Is a Gravel Bike or Mountain Bike Better for Bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a popular activity that involves riding a bicycle off-road and carrying camping gear, food, and other essentials. With the growing popularity of bikepacking, there is a debate about whether a gravel bike or a mountain bike is better suited for this activity. While both types of bikes have their advantages and disadvantages, it ultimately depends on the individual’s personal preferences and the specific terrain they will be riding on. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both gravel bikes and mountain bikes for bikepacking, and help you decide which one is right for you. So, whether you’re a seasoned bikepacker or just starting out, read on to find out which bike will best meet your needs.

Choosing the Right Bike for Bikepacking

Factors to Consider

Terrain

When it comes to choosing a bike for bikepacking, the terrain should be a major consideration. The type of terrain you’ll be riding on will determine the type of bike that will work best for you. If you plan on riding on rough and rugged terrain, a mountain bike with wide tires and a low bottom bracket will be a better choice. On the other hand, if you plan on riding on smoother gravel roads, a gravel bike with a higher bottom bracket and narrower tires will be more suitable.

Weight and portability

Another important factor to consider when choosing a bike for bikepacking is weight and portability. Bikepacking trips often involve carrying your bike over difficult terrain, so a lightweight bike that is easy to carry will be essential. Gravel bikes are generally lighter than mountain bikes, making them a good choice for bikepacking. However, some mountain bikes can also be made lightweight by using carbon fiber frames and forgoing unnecessary accessories.

Comfort and ergonomics

Comfort and ergonomics are also important factors to consider when choosing a bike for bikepacking. Bikepacking trips can be long and grueling, so a bike that is comfortable to ride will be essential. Mountain bikes tend to have a more upright riding position, which can be more comfortable for some riders. Gravel bikes, on the other hand, have a more aggressive riding position, which can be more efficient for long distances but may be less comfortable for some riders.

Durability and maintenance

Durability and maintenance are also important factors to consider when choosing a bike for bikepacking. Bikepacking trips often involve riding in challenging conditions, so a bike that is durable and easy to maintain will be essential. Mountain bikes are generally more durable than gravel bikes, as they are designed to withstand rough terrain. However, gravel bikes can also be made durable by using high-quality components and regular maintenance.

Cost

Finally, cost is also an important factor to consider when choosing a bike for bikepacking. Gravel bikes tend to be more expensive than mountain bikes, as they are designed for high-performance road riding. However, some mountain bikes can also be expensive, especially if you opt for high-end components. When choosing a bike for bikepacking, it’s important to consider your budget and find a bike that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

Gravel Bikes

Advantages

• Smoother ride on rough roads and gravel
  • Gravel bikes are designed to handle a variety of surfaces, including rough roads and gravel. They have wider tires and a more relaxed geometry that allow them to float over rough terrain, providing a smoother ride than a mountain bike.
• Higher speed and efficiency
  • The design of gravel bikes allows for a more efficient ride, with a lower wind resistance and better aerodynamics. This results in higher speeds, especially on flat or downhill sections.
• Lower bottom bracket for stability
  • The lower bottom bracket on a gravel bike provides better stability at high speeds and on descents. It also allows for better control on rough terrain, as the rider can easily put a foot down if needed.
• Lower weight for easier portability
  • Gravel bikes are typically lighter than mountain bikes, making them easier to carry and transport. This is especially useful for bikepacking trips where the bike needs to be carried over long distances or over rough terrain. The lighter weight also makes it easier to climb hills and navigate technical terrain.

Disadvantages

• Limited suspension for rough terrain

Gravel bikes are designed for a specific type of terrain, and while they may be suitable for some rough roads, they lack the suspension systems found in mountain bikes. This can make them less comfortable for long rides on bumpy roads, as the lack of suspension can transfer more of the shock to the rider’s body.

• May require more maintenance

Gravel bikes are also more susceptible to damage from rough terrain than mountain bikes. The thin tires and lightweight frames can be easily damaged by rocks, roots, and other obstacles that are common on off-road trails. This means that gravel bike riders may need to spend more time and money on maintenance and repairs than mountain bike riders.

• Less comfortable for long distances

Finally, gravel bikes are generally less comfortable for long distances than mountain bikes. While they may be more efficient on smooth roads, the lack of suspension and the rough terrain that they are designed for can make them less comfortable for riders over long periods of time. This can make them less suitable for long-distance bikepacking trips, where comfort is key.

Mountain Bikes

• Better handling and control on rough terrain: Mountain bikes are designed to handle off-road terrain, with a focus on agility and control. They have a lower bottom bracket and shorter chainstays, which provide a more stable platform for navigating rough trails. Additionally, the wider handlebars and lower center of gravity offer better control on steep descents and technical sections.
• More suspension travel for better comfort and control: Mountain bikes typically have front suspension forks and rear suspension systems, which absorb shock and provide better comfort on rough terrain. This suspension travel also helps to maintain control and stability on descents and over rough obstacles.
• More durable and better suited for technical trails: Mountain bikes are built to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, with stronger frames, components, and wheels. They are designed to handle the impact of rocks, roots, and other obstacles, and are often equipped with wider tires for better traction and protection.
• Better braking capabilities: Mountain bikes typically have more powerful brakes, which are essential for controlling speed on steep descents and technical trails. Many mountain bikes also have disc brakes, which offer better stopping power and modulation than traditional rim brakes.

Overall, mountain bikes are well-suited for bikepacking due to their rugged construction, suspension travel, and agility on rough terrain. However, it’s important to choose a bike that is appropriate for the specific type of terrain and challenges that will be encountered on the trip.

• Heavier and less portable:
  • Mountain bikes are typically heavier than gravel bikes, which can make them more difficult to carry or transport when not in use.
  • This extra weight can also make it harder to maneuver the bike on steep or technical terrain, as well as slow down the rider’s speed on downhills.
• Less efficient on smooth roads and gravel:
  • Mountain bikes are designed for off-road riding and are typically equipped with wider tires and suspension systems that are better suited for rough terrain.
  • This makes them less efficient on smooth roads and gravel, as they are less able to roll easily over these surfaces and require more effort to maintain speed.
• Lower bottom bracket may make it less stable on some terrain:
  • The lower bottom bracket of a mountain bike can make it more stable on steep descents and technical terrain, but it can also make the bike less stable on some types of terrain, such as high-speed descents or narrow trails.
  • This can make it more difficult for the rider to maintain control of the bike and can increase the risk of accidents or crashes.

Making the Decision

Comparing Gravel and Mountain Bikes

When deciding between a gravel bike and a mountain bike for bikepacking, it’s important to consider the specific needs and preferences of the rider. Here are some key factors to consider when comparing these two types of bikes:

Pros and Cons of Each Type of Bike

Gravel bikes are designed for a smoother ride on a variety of surfaces, including dirt and gravel roads. They typically have a more relaxed geometry, making them more comfortable for long distances. They also have wider tires and disc brakes, which provide better control and braking power in different conditions.

On the other hand, mountain bikes are designed for more technical terrain, including rough roads, single track, and rocky trails. They have a more aggressive geometry, making them more maneuverable and stable on steep and rocky terrain. They also have front suspension and knobby tires, which provide better shock absorption and traction on rough terrain.

Personal Experiences and Recommendations from Other Riders

Personal experiences and recommendations from other riders can also be helpful in making a decision. Riders who enjoy a smoother ride on a variety of surfaces may prefer a gravel bike. Riders who enjoy more technical terrain and want a more aggressive ride may prefer a mountain bike.

Consulting with Bike Shops and Experts

Consulting with bike shops and experts can also provide valuable insights when deciding between a gravel bike and a mountain bike for bikepacking. Bike shops can provide information on the different types of bikes available, as well as recommendations based on the rider’s needs and preferences. Experts, such as professional cyclists or experienced bikepackers, can also provide advice and recommendations based on their own experiences.

Test Riding Both Types of Bikes if Possible

Test riding both types of bikes if possible is also a good idea when deciding between a gravel bike and a mountain bike for bikepacking. This allows the rider to get a feel for the bike and determine which type of bike best suits their needs and preferences.

Final Considerations

When choosing between a gravel bike and a mountain bike for bikepacking, it’s important to keep in mind that your personal preferences and needs should guide your decision. While both types of bikes have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to which bike is best for bikepacking.

One important factor to consider is the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. If you plan on doing mostly off-road riding on rough and technical trails, a mountain bike with suspension and wider tires may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you plan on doing mostly on-road riding on dirt and gravel roads, a gravel bike with narrower tires and a more aggressive geometry may be a better fit.

Another important consideration is your own personal preferences and comfort level. Some riders may prefer the more upright position and comfort of a mountain bike, while others may prefer the faster and more efficient ride of a gravel bike. Additionally, some riders may prefer the versatility of a bike that can handle both on- and off-road riding, while others may prefer a bike that is optimized for one type of riding.

Ultimately, the best bike for bikepacking will vary depending on individual needs and preferences. The most important factor is choosing a bike that makes you feel comfortable and confident, and that allows you to fully enjoy your ride. Consider taking a test ride or two to get a feel for different types of bikes before making a decision. With the right bike, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the freedom and adventure of bikepacking.

FAQs

1. What is bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a type of cycling that involves carrying gear and camping equipment on a bicycle, allowing riders to explore off-road routes and remote areas. It is a versatile and self-sufficient form of adventure, where cyclists can cover long distances on dirt roads, gravel, and singletrack trails.

2. What is a gravel bike?

A gravel bike is a type of bicycle designed for riding on a mix of pavement and dirt or gravel roads. These bikes typically have a drop handlebar, a relaxed frame geometry, and wider tires than traditional road bikes. They are often used for gravel racing, adventure rides, and bikepacking.

3. What is a mountain bike?

A mountain bike is a type of bicycle designed for off-road use, specifically for riding on rough terrain such as dirt trails, singletrack, and obstacles. These bikes typically have a more upright riding position, a suspension fork, and knobby tires. They are commonly used for trail riding, downhill racing, and enduro events.

4. What are the main differences between a gravel bike and a mountain bike?

The main differences between a gravel bike and a mountain bike are their design, geometry, and intended use. Gravel bikes are designed for a mix of paved and unpaved roads, with a focus on speed and efficiency. They have a more relaxed frame geometry, drop handlebars, and wider tires than mountain bikes. Mountain bikes, on the other hand, are designed for rough off-road terrain, with a focus on handling and control. They have a more upright riding position, suspension forks, and knobby tires optimized for grip on loose surfaces.

5. Which bike is better for bikepacking, a gravel bike or a mountain bike?

Both gravel bikes and mountain bikes can be used for bikepacking, and the choice depends on personal preferences and the specific route. A gravel bike is generally better for smoother and more diverse terrain, while a mountain bike is better suited for rougher and more technical trails. Gravel bikes are faster and more efficient on paved sections, while mountain bikes provide better control and stability on steep descents and rough terrain. Ultimately, the choice between a gravel bike and a mountain bike for bikepacking depends on the rider’s skills, preferences, and the specific route’s characteristics.

Is A Gravel Bike Better Than A Mountain Bike?