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Gravel Grinders

If you haven’t already heard, the latest cycling sensation is the rise of the “gravel grinders,” which Forbes refers to as “cycling’s hottest trend.” Thanks to some recent ingenuity and outside-the-box thinking, people have now found a way to combine the best aspects of a mountain bike and a road bike, combining them into one beautiful two-wheeled Frankenstein of engineering.

A lot of cyclists use their bikes to commute to and from location to location. One of the primary hassles for cyclists on public roads, however, is the presence of cars -- making it irritating and sometimes dangerous to ride on the road. Off-road cycling can be fun, but heavy mountain bikes don’t make it easy on your tired legs. If only there were a way to make a lighter mountain bike that could ride smoothly both on-road and off-road, right?

BAM! Baba Booey! Whatever your preferred exclamatory phrase is, gravel grinders are the answer to all of your sleepless nights spent visualizing the perfect mountain bike/road bike combo.

Gravel grinders utilize essentially the same frame as a road bike but have thicker, sturdier wheels and brakes that allow you to go off-road without flipping and ending up in a ditch. Basically, mountain bike wheels are attached to a road bike frame. Brakes are enhanced so that the gears continue to turn even when they’re coated in dirt and mud. This reduces the weight of the bike allowing you to go faster and conserve energy.

Gravel grinders are ideal for off-road races or for leisurely exploration of the wonders of nature. The magic is their versatility; you don’t have to plan for when you’re going off-road or when you’re staying on. It’s a 2-in-1 bike that allows you to do whatever you want, whenever you want. It’s like that cool, fun uncle you had as a kid who has no rules and doesn’t care what you do as long as you don’t maim or critically injure yourself.

So, if you’re interested in investing in a gravel grinder, we have models specialized for both touring and racing. Take a look at the full Forbes.com article, which goes into more detail as to the mechanics and inspiration behind the movement by clicking HERE

Love, Peace and Bicycle grease,

 

Matt & Julie

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