Gravel bikes have become a must-have among cyclists. The fanbase is continuously growing. At the "IAA MOBILITY" 2023, we took a closer look at the most important trends surrounding this topic.
Over the past few years, the gravel bike has transformed from a niche product to one of the most popular types of bicycles. Originally conceived as a "middle ground" between road and mountain bikes, gravel bikes now have their own distinct identity. An ever-growing fanbase swears by these stylish all-rounders.
However, gravel enthusiasts don't just love the bikes for their versatile capabilities. Compared to traditional road bikes, gravel bikes offer a slightly elevated and more relaxed position. This not only enhances riding comfort over long distances and rough terrain but also reduces strain on the neck and shoulders. Additionally, this positioning provides better visibility and control, especially on technically challenging sections. Comfort is further amplified by advancements in suspension systems. Especially when using the gravel bike with narrower tires and predominantly off-road use, this has a positive impact on the riding experience.
A significant trend continues to be fully integrated solutions, from handlebar stems with internally routed cables to smartly integrated storage options for tools or snacks. New luggage systems for gravel bikes are not only lightweight and durable but also modular. Bikepacking bags can be combined, and thanks to various attachment options, they can be fixed at different frame positions. The latest technological solutions include smart lights integrated into the frame. There's also a lot happening with the gear systems: in addition to mechanical shifts tailored for gravel biking, electronic shifting systems are gaining importance. Gravel bikes aren't just about off-road adventures. Many new models are designed for both daily commutes in the city and multi-day bikepacking tours. Fans of the versatile bike can look forward to an ever-growing range of packing bags and their respective manufacturers.
The gravel bike trend topics for 23/24 are all about versatility. It's clear: gravel has firmly established itself as its own category. The industry has recognized the trend. Technology and comfort will be more closely linked in the future to provide gravel enthusiasts with the ultimate riding experience. Thanks to numerous innovations and developments, exciting times lie ahead for gravel bike enthusiasts.
Rethink everything you thought you knew about gravel biking. The new aero-inspired Fuji Jari Carbon Gravelbike edefines "versatility," making (almost) everything possible. In developing the new Jari Carbon, a focus was placed on luggage compatibility. Highlights include a snack holder on the top tube, an extended bottom bracket area providing ample space for water bottles and a frame bag, as well as an optional tool box located beneath the bottom bracket. The frame has many attachment points for water bottle holders or luggage. Plus, there are eyelets for mudguards and a luggage rack. The fork offset can be adjusted via a "flip chip" to match individual preferences. Cables are internally routed, giving the bike a sleek look.
The Jari Carbon is available in two versions: The Jari Carbon 1.1 (MSRP €3,499) comes equipped with a Shimano GRX 2x11-speed groupset, Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes, and 40mm Maxxis Rambler tires. The second configuration, the Jari Carbon 1.3 (MSRP €2,999), features a Shimano GRX 1x11-speed groupset. Both versions are available in five frame sizes.
Best performance without strain on both road and gravel – that's what the Ergon SR Allroad Core Pro offers. The specially designed Infinergy® core ensures maximum shock absorption on rough trails without compromising on rider feedback. The patented CORE HD construction reduces seating pressure and minimizes vibrations. Combined with its ergonomic shape, which, by relieving pressure on the perineal area, prevents numbness even in sporty riding positions, the Ergon SR Allroad Core Pro ensures the perfect balance between optimal cushioning and peak performance - thanks to reduced muscle fatigue and increased freedom of movement. World traveler Jonas Deichmann rode the saddle over 15,000 kilometers and is thrilled: "What I like most is that after 10 hours on the saddle, I can get on my bike the next day and not feel like I was cycling the day before."
The newly developed frame of the GravelX features an Air Bow Carbon fork tailored to the demands of gravel sports, as well as sleek lines reminiscent of the frame shapes of BH's top road bike models Ultralight and Aerolight. With a frame weight of just about 1050g and the fork weighing 380g, the GravelX is race-ready, depending on the configuration. The innovative rear with its SRS Anti-Vibration system offers high seating comfort, reducing fatigue caused by vibrations on long rides and conserving the frame material. An integrated frame protector in the downtube serves two purposes: protecting against stone chipping and providing a discreet storage compartment where you can stow a CO₂ cartridge, mini pump, or spare inner tube. Premium Shimano GRX groups, top models with Di2, and a choice of 1x or 2x setups provide riders with the right bike for various applications. Currently, the price range for the GravelX Carbon varies from €3,299.90 to €6,299.90, with the top model equipped with a Fox suspension fork.
The state-of-the-art frame set made of T800 carbon fibers boasts cutting-edge features like fully internally routed shift cables and brake lines, giving the BENOTTI FUOCO Gravel a strikingly tidy and highly sporty appearance. However, it also offers numerous options for attaching accessories such as racks, permanent mudguards, and bags. Awarded the Best-of 2023 medal by World of MTB, the gravel bike is equipped with premium components like the SRAM Force/XX1 Eagle AXS groupset, which, with its "mullet" configuration, provides a wide gear range. This makes tackling tough climbs a breeze with the BENOTTI FUOCO Gravel. The sporty yet balanced riding position, possible tire widths up to 45mm, and the in-house brand engage's wind-tunnel-tested 35mm carbon wheels combine smooth rolling and lightness. This makes the BENOTTI FUOCO Gravel the perfect all-rounder for spontaneous evening rides and long bikepacking adventures with friends. The Gravel is also available with various groupsets from SRAM and Shimano.
Innovative solutions, strong performance and a focus on sustainability in sports equipment characterize our nine ISPO Award winners. From the safety aspect to peak performance, from perfect preparation to the day of decision: This equipment helps you get the best out of yourself.
The Authentic Snow Collection by Bosideng was developed specifically for the booming but still young Chinese snowsports market. But the innovative, modular concept brings a breath of fresh air to any young winter sports styles and also serves other aspects that are becoming increasingly important for consumers worldwide: Versatility and sustainability.
The collection consists of a total of four pieces, from which a total of ten different looks can be created for different requirements. These pieces include ski hoodies, down vests and various shell jackets. Depending on how the pieces are combined with each other, the outfits are suitable for other applications - from indoor and outdoor skiing to cross-country skiing. Moreover, they can be used to create functional outdoor looks that can be worn all year round on different occasions.
For example, the Authenic#0 Ski Hoodie can be used as a fashionable basic for commuting in the city or skiing indoors in temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C. Combining the hoodie with the Authenic#0.5 Insulated Vest increases warmth by 5°C. Against low temperatures with up to -20°C one is armed with the Authenic#2 Technical Performance Down Puffer Jacket, which in turn can be converted into a vest. As professional ski jackets, this jacket and the Authenic#1 Technical Jacket are equipped with Windstopper materials from Gore-Tex Labs, which are windproof and water-repellent. Combining Authenic#1, Authenic#0.5 and Authenic#2, even extreme cold above -30°C is no longer a problem for skiers and outdoor adventurers.
Not everyone who wants to try winter sports is willing or able to buy the necessary equipment. With the Authentic Snow Collection, Bosideng aims to make it easier to get started by developing a clothing system that is just as suitable for skiing in different environments as it is for normal everyday life in the city or for other outdoor activities. Moreover, Authentic Snow Collection will be an ideal choice to support your snow sports’ courses of growth. Consumers can upgrade and customize products from this collection depending on their level of skiing, even for cross-country skiing. From beginner to pro, that's the core message Bosideng wants to convey with this Authentic Snow Collection.
The detail-oriented design with functional elements also fits beautifully with the current Gorpcore style, which combines streetwear and sportswear with camping and hiking outfit components, and according to trend analysts, is more than just a short fashion stunt.
When it comes to material selection, Bosideng relies on Gore-Tex and Sorona. Bosideng has worked with both partners to develop an exclusive windstopper that incorporates 38 percent bio-based fiber material by integrating the Sorona fiber. Sorona has a natural 3D spiral structure that allows for some elasticity and is more than twice as soft as polyester fibers of the same size, making the material particularly comfortable. In addition, the material has been treated with a bio-based water repellent finish (DWR). This renewable finish was developed based on vegetable waste.
Ultimately, the goal is to be equipped for as many winter sports activities as possible with the modular, coordinated clothing base. This is linked to the goal of preventing excessive consumption. High-quality materials are intended to ensure that the clothing lasts a long time.
The two-piece down jacket by Bosideng combines the best of different worlds: Fashion and function, city and outdoor. The jacket consists of two layers that are perfectly matched and can be worn together or separately. The target audience is the city’s leisure outdoor consumers who are looking for a balance between fashion and function.
Especially since the pandemic, the general interest in outdoor activities has increased worldwide - and with it the group of people who want to equip themselves for leisure outdoor activities has become broader. This has an impact on the look, as not everyone can identify with the typical style of outdoor collections. With the Lightweight 2Pieces Down Jacket, Bosideng has developed a versatile product that wants to appeal to this new target group.
The jacket consists of two fully-fledged single jackets. The outer shell jacket is made of 100 percent recycled Windstopper material from Gore-Tex Labs, whose windproof and water-repellent properties provide good weather protection. This material allows for high breathability, too. For more warmth, this layer has also been equipped with Bosideng's "down-mapping" technology, whereby lightweight down fillings are modularly targeted to the areas of the body that need more insulation. The backing of the outer jacket is made of 100 percent merino wool, into which individual down modules have been embedded. Merino wool can absorb moisture quickly to keep the body cool and dry during moderate to high intensity activities. This allows for material and weight savings while providing the right amount of warmth.
The inner layer consists of a lightweight down jacket with elastic side panels that keep you comfortable and reduce bulk. For even more breathability and improved temperature regulation, laser ventilation holes have been incorporated on the underarms of the inner and outer layers, as well as on the back shoulder area.
Worn together or separately, the two jackets cover a wide range of uses and are the perfect gear for changeable weather and travel. The jacket is available for men and women.
The jacket is made of 100 percent recycled Windstopper fabric from Gore-Tex Labs, certified by bluesign. In addition, the down comes from farms certified with the Responsible Down Standard (RDS).
If you want to venture into inhospitable climatic regions while mountaineering, you have to rely on first-class, highly functional material - especially when it comes to clothing. With its Qomolangma III down suit, Bosideng has succeeded in saving weight and volume without compromising on robustness and heat retention. The issue of sustainability has not been ignored either.
In high-altitude mountaineering, every gram counts when muscle strength also decreases at icy altitudes as oxygen levels drop. That's why Bosideng paid special attention to improved weight with high functionality when developing the Qomolangma III one-piece. At just 1575 grams, the one-piece is about 20 percent lighter and slimmer than comparable products on the market, but still offers excellent thermal management.
This was made possible primarily by the extensive use of 20D recycled Cordura for the outer layer and 7D 100% polyamide for the lining. No compromises were made in terms of windproofness, water repellency and durability.
Bosideng has implemented innovative solutions in the construction of the one-piece garment. For example, the long-standing specialist in the production of down jackets has designed the down chambers in a novel, uneven structure. Particular attention was paid to the knees and hips to prevent cooling due to cold wind and contact.
The design allows for a smaller pack size: the extra space between the boxes reduces the compression volume of the down suit by 20 percent, making it easier to wear and pack for climbers.
In addition, the material has been equipped with Schoeller energear technology. energear consists of a titanium-mineral matrix. Textiles that are equipped or printed with energear return far-infrared rays to the body. The energy thus gained can have a positive effect on the body and provides additional warmth, even during sleep. Nevertheless, the breathability of the material is maintained.
Thus equipped, the down suit is perfect for high-altitude mountaineers, polar adventurers and explorers.
And how does Bosideng take into account the issue of sustainability, which of course must not be neglected in products for extreme applications? Here, Bosideng relies on down that is certified with the Responsible Down Standard (RDS). In addition, recycled Cordura and bluesign-certified lining were used. A repair kit is also part of the product scope: here, fabric scraps were turned into patches to extend the life cycle of the product.