8 Of The Best Steel Gravel Bikes: Why They Are Still a Great Choice in 2024? 

A steel gravel bike might be a perfect choice if you love adventure and seek the thrill of exploring off-road paths. Their durable frames and classic look offer a unique ride quality due to their natural vibration-absorbing properties, resulting in a smoother experience on rugged terrains.

Steel gravel bikes are versatile and robust for off-road adventures. They provide ample tire clearance for different surfaces and a balance between strength and compliance. They may be heavier but can truly go the distance.

The choice of steel gravel bikes in 2024 reflects a range of needs, from the Salsa Fargo’s rugged utility to the elegance of the CURVE Kevin of Steel Ninja Mermaid. Whether you desire a bike like the Kona Rove, known for its trusty all-around performance, or the precision and touring capabilities of the Fairlight Secan 2.5, there’s a steel steed out there tailored to your wandering spirit. 

8 of the Best Steel Gravel Bikes in 2024

Looking for a durable steel gravel bike that can handle your adventurous spirit in 2024? Check out the Salsa Fargo for bikepacking and the Bombtrack Hook Ext for long-distance riding. Both bikes are versatile, durable, and perfect for off-road journeys.

When it comes to steel gravel bikes, brand choice is essential. All-City offers style and substance, Breezer Doppler Team boasts exceptional performance, and Fairlight Secan 2.5 is known for its refined design and smooth ride.

Now, you’re keen on shaking things up a bit. In that case, you may find interest in the advantageous design of flat bar gravel bikes, offering a unique and comfortable riding position.

Curious about what each model has to offer for your off-road adventures? Consider factors like weight, handling, and the type of steel used when choosing.

1. Salsa Fargo

Introducing the Salsa Fargo, a versatile bike that can easily handle city streets, gravel roads, and rough trails. Its triple-butted, seamless CroMoly steel frame ensures durability and comfort even on bumpy terrain.

Specs:

• Frame Material: Resilient steel, perfect for soaking up road vibrations.
• Fork: Suspension-corrected, offering a smooth ride without excess bounce.
• Drivetrain: SRAM Apex 1×11, keeping shifting sharp and maintenance low.
• Brakes: Reliable mechanical disc brakes – because stopping power matters.
• Wheels and Tires: WTB ST i25 TCS wheels, paired with Maxxis Ikon 29 x 2.6″ tires. Yes, they’re as tough as they sound.

The Salsa Fargo is a highly versatile bicycle that can effortlessly tackle daily commutes as well as off-road adventures with ease. It’s a great choice for those seeking a sturdy and reliable bike that can handle any terrain. It’s a Swiss-army knife on two wheels, ready to adapt to any riding style. You can find all the nitty-gritty details on the Salsa Cycles website. 

2. Pipedream Cycles A.L.I.C.E.

Introducing the Pipedream Cycles A.L.I.C.E. – a steel gravel bike perfect for adventurous rides. This bike can handle any terrain, from gravel to urban obstacle courses, and transforms your commute into a playful ride. 

Specs:

• Frame Build: Enjoy the classic resilience of a Reynolds 725 steel frame. Robust yet responsive, it’s built to last.
• Fork: The A.L.I.C.E. boasts a rigid carbon fork, dampening vibrations while maintaining a light and elegant front end.
• Drive Train: Shimano GRX 1×11, robust and ready for diverse terrains.
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes offer consistent and responsive stopping power.
• Wheels & Tires: Hunt Adventure Sport wheels paired with WTB Riddler 700 x 45c tires — a combo that grips and rips through gravel and dirt.

Discover more at Pipedream Cycles and become the storyteller of your own adventures.

3. All-City Gorilla Monsoon GRX

Check out the All-City Gorilla Monsoon GRX – a tough and stylish bike that can easily handle gravel, daily commutes, and weekend tours, thanks to its 612 Select steel frame.

Specs:

• Drivetrain: Fancy a seamless shift? The Shimano GRX 2×11 gears will keep you cruising with precision, no matter the terrain.
• Braking Power: Safety first! The hydraulic disc brakes offer stopping power that you can depend on, rain or shine.
• Rolling Stock: Geared up with WTB ST i23 TCS wheels and WTB Nano 27.5 x 2.1″ tires, the wheelset is designed to grant you that “roll-over-anything” confidence on varied surfaces.

Whether you’re racing down gravel paths, loaded up for a tour, or zipping through city streets, this bike is eager to be your reliable steel companion. It’s versatile enough for diverse road riding conditions, from that lovely crunch of gravel beneath your tires to the welcoming pavement smoothness.

Ready to meet your do-it-all ride? Swing by the All-City Cycles and start planning your next road, gravel, or trail adventure with the Gorilla Monsoon GRX!

4. Bombtrack Hook Ext

Introducing the Bombtrack Hook Ext – a fun and unique gravel bike ready for adventure. Its steel frame and carbon fork with triple cage mounts make it the perfect companion for those who love to explore the less traveled road.

Specs:

• Frame: Robust Columbus Cromor steel
• Fork: Carbon with triple cage mounts
• Drivetrain: Smooth SRAM Rival 1×11
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc for reliable stopping power
• Wheels and Tires: WTB ST i21 TCS with grippy WTB Byway 650b x 47c

The Hook Ext bike is versatile for various terrains. It has hydraulic disc brakes and suitable gearing for uphill climbs. It also has multiple mounts for gear and internal dropper post provisions for bounce.

So, your Hook Ext is ready whether you’re up for long-distance riding, touring, or just exploring. With the ability to tackle gravel, dirt, and pavement, it aims to push the boundaries of where a gravel bike can go.

Sounds like a match? Dive deeper and check out the Bombtrack Hook Ext on their official website. 

5. CURVE Kevin of Steel Ninja Mermaid

Have you seen the CURVE Kevin of Steel Ninja Mermaid bike? It’s a striking steel gravel bike. 

Specs:

• Custom steel frame: durable, yet has that classic, timeless vibe
• Ninja Mermaid colourway: catches the eye like a chameleon shifting in the sun.
• Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 2×11 – smooth and reliable for shifting through gears.
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes are an excellent choice for reliable and powerful braking. They offer superior stopping power, especially in unfavorable weather conditions. The brakes are easy to operate and provide greater control and confidence on the road.
• Wheels: Curve G4T wheels paired with Panaracer Gravel King SK 700 x 43c tires – a match made in gravel heaven.
• Drop bars plus a carbon fork with rack and fender mounts scream versatility – take on a race, go touring, commute, or just head out for an adventure on mixed terrains.

Whether racing, touring, or commuting, this bike promises to be your steadfast companion. Check out the Curve Cycling website and see this beauty for yourself.

6. Kona Rove

The Kona Rove is a versatile bike that handles city streets and gravel paths. Its durable butted chromoly steel frame and steel fork with rack and fender mounts make it comfortable and convenient for longer trips.

Specs:

• Drivetrain: Shimano Claris 2×8
• Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power
• Wheels & Tires: WTB SX19 wheels paired with WTB Riddler Comp 700 x 37c tires for improved grip and stability on various surfaces.

The Rove covers you whether you’re gearing up for a gravel race, plotting a touring route, or simply commuting. It’s made to handle the roads less traveled—gravel, dirt, and pavement are all within its wheelhouse.

Take a peek at Kona’s website to see it for yourself. It’s not just a bike; it’s a trusty steed for all your two-wheeled adventures. So, are you ready to rove?

7. Breezer Doppler Team

Let’s talk about the Breezer Doppler Team, a steel gravel bike built to conquer any terrain. It has a durable chromoly steel frame and fork, with rack and fender mounts for your adventure gear.

Specs:

• Frame & Fork: Chromoly steel; includes mounts for fenders and racks.
• Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 2×11-speed, offering a wide gear range and smooth shifting.
• Brakes: Reliable hydraulic disc brakes for controlled and responsive stopping power.
• Wheels & Tires: WTB ST i23 TCS wheels paired with WTB Horizon 650b x 47c tires for that comfy and grippy ride.

The Breezer Doppler Team is a versatile bike that performs exceptionally well on challenging surfaces. Whether commuting or embarking on an adventure, its blend of speed and comfort makes it an excellent choice.

Look at the Breezer Bikes website for details and find your perfect ride!

8. Fairlight Secan 2.5

Introducing the Fairlight Secan 2.5 – a versatile bike that effortlessly handles gravel, commutes, and countryside adventures. Wrapped in refined steel, it promises finesse and delivers on its promises. 

Specs:

• Frame: Reynolds 853 Steel
• Fork: Carbon with rack and fender mounts for extra utility
• Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 2×11—responsive and reliable on varied terrains
• Wheels & Tires: Hunt 4 Season Gravel Disc wheels paired with Grippy Panaracer Gravel King SK 700 x 43c tires

The Secan bike with hydraulic disc brakes offers excellent stopping power and a comfortable ride. Its steel frame has plenty of mounting points for adventurous mountain journeys.

Finally, for those aesthetically inclined, the Secan is a beauty. Its exceptional finish makes it stand out in a crowd, yet it doesn’t scream for attention—it humbly earns it.

Discover more at Fairlight Cycles.

Advantages of Steel Gravel Bikes

When eyeing a new gravel bike, steel might not be the first material that comes to mind. Still, it offers a unique combination of durability and comfort that stands out in an off-road setting.

Ride Quality and Comfort

For you, the rider, comfort is paramount, especially when tackling the mixed surfaces that gravel riding brings. The steel frame of a gravel bike excels in this area thanks to its natural flexibility, which acts like a cushion against bumps and vibrations. You’ll find that steel can absorb shock, which translates to a smoother ride over gravel, roots, and rocks.

• Natural shock absorption: Steel frames provide a naturally compliant ride without complex suspension systems.
• Reduced fatigue: Over long distances, the flex and give of steel can help minimize rider fatigue, keeping you relaxed in the saddle.

Durability and Strength

Imagine a bike that could last you a lifetime. That’s the kind of strength and resilience steel brings to the table. It’s known for being one of the most robust materials for bike frames.

• Heavy-duty use: With steel, you won’t shy away from heavy loads or rough routes; the frame tolerates the demands of adventurous off-roading.
• Long-term companion: Steel’s renowned longevity means your bike can endure the years without significant wear, even in harsh conditions.

Customization Options

One of the joys of a steel bike is the personal touch you can incorporate into your bike. Unlike mass-produced options, steel bikes offer a buffet of customization choices.

• Custom frame colors and designs: Fancy a unique paint job or a custom geometry tailored to your body? Steel frame makers often provide these personalizations.
• Frame customizations: From braze-ons for racks and fenders to eyelets for bottle cages, steel frames can fit your exact needs and riding style.

By choosing steel as your frame material, you’re embracing a unique blend of ride quality and long-lasting strength, along with a bike that truly reflects your style and needs. Whether you’re a seasoned gravel grinder or looking for a dependable ride to begin your off-road adventures, steel gravel bikes promise to deliver performance and personality in equal measure.

Weight Considerations

Steel gravel bikes are often considered heavier than aluminum or carbon fiber bikes. However, the grade of steel used and frame construction can make a big difference in weight. Choosing higher-quality, high-tensile steel and a sleek design can reduce weight without sacrificing strength. Additionally, carefully selecting components and accessories can help keep the overall weight down.

Let’s talk numbers:

• Steel vs. Carbon: The sturdy Salsa Fargo (steel) is about 12.5 kg, while Salsa Cutthroat (carbon) is trimmer at 10.9 kg.
• Steel vs. Aluminum: The robust Pipedream Cycles A.L.I.C.E. (steel) tips the scales at 10.8 kg, just shy of Pipedream Moxie (aluminum) at 11.2 kg.
• Steel & Carbon Mix: Consider the All-City Gorilla Monsoon GRX (steel) at a respectable 12.3 kg versus All-City Cosmic Stallion GRX (steel and carbon blend) at a svelte 10.4 kg.

What’s the takeaway? Steel gravel bikes can hang with the cool kids and are only sometimes heavier. Sometimes, the extra grams are a fair trade for comfort, durability, and the ability to take a beating from your gnarliest rides. And let’s not overlook style—nothing says “classic” quite like steel.

Technical Specifications

Ever wondered what makes steel gravel bikes tick? Let’s get technical and dive into the nuts and bolts that set these bikes apart, ensuring you get the best ride possible.

Frame Material:

• Steel: Renowned for its durability and comfort, steel frames boast great vibration-damping qualities.

Drivetrain Options:

• SRAM Apex & SRAM Rival 1: Select models might equip one of these. SRAM drivetrains offer robust performance, with the Apex being known for its affordability and Rival 1 for a simplified 1x setup.

Components:

• Durability: It’s not just about the frame. Other bike components are built to last, too. Isn’t it nice to not worry about constant repairs?
• Versatile Gravel Bike Design: Often, versatility is key. Your bike can tackle a quick commute or a long-distance off-road adventure.

Tire Clearance

Tire clearance is essential for gravel bikes as it affects the size of tires that can be fitted. More clearance means bigger tires with extra traction and comfort, but they can add weight and reduce aerodynamics. Less clearance means lighter tires for smoother roads but may limit tire size and increase the risk of flats.

So, how do you strike the perfect balance?

1. Match the clearance to your riding style. Want to feel each turn of the wheel? Go slim. Love to tackle terrain? Go big.
2. Ensure the clearance fits your bike frame and doesn’t clash with your fashion-forward fenders.
3. Got gadgets? Make sure there’s enough room for all those nifty accessories.

When it comes down to it, measuring is pretty straightforward:

• Grab a ruler and check the gap around the tire—bigger isn’t always better, but knowing your limits is good.
• If you need more space or want to snug things up, fiddle with tire sizes or tweak your frame setup.

Compatible Fenders

Fenders are useful accessories for gravel bikes because they keep mud and road spray away, increasing visibility, safety, and the lifespan of bike components. When considering fenders, match their size to your bike’s tire and rim width, ensure they fit snugly with mounts and eyelets, consider your riding conditions, choose durable and easy-to-install fenders, and keep tools handy.

Material Comparisons

Have you ever wondered how the material of your gravel bike’s frame influences your ride? Let’s break it down to the nitty-gritty—because nobody wants a rocky road when choosing their trusty two-wheeled steed.

Steel: The old-school cool. Steel frames ooze with that vintage vibe, but don’t let their classic look fool you—they’re tough as nails. While steel might make your bike weigh a bit more, with typical weights between 22 and 28.5 pounds, its durability and comfort are worth considering. Due to its natural flexibility, steel frames offer excellent vibration damping. And hey, a little workout never hurt anybody, right?

Carbon Fiber: This material is like the superhero of bike frames—lightweight and solid. However, these bikes don’t just help you zoom through the countryside; they can also dent your wallet. Sure, they’re typically the go-to for mid-range and high-end gravel bikes, but is the cost worth the difference in speed and performance for your needs?

Titanium: Here’s the elite contender. Titanium frames strike a perfect balance between strength and lightness. They won’t rust, and they have a natural springiness that makes your ride feel like floating on air. But, ‘titanic’ might also describe the price tag, so be prepared.

Aluminum: If you’re looking for something lighter than steel but more cost-effective than carbon or titanium, aluminum could be your match in cycling heaven. Often paired with a carbon fork to soften the ride, aluminum bikes offer a solid compromise.

Here’s a quick glance at the core features:

• Steel: Durable, great vibration-damping, heavier
• Carbon Fiber: Lightweight, high strength, pricey
• Titanium: High strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion-resistant, expensive
• Aluminum: Lighter than steel, cost-effective, slightly harsher ride

Steel vs Carbon

When choosing between a carbon or steel gravel bike, there are a few essential factors to consider. Carbon bikes are lighter and stiffer, which makes for better acceleration and a more efficient ride on smooth surfaces. However, this stiffness can also make for a harsher ride on bumpy roads. 

In contrast, steel bikes are heavier but are more resilient to uneven surfaces, providing a smoother ride. They are also easier to repair and can handle impacts better than carbon bikes. Additionally, steel bikes offer more customization options and are often more budget-friendly. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your riding style, preferences, and budget.

Steel vs Titanium

If you’re looking for a lightweight and responsive ride, titanium might be the way. It’s known for being lightweight and stiff, with frames that are 40% lighter than steel but just as strong. 

But if comfort is your priority, steel might be a better choice. It’s more flexible and can absorb vibrations on bumpy terrain better than titanium, making it an excellent option for long rides. 

If we compare the durability of titanium and steel, titanium is the clear winner. It offers superior rust resistance, is less prone to denting or scratching, and can endure harsh environmental conditions with ease.

If you want to customize your bike, steel is the better option. It’s easier to paint and weld than titanium, so you can make your bike more unique. 

Finally, keep your budget in mind. Titanium is more expensive than steel, so if you’re on a tight budget, steel might be a better choice. 

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