Gravel bikes, also called adventure bikes or mixed terrain bikes, are becoming more popular in the cycling scene because of their versatility and agility. This type of bike combines elements from both mountain and road bikes, specifically the former’s wide gearing and construction and the latter’s drop handlebars and bike geometry. As a result, you can ride a gravel bike with ease and comfort, whether it’s on off-road trails or asphalt roads.
So, if you’re looking for a trusty bike for both commuting and cycling adventures, the gravel bike is your best choice. In this article, we’ve listed 10 affordable yet high-quality gravel bikes for you to choose from. We also have a detailed buying guide so you’d know what to consider when purchasing one.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Here are some points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Given its versatility, a gravel bike can be taken for a ride on different terrains, from bike paths to rough roads and trails. Since not all gravel bikes are built the same, knowing where you’ll mostly ride it will give you an idea of what size of wheels, bike geometry, and other specifications to select.
Any gravel bike can work for commuting and road riding, but for gravel grinding, or distance riding over unpaved roads, your bike should have a lighter frame, a more forward riding position, and drop handlebars for better speed and efficiency. If you’re looking to try bikepacking, we recommend you purchase a gravel bike that has an upright riding position and a frame made of durable material.
One of the most important aspects that you must get right when buying any bike is the frame size, which refers to the length of the seat tube from the bottom bracket to the top tube. Gravel bikes are sized in centimeters or descriptive sizes (S, M, L). You can check out bike size charts and calculators online to help you know what suits you best in terms of comfort and handling.
Remember, the frame is not something you cannot easily replace or upgrade, so choose wisely! You can also delve more into frame geometry. This can be a little complicated to understand for beginners, but it's a great way to determine speed, stability, and more through the angles and distances between the basic parts of the bike's frame.
Gravel bikes are made from a variety of frame materials with aluminum, carbon, and steel as the three most common options.
Despite it being the cheapest among the three, aluminum does not compromise quality given its good strength-to-weight ratio. The stiffness of the material can sometimes make for uncomfortable rides, but with modern production methods, this is already being improved. Aluminum also tends to have a shorter lifespan than other materials because of its tendency to fatigue faster over time.
Compared to aluminum, carbon bikes are lighter, and because of this, they are able to better absorb road vibrations. This results in a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. Carbon fiber can also be formed into various shapes that help maximize the aerodynamic efficiency of a bike frame and enable more unique designs.
Steel is considered to be the most commonly used material for bike frames because of its high-tensile, strong and long-lasting qualities. The only downside is it’s much heavier compared to aluminum and carbon fiber. Chromoly, a more modern steel alloy, is a lighter, albeit pricier, alternative to carbon steel that still offers the material’s signature strength and durability.
Bikes are comprised of many moving parts. For you to fully gauge the one you are eyeing to buy, you first need to be familiar with the important aspects and what they contribute to the overall performance of your gravel bike.
Composed of pedals, cranks, chainrings, chain, cassette, and derailleur, the drivetrain is responsible for the movement and speed of a bike. Its most common types are the 1x and 2x drivetrains, referring to the number of front chainrings. If you’re a new rider, you’ll prefer the simplicity that 1x can provide. It allows you to focus on rear shifting alone, plus it’s easier to install and more lightweight.
The 2x drivetrain, on the other hand, provides more gear range and smoother transition between gears for experienced riders who want better climbing performance, especially in steep ascents. Because it’s a more complex setup than the 1x, it adds extra weight to your bike and can also require more maintenance.
Disc brakes are characterized by their effective and consistent stopping power even in wet and muddy conditions—something that will benefit gravel bike riders. These come in two basic types: mechanical and hydraulic. Mechanical disc brakes work by creating friction that slows the bike using a cable pulling system, while hydraulic disc brakes use fluid to transfer the braking force.
One of the main advantages of mechanical disc brakes is their compatibility with normal rim brake shifters and their lower price point. It’s also easier to maintain at home but tends to wear out more. On the flipside, hydraulic disc brakes are more efficient and lightweight, but they are a bit pricey compared to their mechanical counterparts.
Gravel bikes usually come with either 700c or 650b wheels. For light terrain and paved surfaces, 700c gravel wheels are ideal. With a larger diameter and the use of narrower tires (35mm to 42mm), these provide greater rolling speed and efficiency.
Because it has a smaller diameter, 650b wheels enable riders to use wider and knobby tires that offer better traction, grip, and adhesion in rougher terrains. These also absorb road bumps and vibrations for a much smoother ride, even on uneven surfaces.
To get the best bang for your buck, check out any extra features or inclusions that can add to a smoother, more enjoyable ride. Below are some features worth checking out:
From ₱19,999
First on our list is an ideal gravel bike for bikepacking, the Pinewood Lancer 1.0. Equipped with a sub-compact crankset and a 9-speed cassette, you can ride this bike with ease and comfort on off-roads and hilly terrains through climbs and descents.
Of course, it can also be used for casual riding when you’re not out seeking adventures with your cycling buddies. With its multiple mounting points, you can conveniently install racks for additional storage, bottle cages, and other accessories, depending on your needs.
From ₱13,900
This is currently one of the most raved about budget gravel bikes in the market because of its high-quality performance on the road, plus its stylish appearance. The Betta Halfmoon is furnished with the Sensah Ignite group set that makes changing gears easier and faster.
Its shifter levers also have a unique design and are longer for added comfort, especially during long rides. When it comes to visuals, this bike sports a sleek and clean look, thanks to its smooth weld aluminum alloy frame that comes with a matte finish. It’s available in black, black-red, and grey colorways.
From ₱11,990
If you’re planning to go on a ride that involves a combination of paved roads and trails, then this gravel bike might just be the one you are looking for. Its 700x35c rim allows for wider tires that provide increased traction and comfort and absorb bumps along the way.
Aside from that, this bike also has a wider gear range that makes for faster speeds, as well as a strong braking power. Lastly, it has a drop bar that allows the rider to do multiple hand positions, which can help increase speed and efficiency.
From ₱14,500
Nowadays, bikes with a 1x drivetrain have become more popular in the cycling world because of the many advantages it has on both performance and cost. The Foxeye Aventador, for example, enables riders, especially beginners, to shift gears much easier.
Because of its single chainring, you don’t have to deal with so many gears just to get the correct one. This gravel bike also has a 700c wheel size fit for larger tires that can provide more stability and durability in rides, even if these are on light or rough terrains.
From ₱12,650
This bike from local bicycle brand, Garuda, comes with an 8-speed Microshift groupset that makes it both affordable and reliable. For an entry-level gravel bike, this gearing is enough to take on pavement and dirt roads with speed and ease.
It is also equipped with an aluminum alloy frame that is lightweight and stiff, which makes it easier for you to accelerate and maintain speed. This allows you to use your energy more efficiently, resulting in higher average speed and longer rides.
From ₱15,000
We're sure that you will fully maximize your gravel grinding if you have the right bike for it! Take, for example, Viper's Assault 2.0 Gravel Bike. With a compact chainset that allows you to take on steep hills and 700x38c wheels that provide traction and comfort on bumpy roads, this is a bike you shouldn't miss out on.
In addition to these, it also has a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and a drop handlebar that are ideal to have when you plan to ride on off-roads. This bike has a matte finish and comes in four colors: navy-red, black-blue, silver, and gray-orange.
From ₱13,999
Another bike on our list with a 1x drivetrain is the Toseek Targa GX, which is also equipped with Sensah components for better shifting. For its price, this bike is definitely a steal, given the combination of performance, style, and comfort it offers. You can ride it smoothly on paved roads and biking trails, even for long distances.
However, one thing to be wary about bikes that have a single chainring, in general, is the possibility of the chain falling off. When this happens, check if the chain is installed correctly as well as the condition of the chain and the chainring. You can also opt to add a chain retention device if you wish.
From ₱7,999
Gravel and road bikes share a handful of elements, such as their nearly identical frames and drop cockpits that focus on speed and aerodynamics. Both of these can be seen on the RUX Gravel Bike. It is also equipped with a high-quality LTWOO groupset and mechanical disc brakes.
On the other hand, the main difference between gravel and road bikes lies in the wheels and tires. This bike comes with 700x38c wheels that can cater to wider tires with lower tire pressure to get more grip and comfort when dealing with unpaved paths.
From ₱7,800
Not everyone is looking to go bikepacking or gravel grinding with their bikes. If you’re someone who just wants the relaxed geometry, extra stability, and increased comfort that a gravel bike can provide for your daily commutes or for exercise, we recommend the Promax PR20.
This 21-speed bike is equipped with a thumb gear shifter, mechanical disc brakes, and an adjustable and quick-release seat post. It also has alloy rims that can accommodate 700x35c tires.
From ₱15,000
If you are in need of a gravel bike that can perform but is also affordable, you can definitely check out the Forge Gravel Alloy Bike. It has all the basics that you need: a high-quality alloy frame, a big clearance for tires, mechanical disc brakes, and a 3x7 shifter model.
As a 21-speed bike, it offers a good range of gear combinations. This can help you use your energy efficiently, especially on steep routes, and lets you maintain a fast pace while applying less force.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Entry-level gravel bikes in the Philippines can go as low as Php 6,975. From there, the price depends on the brand, parts, and specs of the bike, with some reaching as high as Php 470,000 and above for high-end ones.
The best budget gravel bikes in the market have lightweight and durable frames, a high-quality drive train, a large clearance for tires, and a relaxed frame geometry, all within a reasonable price.
Depending on the amount of time you have in your hands, your budget, and your technical know-how on bikes, building your own bike can actually be a worthwhile experience. Its main benefit is being able to customize the specs on your own instead of buying a whole bike then replacing the parts that you don't want later on.
Whether you're cycling for fitness, leisure or as a mode of commute, here are some must-have accessories that you can get for your gravel bike.
Author: Teresa Gatmaitan
Editor: R. Umlas
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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