Many people have always wanted a bike that can handle off-road adventures and paved roads. This is why gravel bikes easily became very popular among numerous cyclists. These bikes are developed to run on rough terrains without compromising speed.
However, many of these gravel bikes come at premium prices because of the numerous features they offer. Fortunately, you too can still enjoy the benefits of a gravel bike without spending too much.
There are tons of gravel bikes under $1500, and we have helped you streamline the options to the best 10. Our experts tested them using various factors, including speed, frame, comfort, etc. All that is left is for you to choose the best one for your needs.
Best Gravel Bikes Under $1500
Co-op Cycles ADV 2.1
Why did we choose this bike?
- Very beginner-friendly
- Relaxed geometry
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 35c tires.
- Number of Speed: 16 speed
- Brakes: Mechanical Disc Brake
Pros
- It sports a lightweight frame made from aluminum
- Appealing finish
- Tons of eyelets available
- It comes with tubeless-ready tires and rims
Cons
- You will require more finger power to trigger the brakes
Overview
The Co-op Cycles ADV is an entry-level gravel bike that comes with an aluminum frame alongside an equally light fork. This makes the bike comfortable, fast, and responsive regardless of the route. With the carbon fork, users can be sure of a smoother ride since it easily absorbs vibrations from the train.
It is not selective about terrains, as the 16-speed drivetrain gives you more than enough options for easy navigation. If you ever need to stop in a hurry during your rides, the reliable dual-piston mechanical brakes will do so with their amazing stopping power. However, you will need to use a bit of power when braking for the best results.
State Bicycle 6061 Black Label Gravel Bike
Why did we choose this bike?
- Amazing on rough terrains
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c or 650b
- Tires: 23c tires.
- Number of Speed: 11 speed
- Brakes: Dual caliper brakes
Pros
- Very affordable price
- The stock option comes with a carbon fork with the option of upgrading to a Monster fork ideal for bikepacking
- Its aluminum frame is stiff and light
- It can use either 650b or 700c wheels
Cons
- The available options are limited
- It does not come with top and underside tube mounts which are essential for longer rides.
Overview
The State Bicycle 6061 gravel bike was created with a focus on off-road riding. During your purchase, you have the option of choosing either 700c or 650b wheels or both. If you buy both, you will be able to switch them depending on the terrain you are riding.
Its tires come with adequate knobs that provide grips on gravel, bumpy roads, mud, forest routes, and other forms of terrains. In addition, this bike runs flawlessly on paved roads, which is what makes it great for those after versatility.
This bike takes customization further since you can choose accessories like saddle type, lock, water bottle cage, and pedals. With this option, you can save money from buying them separately.
Tommaso Illimitate Disc 40C
Why did we choose this bike?
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 40c tires.
- Number of Speed: 10 speed
- Brakes: Disk Brakes
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Wheel and frame are extremely durable
- Gear adjustment is smooth
- The handlebars are very compact
Cons
- It may be difficult for some users to assemble
- The bike might require pedal adjustments
Overview
The Tommaso Illimitate sports a compact aluminum frame which ensures control and maneuvering the bike is easy. There is also a carbon fiber fork attached which helps in absorbing vibrations from the road, thus improving comfort. The compact handlebars help to further increase this level of comfort alongside shallow drops and ergonomic flat tops.
The 700c x 40 tires offer amazing grips on every terrain, and if you need to stop in a hurry, the Avid BB5 mechanical disk brakes with powerful stopping power have you covered. However, make sure you properly adjust them for the best performance.
Fuji Jari 2.1
Why did we choose this bike?
- Great performance geometry
- Compatible with rear and front racks
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 37c tires.
- Number of Speed: 10 speed
- Brakes: Mechanical Disk Brakes
Pros
- Tons of mounting options
- Attractive looking bike
Cons
- Some components of this bike are not so durable
Overview
The Fuji Jari 2.1 is a great entry-level bike that offers amazing features. For instance, it sports the Shimano Tiagra groupset with 20 gears allowing you to easily conquer various routes. If you ever find yourself going too fast, you can easily bring this bike to a halt using the mechanical disk brakes.
Also, the bike comes alongside a carbon fork which helps in absorbing some of the vibrations on uneven routes. This helps ensure you enjoy a more comfortable ride. The Jari 2.1 supports long rides since it is compatible with racks that allow you to increase your storage space. Using the provided storage, you can equip the bike with up to 3 water storages. Overall, the Fuji Jari 2.1 will provide any beginner value for their money.
Trek Domane AL 3 Disc
Why did we choose this bike?
- Ideal for long adventure rides
- Quality build and finish
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 37c tires.
- Number of Speed: 10 speed
- Brakes: Mechanical Disk Brakes
Pros
- Stylish design and finish
- Lightweight and easy to control
- For design allows for absorption
- Comfortable for lengthy bike rides
Cons
- The brake stopping power is not that great
- The brake pads are not up to average quality
Overview
The Trek Domane gravel bike is a gravel bike developed by Trek. This bike is extremely lightweight and can take up to 125kg in weight. It also has an aluminum frame that ensures anyone, including beginner riders, can easily control this bike on various terrains. You can be sure of a more comfortable ride with the Trek Domane since it has carbon forks that absorb tons of vibrations from the road.
The bike also comes with a DuoTrap S sensor which uses Bluetooth to connect to your smartphones or other supported devices. With this, you can monitor your distance, speed, etc., ensuring you keep up with your fitness goals while off-road. This gravel bike also supports up to 3 bottle cages, rear racks, and other essential accessories that are vital for any gravel bike. In essence, you can fit this bike with the cargo required for taking long bike rides.
Marin Gestalt 2
Why did we choose this bike?
- Amazing look and well-equipped
- Extremely versatile
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 35c
- Number of Speed: 10 speed
- Brakes: Mechanical Disk Brakes
Pros
- The frame is of high quality while remaining lightweight
- Handling is smooth
- It is lightweight
- Amazing braking system
- Supports upgrades
Cons
- Some of the components are of low quality
- It is impossible to install V-brakes
Overview
Marin Gestalt 2 is a gravel bike that is great for beginners because of its superb handling. This is partly due to the frame, which is made from aluminum. The design is also amazing, so if you care about looks, then this will surely meet your standards.
It sports 700c wheels alongside 32 mm tires but offers clearance for 35c tires. These tires will be great for various terrains since they offer adequate comfort and grip. The Marin Gestalt 2 also comes with 30 gears that allow for a smooth transition and make it easy to climb or descent a hill fast.
Like many other gravel bikes, this bike can be fitted with fenders and other vital accessories. This will make it possible for you to enjoy long adventure trips with adequate water, food, and crucial items.
Diamondback Bicycles Haanjo 4
Why did we choose this bike?
- Offers the best experience on off-road adventures
Specifications
- Frame material: Alloy
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 40c
- Number of Speed: 9 – S speed
- Brakes: Mechanical Disk Brakes
Pros
- Affordable price without a compromise to quality
- Carbon fork that helps with absorbing vibration
- 40c tire has great grip and can avert rim pinches
Cons
- The handlebars are wide and may make it difficult to maneuver
Overview
The Haanjo gravel bike is one that was built for adventurers in mind. Its frame offers an endurance geometry which makes it ideal for riders who want to go on bikepacking trips or extremely long rides. The bike has a Shimano GRX400 and a 10=speed drivetrain, which you will commonly find in gravel bikes that focus on off-road rides.
It also sports 37mm off-road tires and wide handlebars that make the off-road gravel experience complete. For the price of less than $1,500, this is a bike worth having.
Masi Giramondo
Why did we choose this bike?
- Ideal for long bikepacking trips
- It can be used on various terrains
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 45c
- Number of Speed: 10 speed
- Brakes: Mechanical Disk Brakes
Pros
- It sports internal cable routing
- There are rear and front racks attached
- It can work without hassles on numerous terrains
Cons
- Brakes need some pad adjustment occasionally
Overview
The Masi Giramondo offers users a more relaxed geometry, which means you can ride in a more comfortable upright position. It also sports both front and rear racks, which provides more cargo space for longer bikepacking trips. This gravel bike comes with a mechanical brake which is not the best but works just fine to help you stop when you want to.
Lastly, the 700c x 45c tires will ensure you can ride on both smooth, rocky, dirt, and gravel terrains without an issue. If you are a beginner planning to pick up bikepacking, this is a great bike for you.
Trek Checkpoint AL 3
Why did we choose this bike?
- Great for various riding styles
- It comes with mounts for extra storage
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 38c
- Number of Speed: 9 speed
- Brakes: Disk Brakes
Pros
- Very comfortable when used for long rides
- Mount available on the down tube to accommodate items
- Internal routing ensures cables are protected
- Versatile bike
Cons
- Tires may be too skinny for some users
Overview
The Trek Checkpoint AL 3 is a gravel bike for entry-level users developed by Trek. The AL stands for Aluminum which is used in creating the frame. This is combined with a carbon fiber fork which gives the bike a stiff and lightweight feel.
It uses a Shimano drivetrain which gets you up to 9 speeds that allow seamless transitioning. This bike also sports tubeless-ready wheels making it easy to upgrade if you need to. What’s more, the disc brakes fitted in this bike ensure you have the best stopping power regardless of the weather. Overall, this is an extremely rugged bike that can work without issues for all riding styles, including daily commutes, bikepacking, and gravel rides.
Boardman CXR 8.9
Why did we choose this bike?
Specifications
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Wheel size: 700c
- Tires: 33c
- Number of Speed: 11 speed
- Brakes: Hydraulic Disk Brakes
Pros
- Colorful design that gives off an appealing look
- It comes with Hydraulic disk breaks
- It uses a 1x drivetrain that avoids problems in muddy terrains.
Cons
- Geometry may not be great for long-distance rides.
- Some riders may find the Cyclo-cross tires unappealing
Overview
The Boardman CXR 8.9 gravel bike is a very colorful bike that many will find appealing. Its frame is made from aluminum which gives it a lightweight and allows for easy control in different terrains. SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain offers users up to 11 speeds allowing users to easily go past various terrains, including muddy routes at great speed.
If the need to stop the bike ever arises when at high speeds, the powerful hydraulic brakes will make this a breeze. Anyone looking to get a decent off-road adventure will do no wrong with this gravel bike.
How To Find the Best Gravel Bikes Under $1500?
Gravel bikes are extremely popular, and you will find tons of options under $1500. However, not all of these bikes are built the same way, which is why we recommend that you use the following factors to make your decision.
Frame Material
Gravel bikes are created using different frame materials, including steel, Aluminum, and Carbon fiber. Each of these materials has unique areas in which they excel, so you will need to weigh each one properly before choosing a gravel bike. Steel frames are the options for cheaper gravel bikes, but they tend to be heavier than other alternatives.
Aluminum frames are also quite common and ensure the gravel bike is lightweight and durable. However, it is not as strong as other options. The last option, which is carbon fiber, is extremely lightweight, durable, and offers amazing shock absorption. However, you will hardly find them on low-end bikes since they are quite expensive. Ensure you properly weigh each one alongside its pros and cons before you choose a gravel bike.
Brakes
Gravel bikes work best off-road, which means you want the best type of brakes on your gravel bikes. The options available to you include disc brakes and hydraulic brakes. We recommend you go for options with disc brakes because of the wheel clearance they offer. Disc brakes are also better since they allow you to try out wider tires on your gravel bike. Modern gravel bikes come with 35mm to 50mm tires, and bikes with non-disc brakes won’t be able to use anything above 3omm. Some gravel bikes also come with hydraulic brakes, but these can also be tricky since maintenance has to be carried out by experts. Make sure you weigh each one to determine the ideal choice.
Groupset
Gravel bikes offer 1x, 2x, and 3x shifting. Each of these has its benefits and drawbacks, so you will need to carefully weigh each one. 1x shifting has the lowest number of gears and is easy to maintain. This makes them great for beginners since cross-chaining does not occur. However, as opposed to 2x or 3x shifting, it has larger jumps between gears. 2x shifting, on the other hand, offers more gear range which may be beneficial during fast descents. But these have a higher tendency to fail due to the presence of numerous parts. The 3x shifting is the last option, and it comes with more gears selection. However, because of its complexity, it is not so common.
Wheel Size
One thing you want to consider is the wheel size. Gravel bikes can come with either 700c or 650b wheels, and the right one is dependent on your riding terrain. 700c can run on light terrains and paved surfaces, while 650b are better for rougher terrains because of their smaller diameter and high-volume tires.
Compatibility with Accessories
If you plan on going on long adventure rides, you will need a gravel bike that supports accessories like racks for more cargo space. This will ensure you can store your important items during those long trips.
Wrap Up
Gravel bikes are great, and you don’t have to spend so much to enjoy the benefits of these bikes. Above, we have listed 10 of the best options you can purchase for less than $1500. Any of these will be great to begin your off-road riding experience.