The data that helps us tailor the blog to our needs clearly shows that this topic is a very popular search query on Google. At first, I was surprised – it seemed obvious to me that such bikes were very few, and at least half of them were distinguished by marketing, not technology. Once again, the ignorance of those in the industry is on full display. After all, a women's gravel bike doesn't necessarily mean a pink bike with the word "Lady" written on it. It's a perfectly reasonable query for a woman who wants to buy a bike and expects it to fit her body. And it's no wonder, after all, many women have struggled for years with an inheritance from their brother or simply couldn't find anything suitable. Outside of the city and touring segments, there aren't many women's bikes. Therefore, in this article, I'll try to suggest what to look for when buying, how to avoid frustration, and what to avoid. I invite you to read on!
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Does such a bike even exist?
Well, several brands offer women's gravel bikes or separate lines. This usually applies to lower- and mid-range models. Carbon gravel bikes for women are an absolute rarity. That's why most women buy bikes labeled "men's" or "unisex." Then, if necessary, they customize them to their needs. So, a women's gravel bike is a perfectly reasonable concept. Differences from men's gravel bikes primarily include different saddles and stems, but also often cranksets, customized levers, and finally, frames with different geometry.
A women's gravel bike is, above all, the right dimensions
Of course, the most common version of feminization (besides the pink color) is making a bike in smaller sizes. Statistically, this even makes some sense. However, let's pay attention to the geometry of those manufacturers who make frames specifically for women. The top tube is usually shorter, which prevents the rider from stretching too much. It's also usually slightly lower, making it easier to get out of the saddle. This is a good guide when looking for unisex models. This makes sense even for taller women, who, incidentally, are often hard-pressed to find bikes. Such a women's gravel bike should also have narrower handlebars (400-420mm) and a women's saddle. An important dimension is the length of the cranks – they should be adjusted for smaller frame sizes and range around 165-167.6mm. Of course, this doesn't apply to taller women.
For very petite women, I also recommend considering a bike with smaller 650b wheels. Such a women's gravel bike will be more proportionate, lighter, and more maneuverable. It also avoids the unpleasant phenomenon of overlap, where the toe of the shoe catches on the front wheel when turning.
Women's gravel bikes are unfortunately the most commonly adapted bikes.
As I mentioned, few companies make women's gravel bikes specifically. Therefore, I don't recommend insisting on finding bikes with specific names. Especially since choosing a saddle or stems that suit your individual build and preferences is not uncommon. And the remaining components will sell easily. After all, not every women's gravel bike is perfect for you.
See more - Gravel bike frame
Other matters
Women's gravel bikes need to be optimal not only in terms of size. Don't let this focus overshadow other important aspects of buying a bike. Pay attention to the brakes – mechanical ones will have significantly poorer modulation and require more force. Drivetrains without a front derailleur are great, but only if they're designed for it (from 11 speeds upwards). We say no to all these innovations – a falling chain is not cool. Ease of use, reliability, and reduced weight are strong arguments in favor. However, if you want to ride in the mountains or feel you lack the physical strength, it's better to opt for two chainrings at the front – then you'll certainly have plenty of gears.
Beware of strange groupsets and unbranded components. Some manufacturers are quite dismissive of women's bikes, equipping them with significantly inferior components. It's simply sad.
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