Best Gravel Ebikes: Top 8 Must-Have Picks for 2024

Why Gravel Ebikes Are Taking Over

Exploring the great outdoors has never been easier thanks to best gravel ebikes. These machines offer the perfect blend of power and versatility, making them ideal for both rugged terrain and city streets.

Top Gravel Ebikes for 2024:
1. Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty
2. Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO
3. Ribble CGR AL e
4. Look E-765 Gravel
5. Canyon Grail:ON
6. Cairn E-Trip 1.0
7. Pinarello Nytro Gravel
8. Wilier Jena Hybrid

Gravel ebikes are more than a trend; they’re a revolution in cycling. As traditional bikes meet advanced e-motor technology, the result is a smooth ride on any surface. From commuting to exhilarating off-road trips, gravel ebikes redefine what it means to ride a bike.

Market Trends

The gravel eBike market is booming. More people are seeking eco-friendly transportation, and technology companies are stepping up with innovative designs and features. The demand is fueled by the need for versatile, reliable, and fun modes of transport.

Benefits

These bikes offer numerous benefits:

Versatility: Perfect for both road and off-road trips.
Efficiency: Pedal-assist motors make long rides smoother and less exhausting.
Eco-Friendly: Ideal for reducing your carbon footprint.

Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just someone looking for a more sustainable way to commute, gravel ebikes offer a fantastic solution.

Handy best gravel ebikes terms:

Why Choose a Gravel Ebike?

Gravel ebikes offer a unique blend of versatility, all-terrain capability, and urban commuting convenience. Let’s break down why they might be the perfect choice for you.

Versatility

Gravel ebikes are designed to handle a variety of surfaces. Whether you’re riding on pavement, dirt roads, or rocky trails, these bikes perform exceptionally well.

Multiple Uses: They can transition seamlessly from off-road trips to daily commutes.
Mounting Points: Most come with mounting points for racks and mudguards, making them ideal for carrying luggage or groceries.

All-Terrain Capability

These bikes are built to tackle rough terrains with ease.

Robust Tires: Wider tires (minimum 40mm) provide better traction and comfort on uneven surfaces.
Strong Frames: Built to withstand the rigors of off-road conditions, ensuring durability.
High Torque Motors: Motors like Bosch’s Performance Line CX provide up to 85Nm of torque, making steep climbs and technical trails manageable.

Urban Commuting

Gravel ebikes aren’t just for the trails; they’re also excellent for city commuting.

Smooth Ride: The pedal-assist feature makes for a smooth and less exhausting ride, even in heavy traffic.
Convenient Charging: Many models offer removable batteries, making it easy to charge at work or home.
Safety Features: Integrated lights and strong brakes improve safety during urban rides.

Real-World Example

Consider the Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO. Its Future Shock 2.0 suspension and SL 2.1 motor make it a top choice for both rugged terrain and city streets. The integrated Mission Control app allows for real-time adjustments, making it a versatile option for any rider.

Choosing a gravel ebike means investing in a bike that can do it all. Whether you’re planning an off-road trip or just need a reliable commuter, gravel ebikes offer the best of both worlds.

Next, let’s dive into the Best Gravel Ebikes of 2024 to help you find the perfect fit.

Best Gravel Ebikes of 2024

Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty

The Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty is a standout in the gravel ebike market. This bike features full suspension with 30mm travel on both the front and rear, thanks to the Lefty Oliver fork and Kingpin Softail suspension. Powered by the Bosch Performance Line CX motor, it offers up to 75Nm of torque, ensuring you can tackle rocky inclines with ease. The 500Wh battery provides a range of up to 125km (78 miles), making it perfect for long rides.

Reasons to Buy:

Full suspension for a smooth ride
High-torque motor for challenging terrains
Long battery life

Reasons to Avoid:

Higher price point
More bike than most casual riders will need

Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO

The Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO is built for both rugged and urban environments. It boasts the Future Shock 2.0 suspension stem and the SL 2.1 motor, which provides 240W of assistance. The integrated Mission Control app allows for real-time adjustments and range optimization. With a 320Wh battery and an optional range extender, you can achieve up to 128km (80 miles) of ride time.

Reasons to Buy:

Advanced suspension for comfort
Customizable power settings with the Mission Control app
Lightweight carbon frame

Reasons to Avoid:

Expensive
Limited to Specialized’s proprietary components

Ribble CGR AL e

The Ribble CGR AL e is a versatile and more affordable option. It uses the MAHLE Ebikemotion system, which is lightweight and discreet. The 250W rear hub motor and 250Wh battery offer a range of up to 96km (60 miles). Ribble’s Bike Builder tool allows for customizable builds, making it easy to tailor the bike to your needs.

Reasons to Buy:

Lightweight and sleek design
Customizable components
Affordable

Reasons to Avoid:

Less powerful motor
Limited battery capacity

Look E-765 Gravel

The Look E-765 Gravel is designed for speed and performance. It features the Fazua 250W motor and is crafted from high-end carbon fiber, making it extremely lightweight. The motor and battery system are seamlessly integrated, providing a range of up to 86km (53 miles) on mixed surfaces.

Reasons to Buy:

High-end carbon fiber frame
Lightweight design
Efficient motor system

Reasons to Avoid:

Limited range
Minimal mounting points for accessories

Canyon Grail:ON

The Canyon Grail:ON is built for trip. It features the powerful Bosch Performance Line CX motor, delivering up to 85Nm of torque. The 500Wh battery ensures a range of up to 120km (75 miles). Its unique double-decker Hover bar offers added compliance, though it may be impractical for mounting accessories.

Reasons to Buy:

High torque for steep climbs
Long battery life
Comfortable riding position

Reasons to Avoid:

Heavy
Hover bar design may not suit all riders

Cairn E-Trip 1.0

The Cairn E-Trip 1.0 is a great option for bikepacking enthusiasts. It features the Fazua Evation 1.0 motor and an alloy frame, making it both durable and affordable. With plenty of mounting points for racks and accessories, it’s ideal for long-distance rides.

Reasons to Buy:

Affordable
Ideal for bikepacking
Durable alloy frame

Reasons to Avoid:

Limited motor power
Heavier than carbon alternatives

Pinarello Nytro Gravel

The Pinarello Nytro Gravel combines performance and style. Made from Toray T700 carbon, it features an asymmetric design for optimized power transfer. With a 40mm tire clearance, it’s ready for rough terrains. The Fazua motor offers a balanced performance for both road and gravel riding.

Reasons to Buy:

High-performance carbon frame
Stylish design
Balanced motor

Reasons to Avoid:

Expensive
Limited tire clearance

Wilier Jena Hybrid

The Wilier Jena Hybrid is versatile and customizable. It uses the Mahle ebikemotion system, offering multiple spec levels to fit various budgets. With a tire clearance of up to 44mm, it’s suitable for both gravel and road riding. The motor controller is conveniently mounted on the bars for easy adjustments.

Reasons to Buy:

Multiple spec levels
High tire clearance
Convenient motor controller

Reasons to Avoid:

Less powerful motor
Heavier than some competitors

Next, let’s explore the Key Features to Consider when buying a gravel ebike.

Key Features to Consider

Choosing the best gravel ebike involves several key factors. Let’s break them down:

Motor Type

The motor is the heart of your ebike. For gravel ebikes, brands like Bosch, Fazua, and Shimano are popular choices. The power of the motor can vary:

High Torque Motors (around 80Nm): Ideal for technical terrains and steep climbs. Examples include the Bosch Performance Line CX.
Moderate Torque Motors (around 40-50Nm): Lighter and more efficient for mixed surfaces. Fazua Evation 1.0 is a good example.

Battery Size

Battery capacity affects how far you can ride before needing a recharge. This is measured in watt-hours (Wh):

Large Batteries (500Wh or more): These offer extended range but add weight. The Canyon Grail:ON, with its 500Wh battery, provides up to 120km (75 miles) of range.
Medium Batteries (around 250Wh): Lighter but with shorter range. The Ribble CGR AL e uses a 250Wh battery, offering up to 96km (60 miles).

Consider if the battery is removable for easy charging and if there’s an option for a range extender, like the Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO.

Bike Weight

Weight impacts the bike’s handling and ease of transport. Gravel ebikes tend to be heavier than their non-electric counterparts due to the motor and battery:

Carbon Frames: Light and strong. The Look E-765 Gravel and Pinarello Nytro Gravel use high-end carbon fiber to keep weight down.
Alloy Frames: More affordable but heavier. The Cairn E-Trip 1.0 is a durable alloy option for bikepacking.

Budget

Your budget will determine the range of features you can afford. High-end models can cost as much as a used car, but there are affordable options too:

High-End: Expect to pay a premium for advanced features and materials. For example, the Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty offers full suspension and a powerful motor.
Affordable: Look for models like the Ribble CGR AL e, which balances cost with performance using a MAHLE Ebikemotion system.

Other Considerations

Information Display: Helps you monitor battery life and mode. Some models, like the Wilier Jena Hybrid, have convenient handlebar-mounted controllers.
Tire Size: Wider tires (40mm or more) offer better stability and comfort. The Pinarello Nytro Gravel supports up to 40mm tires, while the Canyon Grail:ON allows for up to 50mm.
Mounting Points: Essential for carrying gear. The Cairn E-Trip 1.0 excels with multiple mounting points for racks and accessories.

Next, let’s dive into How to Choose the Right Gravel Ebike based on your riding style and terrain.

How to Choose the Right Gravel Ebike

Choosing the best gravel ebike depends on several factors. Let’s look at the key aspects to consider:

Riding Style

Your riding style will greatly influence your choice of gravel ebike. Here are some common styles:

Commuting: If you plan to use your ebike for daily commutes, look for models with comfortable geometry, efficient motors, and long battery life. The Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty, with its full suspension, offers a smooth ride over urban potholes and rough paths.
Trip Riding: For bikepacking or long-distance rides, prioritize bikes with robust frames, multiple mounting points, and large battery capacity. The Cairn E-Trip 1.0 is an excellent choice, designed with bikepacking features and a durable alloy frame.
Technical Terrain: If you’re tackling technical trails, opt for high-torque motors and full suspension. The Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO, with its Future Shock 2.0 suspension, is ideal for rough trails.

Terrain

The type of terrain you’ll be riding on also plays a crucial role:

Mixed Terrain: For a mix of road and off-road, choose a versatile bike with moderate torque motors and tires wide enough for stability. The Ribble CGR AL e, with its customizable builds, is perfect for varied conditions.
Rough Terrain: On rocky or muddy trails, high-torque motors and wide tires are essential. The Canyon Grail:ON, with its Bosch Performance Line CX motor and 500Wh battery, excels in these conditions.
Urban Terrain: If you’ll be riding mostly on paved surfaces, consider lighter bikes with narrower tires. The Look E-765 Gravel, featuring a lightweight carbon frame and Fazua 250W motor, is great for city riding.

Range Requirements

Think about how far you need to travel on a single charge:

Short Rides: For shorter commutes or rides, a smaller battery might suffice. The Ribble CGR AL e offers a 250Wh battery, which is lighter and good for shorter distances.
Long Rides: For extended trips, a larger battery is necessary. The Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO offers a range extender that adds an extra 64km (40mi) to its already impressive 128km (80mi) range.
Overnight Trips: If you plan to take overnight trips, consider if the bike’s battery is removable for easy charging. The Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty, with its large 500Wh battery, is perfect for long journeys.

By considering your riding style, the terrain you’ll cover, and your range requirements, you can find the best gravel ebike custom to your needs.

Next, we’ll address some Frequently Asked Questions about gravel ebikes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Gravel Ebikes

Can electric bikes go on gravel?

Absolutely! Electric bikes are designed to handle various terrains, including gravel. Gravel ebikes, in particular, are built with features that make them perfect for these conditions. For example, they come with wider tires (minimum 40mm) for better traction and stability on loose surfaces. The Cannondale Topstone Neo Carbon 3 Lefty is a great example, with its full suspension and robust tires, making it ideal for gravel paths.

Why get an electric gravel bike?

Electric gravel bikes offer a blend of versatility and convenience. Here’s why you might consider one:

Versatility: These bikes are not just for off-road trips. With their sturdy build, wide tires, and multiple mounting points, they are also excellent for urban commuting. The Canyon Grail:ON with its high-torque motor and durable design is perfect for both city streets and rugged trails.
Assistance: The electric motor provides an extra boost, making it easier to tackle hills and long distances. This can be especially helpful if you’re carrying heavy loads or just want a less strenuous ride. The Specialized Turbo Creo SL Carbon Comp EVO offers up to 240W of assistance, making tough rides more manageable.
Comfort: Wider tires and often some form of suspension make gravel ebikes more comfortable over rough terrain compared to traditional road bikes. The Future Shock 2.0 suspension on the Specialized model is a prime example of this.

What is the difference between a trail bike and a gravel bike?

While both trail and gravel bikes are designed for off-road use, there are key differences:

Purpose: Trail bikes are generally designed for more technical off-road riding, like mountain biking. They have more suspension travel, wider tires, and are built to handle rougher terrain. Gravel bikes, on the other hand, are more versatile. They can handle both paved roads and gravel paths, making them suitable for commuting, touring, and light off-road trips.
Design: Gravel bikes usually have drop handlebars and a geometry that’s closer to road bikes, providing a more aerodynamic riding position. Trail bikes often have flat handlebars and a more upright riding position for better control on technical trails.
Components: Gravel bikes often use 1x drivetrains for simplicity and reliability over varied terrain, while trail bikes might have more complex gearing systems to handle steeper climbs and descents. For instance, the Pinarello Nytro Gravel features a 1x drivetrain, ideal for mixed terrain riding.

By understanding these differences, you can choose the bike that best fits your intended use.

Next, we’ll dive into the Key Features to Consider when selecting the best gravel ebike.

Conclusion

In summary, gravel ebikes are a fantastic option for those looking for versatility, comfort, and a bit of extra power. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails, these bikes offer a unique blend of features that make them suitable for a wide range of activities.

At Doot Scoot, we are passionate about promoting eco-friendly transportation solutions. Gravel ebikes align perfectly with our mission to provide sustainable and efficient transportation options. These bikes not only reduce your carbon footprint but also offer a fun and practical way to get around.

Why choose Doot Scoot? We specialize in comprehensive eBike reviews, in-depth guides, and expert comparisons to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Our focus on eco-friendly and urban mobility ensures that we provide the best recommendations for modern, environmentally-conscious riders.

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re considering a gravel ebike, now is the perfect time to explore your options. With advancements in technology and design, 2024 offers some of the best models yet. For exclusive deals and more information, visit our Best Deals page.

Choosing a gravel ebike is not just a purchase; it’s an investment in a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Join us at Doot Scoot in making a positive impact on the environment while enjoying the many benefits of electric biking.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need personalized recommendations. We’re here to help you find the perfect gravel ebike for your needs. Happy riding!