty is just the cherry on top of the already great deal you’re getting with this particular gravel bike.

TAKARA SHIRO ADVENTURE BIKE 700C

The Takara Shiro Adventure Bike 700C comes next on our list for the best gravel bikes under $500. The bike is affordable and is wonderful for those with a set budget as the bike comes with all the features that are usually found in a high-end bike at an unbelievable price tag.

FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

The Takara Shiro is one of the best gravel bikes you will find out there in the market. It can be ridden on any kind of terrain, rough as well as smooth and still provide you with comfort and support. The bike is made using steel which is high tensile thus giving it great durability.

The tires that it comes equipped with are wide and have greater volume thus providing the bike with a lot of traction along with a higher amount of grip on the road. The tires also feature 36 spoke double-wall alloy rims which are shock absorbent. These will help the rider achieve comfortability when riding on potholes, gravel, and cobblestones.

The bike also features a Shimano drivetrain which works along with a cable activated disc brake which offers the rider control over the bike. They also help provide greater stopping power and easy maneuvering in between different gears and shifts. The bike can be used by bike riders with a height from 5 feet and 5 inches to 6 feet and 2 inches tall. This particular gravel bike is heavier than others found on this list.

Pros

• Its frame and rims are durable so you can ride the bike on gravel roads as well without any hesitation
• It is quite affordable when compared to its components and specifications
• The Takara Shiro Adventure Bike 700c has mechanical disc brakes on its front and rear as well in case of immediate need of braking.

Cons

• This bike has a height limitation and cannot be driven by people less than 5 feet 5 inches or people taller than 6 feet 2 inches

VERDICT

The Takara Shiro Adventure Bike is a great buy for buyers who are looking for bikes within a set budget. The bike comes with a great many features which are only available in bikes with a higher price tag. The bike can be used for a variety of purposes which includes for your daily commute or your off-road adventures as well as a ride to a nearby grocery shop.

DIAMONDBACK BICYCLES HAANJO 1

The Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 1 is the next bike that we are going to introduce you to on the best gravel bikes under $500. The Diamondback is a remarkable bike that can be ridden on a variety of surfaces and would never make the rider feel uncomfortable. The bike is a wonderful choice for those riders that want to include a fitness regime into their routine as well as their adventures.

FRAME AND HANDLEBARS

The frame of the bike is strong and durable. It is made using high-quality material which is set to last you a long while. It is also able to undergo all sorts of stress and strain and come out unharmed. Thus it is perfect to be ridden even on rough surfaces along with paved ones.

The handlebars that this particular bike comes equipped with are flat bars. This helps the rider sit in an upright position during the ride. An upright position helps reduce any sort of stress over the back or neck of the rider.

GEARS, SHIFTERS, AND DERAILLEURS

The Diamondback Haanjo 1 is a mountain groupset. It comes with a single chainring which helps in minimizing any mechanical problems one might face while riding this particular gravel bike. They also help in easy shifting between gears and speeds. If there was no front derailleur attached on the bike, it would be harder in transitioning between these gears. 

Pros

• The Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 1 is cheap if you compare its price and its advantages
• It has great braking and its power is quite a lot as well. The components are available on the market too
• The bike’s 6061 T6 frame is durable with being lightweight too because it is crafted well
• It tires will not stop you from riding this bike in rough terrain or a different surface

Cons:

• The handlebars of this bike will have to be removed after a bit use

Verdict:

The Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 1 is a great choice for bike riders who are looking for a bike that they can ride on paved city roads as well as rough mountain roads. The bike comes with a derailing system which will provide the rider with greater control and handle over it. The bike is well worth the investment which is why we have included it on our list.

RETROSPEC AMOK V3 8 SPEED URBAN GRAVEL COMMUTER BIKE

The Retrospec Amok V3 comes next on our list for the best gravel bikes under $500. The bike is affordable and comes with a great many features which many riders prefer to have in their bikes. It can be used in all sorts of terrains with ease and is quite affordable as well.

FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

The Retrospec urban gravel commuter bike has a frame made using high quality 6061 aluminum alloy which is light in weight. This is one of the lightest bikes included in our list. The fork is made using high tensile steel and is a threadless fork. This makes it durable and sturdy and so do the double-walled alloy rims.

The Shimano Rapid Fire Thumb Shifter works along with the Shimano Acera Derailleur to help in easy transition between gears and speeds. The gear system also includes low profile BMX pedals which help in riding on rough as well as smooth surfaces. They also provide the rider with maximum stopping power when they work along with the Tektro mechanical disc brakes. The bike also comes with a warranty which is applicable when the bike is assembled by professionals.

The bike has been structured in such a manner that it provides the bike with agility and speed even on rough roads. The tires equipped on the bike are the 700 x 40c Innova tires which offer greater grip on the tires as they are wide. The BMX pedals can hold up under aggressive pedaling and will not falter in between your rides. 

Pros

• The 6061 aluminum alloy frame is a durable, yet lightweight foundation upon which the bike is built.
• The bike has double-wall rims that will keep the wheels safe even on rough surfaces from any severe damage
• You will not have to worry about the gear or shifting system because they work considerably great
• It features a durable 6061 frame which is lightweight at the same time

Cons

• Its seat will have to be changed soon
  

Verdict

The Retrospec Amok V3 8 speed Urban Gravel Commuter bike is a great buy for bike riders who are looking to include a fitness regime into their routines. The bike is perfect for any sort of surface and provides the rider with remarkable performance in any kind of weather. The bike also comes with a low price tag which makes it quite affordable. The features included in the Retrospec are a great steal at this price tag.

BEST GRAVEL BIKES UNDER $1500

When looking for the best gravel bikes under $1500, we have got you sorted out. We have looked and searched wide and through many bikes online as well as in the market to find the best bikes for you in under $1500.

TOMMASO ILLIMITATE TIAGRA GRAVEL ADVENTURE BIKE

The Tommaso company has been making bikes since the early 80s and has made bikes with all sorts of price tags. The features included on this bike are ones you usually find on bikes with a higher-end price. The Tommaso Illimitate Tiagra Gravel Adventure Bike comes with features that will give you maximum performance.

FRAME

The frame of the bike is made using aluminum which is of high quality. The frame has been made to be compatible with disc brakes with tubing that makes the ride comfortable and smooth no matter how long you have been using it. The rear of the frame is heavy-duty and the front of it is versatile which makes it easy to use on all sorts of terrains. The vibration dampening carbon fork which has a sleek internal front disc brake which makes the bike compatible for all of your adventures.

DRIVETRAIN

The Tommaso bike comes equipped with a full Shimano Tiagra drivetrain. The drivetrain provides easy shifting between gears and speeds. This makes it a remarkable bike to ride on all sorts of terrains.

BRAKES

The Tommaso disc brakes featured on this particular gravel bike work well on paved roads, in the dirt as well as on gravel. They can also be used to tread on wet or dry surfaces. The extra stopping power provided by the brakes is needed for your off-road adventures to offer you control and handle over the bike.

WHEELSET

The Tommaso company’s entire line of bikes just like this bike comes equipped with Tommaso Corse D rims which feature 32 strong spokes. The Kenda Kwick road tires help the rider achieve greater grip over the road. 

Pros

• The frame of the bike is made using high-quality material
• The performance provided by the bike is powerful
• The Tommaso can be rode on all sorts of terrains
• The bike is incredibly versatile

Cons

• The bike has to be assembled professionally for the warranty to be applied
  There is a little slippage on gravel and sandy surfaces

Verdict

The Tommaso Illimitate is a great buy for buyers looking for a bike which is remarkable in its features as well as its price range. This particular gravel adventure bike is all one has been looking for on their bike. The features included on this bike are unlike those found on most bikes in the market.

 

RALEIGH BIKES WILLARD 2 GRAVEL ADVENTURE ROAD BIKE

The Raleigh Bikes Willard 2 Gravel Adventure Road Bike is included in the bikes with a lower price tag from the Raleigh company but even with this, the bike is remarkably durable. The bike also comes with a strong steel frame along with a carbon fork which is built to last and helps in absorbing shocks on rough roads.

DESIGN

The Willard 2 Gravel Bike has a steerer with an alloy tapering as well as a steel frame and a carbon fork. The bike is also equipped with a wonderful gear system that is easy to replace and clean along with brakes which provide the ride more stability and better handling of the bike.

PERFORMANCE

The bike has a design that helps the rider achieve maximum performance. The tires of the bike help in greater traction on all types of terrains. The mechanical disc brakes work well in wet as well as dry conditions. Even when riding downhill or uphill the bike performs well.

DURABILITY

The Raleigh Bikes Willard 2 is a sturdy bike with a design unlike any other using material which is of great quality. Even with all this, the bike is still incredibly affordable. The carbon fork and the steel frame helps ensure the bike’s durability. With a build like this, the bike can undergo all sorts of strain without being damaged.

VALUE

This particular bike is a great value for the money you put into it considering the material used to make it is high quality. When all the features are put together, the durability of the bike only increases. 

Pros

• The bike comes will a low price tag
• The bike will provide a smooth ride and will remain stable in all types of trails
• It comes with a great many features
• The bike is durable

Cons

• The handlebars will get uncomfortable over time
  

Verdict

The only con that we have come across is that it is heavier than other bikes. If you are comfortable with handling such bikes, then this is the one you should go for. Many positives outweigh the negatives of the bike. 

DIAMONDBACK BICYCLES HAANJO 3 GRAVEL ADVENTURE BIKE

The Diamondback’s newest model is the Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 3 Gravel Adventure Bike which is next on our list for the best gravel bike under $1500.

The bike is durable, light in weight and comes with a lot of other incredible features. The aluminum alloy frame featured on the bike helps enhance its durability. The lightweight features help in its agility and easy maneuvering. Also included on the bike are tires that offer the rider with comfortability and a greater grip on the road.

DESIGN

The Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 3 Gravel Adventure Bike has a frame made out of aluminum alloy along with a hydroformed tube. The design of the bike helps in enhancing the sturdiness of the bike. The rider can increase the bike up to 16 speeds which you can adjust even when riding the bike. Due to the disc brakes featured on the bike, the rider is provided with stopping power.

PERFORMANCE

The bike will help you achieve a comfortable ride even when riding downhill or uphill. The Diamondback doesn’t compromise on the comfort of the bike even when you’re riding the bike on rough terrains. The tires and the wheelset equipped on the bike help the rider with control over the bike in all weather. The brakes also help in the control.

DURABILITY

The Diamondback company is a big name in the bike market and all of its products are incredibly durable. The Haanjo 3 Gravel Adventure Bike is no exception to their high quality. The aluminum alloy frame offers the rider confidence as the bike is given strength along with its lightweight features. Thus the bike can undergo a lot of strain.

VALUE

The bike comes with a price tag that is on the lower range making it a great decision for those who are looking for a bike in a set budget. The bike is affordable as well as durable. The bike will last you a long while before you need to replace any components. 

 Pros

• The Diamondback is the lightest in weight compared to other bikes included in this list
• The particular gravel bike has a low price range
• The adventure is attractive and quite stylish
• The bike will last you a long while

Cons

• The seat will have to be changed after some use

Verdict:

The Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 3 Gravel Adventure Bike is a great steal. It comes with features that are usually found in higher-end bikes but comes with a much lower price tag. It can be used in all kinds of weather as well as all types of trails.

 

RETROSPECT BICYCLES AMOK V2 GRAVEL BIKES

Next on our list for the best gravel bikes under $1500 is the Retrospec Bicycles Amok V2 Gravel Bikes. If you are looking for a bike that has a great many technical features along with agility, this bike is the one for you. Along with its agility, the bike can be ridden all sorts of terrains and trails regardless of the type of weather.

DESIGN

The Retrospec bike has a frame made using Chromoly which makes the bikes strong as well as durable. The drop bars featured on the bike helps make the ride more comfortable and help in easily achieving great speeds.

This particular gravel bike can provide you with 16 speeds and comes with a drivetrain that is easy to adjust and helps in easy shifting between gears and speeds. The braking system featured on the bike helps in gaining control and handle over the bike. The tires have been designed in such a manner so that you can ride the bike anywhere.

PERFORMANCE

The Retrospec is a bike that will help you achieve maximum performance as well as great speeds. The aerodynamic design of the bike will help in the agility of the bike. The tire system of the bike has been designed so that it can easily tackle any terrain or weather. It can also be ridden on steep trails with complete ease.

DURABILITY

The Amok V2 Gravel Bike is equipped with a Chromoly frame which is sturdy and helps in handle over the bike and in ensuring it lasts a long while even when taking on all sorts of abuse.

VALUE

The bike comes with a low price tag and has a great many features only available in those bikes on the higher end of the price range. 

Pros

• The frame of the bike is made using a high-quality material
• The bike comes at an affordable price tag
• The bike is agile and quickly picks up speed
• The Amok is durable and sturdy

Cons

• The saddle of the bike can be upgraded to provide a more comfortable ride

Verdict

The Retrospec Bicycles Amok V2 Gravel Bikes includes many components made using high-quality material. This is a budget-friendly bike that can be used by professionals as well as beginners. It is a great investment for the money you put into buying it. The Amok V2 will not disappoint you.

MONGOOSE SELOUS SPORTS GRAVEL BIKE 

The Mongoose Selous Sports Gravel Bike is the last bike we are going to introduce you to on our list for the best gravel bikes under $1500. The bike is incredibly versatile The bike performs remarkably on gravel as well as paved roads. It is a great bike which helps in attaining fitness. With a budget like this, this particular bike is a great investment.

DESIGN

The Mongoose Selous Sports Gravel Bike has been designed using a sturdy alloy frame and an alloy fork. These altogether enhance the durability of the bike and help the bike absorb shocks on rough terrains to provide the rider with comfortability and stability. This will also help the rider achieve greater control and handle over the bike.

PERFORMANCE

The bike has been designed in such a manner to help the rider achieve maximum performance. This particular bike will help in having greater stability when out riding the bike. The tires the bike is equipped with help the bike in having a grip over the road in wet as well as dry weather.

DURABILITY

The Mongoose gravel bike features a frame made out of aluminum alloy which helps in providing durability. The fork which is found included on the bike helps in shock absorption thus making your ride more comfortable as well as smoother.

VALUE

The bike along with its many features comes at an affordable price. With the durable material used on the bike, you get a great deal.

Pros

• The bike comes at an affordable price tag
• The bike is durable
• The Mongoose will last you a long while
• The ride provided by this particular gravel bike is smooth and comfortable

Cons

• The seat of the bike will have to be replaced as it can get uncomfortable over time

VERDICT

The Mongoose Selous Sports Gravel Bike will be a great decision for any sort of bike rider. The bike is remarkable on all sorts of surfaces and weathers and is a great investment for most riders. 

FINAL THOUGHTS ABOUT THE GRAVEL BIKE

A gravel bike is the best hybrid bike out there. It offers you a lot of flexibility in not only choices, and features but also in usage. You can use it for just about anything and it will not disappoint. This is something that we can guarantee after poring through thousands of bikes for the reviews.

Note: If you are looking for an in-depth review of different bikes, then don’t forget to hit this page.