Step-by-Step: Building Your Own Gravel Bike from Scratch

You’ve got that itch, don’t you? That burning desire to find a bike as untamed as the trails calling your name. Trust me, I understand that yearning all too well. Like a true trail companion, I’ve combed through every nook and cranny to gather the pieces for the perfect gravel grinder.

Consider this article your treasure map to assembling a loyal ride that’s uniquely yours. Ready to roll? Because adventure doesn’t like to wait!

Key Takeaways:

• Building a gravel bike is about choosing parts that match your riding style, whether for racing or casual rides.
  
• You can turn an old road or mountain bike into a gravel grinder by swapping out tires, improving the brakes, and changing the handlebars.
  
• Make sure to pick the right frame size for comfort and adjust things like gears and wheelsets based on the terrain you’ll be riding on.
  
• Comfortable seats and handlebars are important for long rides on mixed surfaces.
  
• Personalize your gravel bike with accessories like bags for gear and a unique paint job to stand out.

Popular Gravel Bike Frame Sizes and Recommendations:

Frame Size (cm)	Rider Height Range (cm)	Suitable Riding Style
50	160-170	Racing, Speed
54	170-180	Versatile, All-Terrain
58	180-190	Comfort, Long Rides
61	190 and above	Stability, Tough Trails

Understanding the Basics of a Gravel Bike:

So now we’ve kicked things off, let’s dive into what makes a gravel bike special. These bikes are like the Swiss Army knives of cycling – they handle well on different surfaces, from smooth pavement to rocky trails.

Gravel bikes stand out with their sturdy frames and wider tires that grip onto loose dirt better than skinny road bike tires do. They often come with disc brakes that provide strong stopping power, even in mud or rain.

Gravel riding calls for comfort over long distances and varied terrain. The frame geometry of these bikes is usually relaxed, allowing you to sit more upright compared to a racing bike.

This means less strain on your back and arms when you’re bouncing along country roads or cruising uphill. Plus, they’ve got space for all sorts of gear — from extra water bottles to bikepacking bags — so you can take everything you need for adventure right with you.

Key Factors to Consider in Building a Gravel Bike:

When venturing into building your own gravel bike, diving deep into the key factors is crucial for tailoring your rig to perfection.

It’s all about zooming in on how you’ll conquer those winding trails—whether it’s racing heartbeat-fast or just cruising with ease, not forgetting that sweet spot in frame geometry and size that makes every ride a perfect fit for adventure.

Components/Considerations	Importance	Suggested Options
Frame Geometry	Critical	Varies based on terrain and riding style. Examples: Relaxed geometry for comfort, Racing geometry for speed.
Cockpit Setup	Important	Wide drop bars for maneuverability, Short stem for responsiveness.
Drivetrain Selection	Crucial	1x or 2x drivetrain based on terrain and riding preferences. Example: 1x for simplicity, 2x for versatility.
Seat & Seatpost	Vital	Seatpost with suitable flex, Comfortable seat matching the rider’s anatomy.
Wheels and Tires	Key	Two sets of wheels for different terrains, Tubeless tires for fewer flats.
Pack Selection	Significant	Matched to riding purpose, Example: Racing or touring-oriented packs.

Terrain Use-Case:

I need to think about where I’ll ride my gravel bike. Some paths are smooth and easy, while others are rough and tough. If I plan to roll over rocky trails, my bike needs strong tires that can handle sharp stones without getting a puncture.

For muddy or loose dirt tracks, wide tires with good grip make sure I don’t slip and slide around.

Choosing the right frame is key too. A sturdy frame helps me tackle bumpy rides with confidence. But it's not just about strength; comfort matters as well. The frame should let me stay relaxed on long rides across different surfaces – from hard roads to soft paths.

My adventures might take me anywhere, so building a gravel bike that suits all kinds of terrain is super important!

Riding Purpose- Racing or Casual Riding:

If I want to race on gravel, I choose a bike that feels quick and sharp. Gravel race bikes are often set up like road racers with drop-bars for speed. The riding position is lower for cutting through wind fast.

Parts like chainrings and cassettes match this need for pace.

But maybe I’m all about relaxed rides, enjoying trails at my own speed. Then, my gravel bike looks different. It gives me an upright posture which means more comfort during long trips.

When building casual riding bikes, the focus is less on racing parts and more on sturdy gear that lasts on any path.

Preferred Geometry:

Gravel bikes need to be steady and comfy, especially if I’m riding on bumpy paths. The bike’s geometry is super important for this. It means how the bike is shaped and sized. A good gravel bike has a longer wheelbase; that’s the distance between the wheels.

This helps keep it stable when I’m zooming down trails or across rocky ground.

The height of the ride also matters a lot. If my gravel bike sits just right, not too high or low off the ground, I can handle it better when things get tricky on rough terrain. Plus, with a well-set trail—which is all about how my front wheel steers—I can control my bike easily even when there are lots of twists and turns on my path.

What Size Gravel Bike Frame Do I Need?

Choosing the right size for my gravel bike frame is super important. It helps me ride comfortably and handle the bike well. Most brands measure frames by the seat tube length, just like road bikes do.

I look at these measurements in centimeters to find what fits me best.

Picking a frame that matches my body type makes all the difference on long rides or rough trails. Gravel bikes come in lots of sizes so different riders can find one that works for them.

The unique shape and design of a gravel bike are things I keep in mind when I choose my frame size to make sure it’s perfect for me.

Steps to Build Your Own Gravel Bike

So, you’re ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of crafting your dream gravel grinder?

The journey from parts to pavement is thrilling – I’ll walk you through each careful step it takes to transform components and elbow grease into a bespoke machine that’s all grit and no quit.

Let’s get our hands dirty!

Deep Cleaning:

I grab my garden hose or power washer to start the deep cleaning of my gravel bike. I make sure to have warm soapy water and a bike stand ready. For that tough dirt on the chain, I use a special chain cleaning device.

It gets everything out! After soaking and scrubbing, it’s rinse time. Then comes the degreaser — Bio Chain Cleaner works wonders for me. Once dry, I check and lubricate each brake carefully.

Avoiding direct sunlight makes sure nothing dries too fast or unevenly. As I work, keeping things gentle is key; no harsh sprays directly on bearings or seals. Now with every part shining clean, it’s time to dive into sorting those bearings, which can really determine how smooth my ride will be.

Sorting the Bearings:

So, let’s talk about the bearings in your gravel bike build. Sorting them out is key for a smooth ride. You’ll want to tackle this early on when turning an old mountain bike into a gravel bike.

Good bearings mean less friction and more fun on those long trails.

First, take apart the hubs, bottom bracket, and headset to get to the bearings. Clean each piece carefully, removing all the dirt and grime that’s built up over time. Replace any worn-out bearings with fresh ones—the smoother they roll, the easier your pedaling will be.

Trust me; you’ll feel the difference as soon as you hit the road—or rather, the gravel!

Replacing Cables and Housing:

I like to make sure my gravel bike shifts smoothly and brakes quickly. That’s why I replace cables and housing when they get old or look worn out. New cables can really help both the rear derailleur and front derailleur do their jobs better.

Here’s how I do it: First, I carefully remove the old cables from the brake levers and derailleurs. Then, I measure them against new ones to cut the right length. Next, I thread the new cables through the correct housing—choosing a color that makes my bike pop! It’s important to grease them slightly so they move easily.

After that, I attach everything back in place, adjust for tension, and test ride to ensure everything works just right. Trust me; this little change makes a big difference on rough trails!

Improving the Braking System:

Upgrading to disc brakes is a smart move for my gravel bike. They provide better control and stopping power, especially on loose surfaces. To make sure they work well, I adjust the brakes properly.

This step is crucial because it ensures safety and performance when I’m out riding.

To boost brake performance even more, I ride my bike to get up some speed, then squeeze the brakes firmly a few times in a row. Doing this helps the disc brake pads and rotors work together better.

It’s a good tip that makes each ride smoother and safer.

Swapping the Tires:

To turn my road bike into a gravel grinder, I swap out the skinny tires for something much wider. Wider tires mean better grip and comfort on rough paths. They soak up bumps and help me keep control when the ground gets loose.

I go for gravel-specific tires that can handle rocky trails without giving up too much speed.

These new tires are key to tackling different terrains with confidence. With them, I also think about having two sets of wheels ready: one for smooth roads with a lighter setup and another with tough gears suited for gravel adventures.

Now that the tires are sorted, it’s time to tweak the handlebars for the perfect ride feel.

Changing the Handlebars:

Swapping the handlebars on my gravel bike was a game-changer. It really changed how the bike felt and handled. I picked out bars that fit me just right, making sure they were comfy for my arms and hands.

I had to adjust the levers so they matched on both sides, which took some time but was well worth it.

I also kept an eye on costs because new handlebars can add up quick in price. Researching parts and figuring out what works best was key before making any big changes. The style of handlebars influences how you control your bike, so it’s smart to think about this when choosing them.

In the end, getting those bars just right made all my rides feel better!

Adding Necessary Accessories:

I make sure my gravel bike has the right add-ons for a smooth ride. Gearing is key – it lets me climb hills easily and race down them with speed. I pick wheels that can handle rough paths and tires that grip the ground without slipping.

Tubeless setups are my go-to since they lower the chance of flats, which means fewer stops to fix them.

On long trips, I always strap on a puncture repair kit and extra inner tubes in case of emergencies. For gear, I attach bags or panniers so I can carry food, water, and tools. And don’t forget a bottle cage; staying hydrated is super important! Next up is tweaking the bike frame to fit me perfectly.

Modifying the Frame:

To get the best out of my gravel bike, I need to tweak the frame. This means I’m looking for ways to fit the biggest tires possible. Why? Because when you’re riding over bumpy and unpredictable surfaces, larger tires absorb more shock and give better grip.

So, changing parts like the dropouts might be necessary to have enough space for those chunky tires.

Adjusting how my bike sits on the road – that’s ride height – is another crucial part of this process. It can change how stable my bike feels and help me handle tricky paths better.

With options like gravel suspension forks available, I consider what will work best for where I plan to ride. Plus, keeping an eye on things like chainstays length makes sure that adding all these new features won’t mess with how my bike rides or fits me.

Applying a Fresh Coat of Paint:

Once the frame is just how I want it, painting gives my gravel bike that personal touch. I make sure to clean the frame with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free towel for a bare surface.

Then, with paints like Spray.Bike, it’s fun to give my old MTB turned gravel bike a vibrant look. Since rocks might chip the paint on bumpy rides, I cover the downtube to keep it looking sharp.

This step isn’t just about looks—it affects performance too. And when I’m done? My gravel bike has a unique style all its own!

The Ultimate Gravel Bike Build:

Now, let’s talk about crafting the pinnacle of gravel bikes – this is where we combine premium components with tailored personal preferences to create an unstoppable ride. Imagine a machine that meshes seamlessly with your every movement, built piece by precise piece to conquer any trail..

That’s what we’re diving into next.

STEP 1- Choosing the Right Frame:

Picking a good frame is like choosing the best shoes for a hike. It’s got to fit well and suit your adventure. I look at the gravel bike’s geometry, checking out things like trail, wheelbase, and ride height.

This tells me if the bike will be steady on rough trails or quick and nimble for racing. For those long days in the saddle over mixed terrain, comfort comes first.

A sturdy frameset that can handle rocky paths is key since mountain bikes taught us toughness matters in rough spots. But don’t get confused; gravel bikes have their own style with different angles and tires made just right for unpaved roads.

Frame size makes all the difference too—no one wants their knees knocking on the top-tube or reaching too far down to peddle comfortably!

STEP 2- Setting up the Cockpit:

I love tweaking my bike’s cockpit – that’s where the handlebars, stem, and all the bits you touch come into play. It’s not just about looks; it’s where comfort meets control. Wide drop bars like on some touring bikes give me plenty of room to maneuver, especially when I’m bouncing over rocky trails.

And a shorter stem? That keeps things feeling snappy and responsive, just like a mountain biker prefers.

It really matters how I set these parts up because they shape how my gravel bike rides and feels. Whether I’m aiming for speed in gravel racing or looking for comfort during cross-country trips, getting the right combo is key.

Next step? Selecting the drivetrain that matches my riding style..

STEP 3- Selecting the Drivetrain:

Choosing the right drivetrain for my gravel bike was a big decision. It really shapes how the bike performs and feels on different terrains. Most gravel bikes use either a 1x or 2x drivetrain — this means one or two chainrings in the front.

I thought about where I’d ride my bike. If I faced lots of hills, maybe an ultra-low gear setup would help.

I also matched the drivetrain to what kind of riding I like. Some people might want that simple 1x system for its ease of use, especially if they’re not racing or doing super tough rides.

But others might go for a 2x with more gears to pick from — that can be great for keeping speed in races or handling all sorts of paths and adventures. My choice had to mix well with my style, whether it’s going fast, tackling long trails, or just having fun out there on any road.

STEP 4- Choosing the Seat & Seatpost:

I make sure my seat and seatpost match my gravel riding style. For long rides, comfort is key, so I look for a seatpost with the right flex to keep up with my pedaling rhythm. Seatposts come in materials like carbon or aluminum.

Carbon can offer more comfort but may cost more.

A good fit matters too – not all seats are the same! I check the length of the seatpost; they range from around 75mm to over 400mm. Finding the perfect one means a smoother ride on bumpy trails.

There’s no one-size-fits-all here – each rider is unique just like their gravel bike!

STEP 5- Deciding on the Wheels:

Wheels make a huge difference in how my gravel bike rides. I look for the best wheelsets that give me a smooth ride, good grip, and fast movement on bumpy roads. Sometimes, I have two sets of wheels: one for rough trails and one for smoother paths.

This way, changing from off-road adventures to cruising on pavement isn’t tough.

I pay attention to wheel size and tire type. Tubeless tyres are amazing because they don’t get flats as often as regular ones do. But if I’m riding where sharp rocks might be, thicker tires with strong protection work better.

It’s all about matching the wheels to my riding style and where I plan to go biking!

Popular Wheel Sizes and Tire Types for Gravel Bikes:

Wheel Size	Tire Type	Terrain Suitability
700c	Tubeless	Versatile, suitable for mixed terrain
650b	Knobby, Wide Tires	Excellent grip on rough trails
29er	Gravel-specific Tread	Smooth performance on various surfaces

STEP 6- Selecting the Right Pack:

Now that we’ve got the wheels ready, it’s time to focus on putting together the right pack for our gravel bike. This means choosing parts that match what I want from my bike. Do I plan to race or just enjoy a calm ride? The answer helps me pick everything from frames to handlebars.

For my perfect gravel bike, all these parts need to work together well. A good frame is strong and feels right when I ride. My cockpit, where the steering happens, should let me control the bike easily.

I’ll pick a drivetrain that can handle rough trails without breaking down. Comfort matters too, so a nice seat and post are important – they make long rides better! Lastly, picking tough wheels that roll over anything is key for any adventure on my bike.

Choosing each part takes time but it’s exciting too – creating a gravel bike that’s truly mine!

Final Thought:

Building your own gravel bike is a great way to get the perfect ride. You choose each part to fit your style and needs. It’s fun to pick the frame, wheels, and accessories that are just right for you.

Once you finish, you’ll have a bike no one else has. Get ready for an amazing adventure on a bike you made yourself!

To ensure you get the perfect fit for your gravel biking adventures, check out our guide on what size gravel bike frame you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What's the first step to building a gravel bike?

Start with the frame; look for one with a top tube and down tube that give you enough space to ride comfortably over rough ground.

Can I use mountain biking parts on my gravel bike?

Sure! Mountain bike components, like a sturdy chainset or durable rear derailleurs, can work well for your gravel adventure.

Is it cool to pick road biking gear too?

Absolutely—think about adding slicker tyres or compact cranksets from road bikes for speed on those long, straight stretches.

What kind of brakes should I go for?

Consider v-brakes or cantilever brakes—they offer strong stopping power and are perfect for mixed terrain rides.

How do I make my ride more comfy on bumpy trails?

Think about installing a dropper seatpost—this lets you easily change your saddle height while you’re out riding, making trail-riding smoother.