When it comes to tackling the rugged terrains and open roads of gravel biking, the single-speed gravel bike stands out as a marvel of simplicity and efficiency. Stripped down to the essentials, these bikes epitomize the raw, unfiltered experience of cycling.
They offer a unique blend of challenge and thrill that appeals to both seasoned cyclists and adventurous newcomers alike. Imagine the exhilaration of navigating diverse landscapes, relying solely on your strength and skill, unencumbered by the complexities of gears.
Whether you're drawn to the allure of minimalist design or the desire for a more intimate connection with the ride, the single-speed gravel bike promises an unmatched journey of freedom and discovery.
1. 2020 STORMCHASER SINGLE SPEED
The 2020 Stormchaser Single Speed bike is a testament to simplicity and durability, designed to conquer challenging gravel terrains with minimal fuss. As a gravel grinder, it promises a blend of reliability, robustness, and an unfiltered cycling experience. Let's delve into the specifics of this remarkable bike, exploring its features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The Stormchaser Single Speed boasts a minimalist yet rugged design. Crafted from premium aluminum alloy, the frame strikes a balance between lightweight and sturdiness. The sleek matte finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also offers a layer of protection against the elements. Salsa Cycles, the manufacturer, has clearly prioritized durability, making it a dependable choice for gravel enthusiasts.
The bike's geometry is optimized for endurance and stability. The slightly relaxed head tube angle, combined with a longer wheelbase, ensures confident handling on loose and uneven surfaces. This design choice is particularly beneficial for long rides, providing comfort without compromising control.
Drivetrain and Simplicity
As the name suggests, the Stormchaser is a single-speed bike, embracing the ethos of simplicity. The absence of gears and derailleurs means fewer components that could potentially fail or require maintenance. This simplicity translates to a lighter bike and a more direct connection between rider and machine. For those who appreciate a straightforward, fuss-free ride, the single-speed setup is a significant advantage.
The 42-tooth chainring paired with an 18-tooth cog offers a versatile gear ratio that is well-suited for varied gravel terrains. While the single-speed configuration may not be ideal for steep climbs or exceptionally varied gradients, it excels on rolling hills and flat sections, providing a consistent and smooth pedaling experience.
Tires and Wheels
The Stormchaser comes equipped with wide 700c x 42mm Teravail Cannonball tires, designed specifically for gravel riding. These tires offer excellent traction and stability, ensuring a confident ride on loose gravel, dirt paths, and even rough pavements. The tubeless-ready feature allows for lower tire pressures, further enhancing comfort and grip while reducing the risk of punctures.
The wheels are robust and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of gravel biking. The rims are tubeless-compatible, providing the flexibility to switch to a tubeless setup if desired. This feature is particularly useful for riders who frequently venture off the beaten path, as it reduces the likelihood of flats and enhances overall ride quality.
Comfort and Handling
One of the standout features of the Stormchaser is its focus on comfort. The bike's geometry, combined with its wide tires and carbon fork, absorbs a significant amount of road vibrations, ensuring a smoother ride on rough surfaces. The handlebars are designed for ergonomic comfort, allowing for multiple hand positions to reduce fatigue on long rides.
Handling is where the Stormchaser truly shines. The bike's stability and responsiveness make it a joy to ride on challenging terrains. The precise steering and balanced weight distribution provide a sense of control and confidence, even on technical sections. This bike is well-suited for both experienced gravel riders and those new to the discipline.
Additional Features
The Stormchaser is equipped with numerous mounts for racks and accessories, making it a versatile choice for bikepacking and long-distance adventures. The frame can accommodate multiple bottle cages, frame bags, and other gear, allowing riders to customize their setup according to their needs.
The bike also features hydraulic disc brakes, offering reliable stopping power in all weather conditions. This is a critical feature for gravel riding, where sudden stops and descents require dependable braking performance.
Conclusion
The 2020 Stormchaser Single Speed is a standout choice for gravel enthusiasts seeking a minimalist, reliable, and robust bike. Its durable build, comfortable geometry, and straightforward single-speed setup make it an ideal companion for tackling gravel roads and embarking on adventurous rides. While it may not be suited for extremely hilly terrains, its performance on varied gravel paths and its low-maintenance nature make it a compelling option for those who value simplicity and reliability. Whether you're a seasoned gravel rider or a newcomer looking for a dependable and enjoyable ride, the Stormchaser is sure to impress.
2. Felt Breed Single Speed 55cm Cyclocross Bike Gravel
The Felt Breed Single Speed 55cm Cyclocross Gravel Bike is an excellent choice for riders seeking a versatile and high-performance bike that excels in both cyclocross and gravel riding. This bike combines the simplicity of a single-speed drivetrain with the advanced features of modern bike design, making it a standout option for enthusiasts and serious cyclists alike.
Design and Build Quality
The Felt Breed Single Speed is built around a lightweight and durable aluminum frame, which ensures a perfect balance between strength and agility. The frame's geometry is optimized for cyclocross, providing a responsive and stable ride on various terrains. The bike is equipped with a full carbon fork, which not only reduces the overall weight but also enhances vibration damping, making for a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
The bike’s 55cm size is ideal for riders with a height range of approximately 5'8" to 5'11", ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic riding position. The sleek and minimalist design is complemented by internal cable routing, which not only enhances the bike's aesthetics but also protects the cables from dirt and debris, prolonging their lifespan.
Performance and Handling
One of the key features of the Felt Breed Single Speed is its single-speed drivetrain. This setup is perfect for riders who appreciate the simplicity and low maintenance of a single gear. It is particularly beneficial for cyclocross racing, where quick and precise gear changes are less critical compared to road racing. The single-speed drivetrain also contributes to the bike's overall lightness, allowing for quick acceleration and nimble handling.
The bike is fitted with 700c wheels, which are versatile enough to handle both cyclocross and gravel riding. These wheels provide a good balance between speed and stability, making the Felt Breed suitable for a wide range of riding conditions. The inclusion of 29er tires further enhances the bike's capability to tackle rough and uneven terrains with ease, offering excellent traction and control.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is a crucial factor for any bike, especially for cyclocross and gravel riding where riders often face challenging conditions. The Felt Breed Single Speed excels in this area, thanks to its thoughtfully designed frame and carbon fork that effectively absorb shocks and vibrations. The bike’s saddle and handlebars are ergonomically designed to provide maximum comfort during long rides, reducing fatigue and enhancing the overall riding experience.
Components and Features
The Felt Breed Single Speed comes equipped with high-quality components that ensure reliability and performance. The bike features powerful disc brakes, which provide excellent stopping power and control in all weather conditions. This is particularly important for cyclocross racing, where riders often encounter muddy and slippery surfaces.
The bike also includes a set of durable and lightweight wheels, which are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. The tubeless-ready rims allow for easy conversion to a tubeless setup, providing additional puncture protection and improved ride quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable aluminum frame
- Full carbon fork for enhanced comfort and performance
- Single-speed drivetrain for simplicity and low maintenance
- Versatile 700c wheels with 29er tires for excellent traction
- Powerful disc brakes for reliable stopping power
- Ergonomically designed for comfort on long rides
Cons:
- Single-speed drivetrain may not be suitable for all terrains and riding styles
- Limited to one gear, which can be challenging on steep climbs
Conclusion
The Felt Breed Single Speed 55cm Cyclocross Bike is an outstanding choice for cyclists who value simplicity, durability, and performance. Its lightweight frame, carbon fork, and single-speed drivetrain make it a versatile and reliable option for both cyclocross and gravel riding. While it may not be suitable for every rider or terrain, those who appreciate the benefits of a single-speed setup will find the Felt Breed to be an exceptional bike that delivers a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience.
Hello Guys! I am John Reese, a professional biker and my hobby is biking! I have been biking for last 10 years and I love using bikes while outing as well. Based on my experiences with the different type of bikes (mountain bikes, road bikes and hybrid bikes); I am sharing my opinion about various bikes so that a beginner can get started right away. Happy reading!