KTM Gravelator Elite Review: Among the new KTM gravel bikes, the Elite is one of the more affordable models. This doesn't stop the Austrian manufacturer from incorporating features like a carbon wheelset, however. It goes without saying that this also results in a very light weight.
Things are happening at KTM: While the gravel bike range was quite limited a few years ago and focused on inexpensive aluminum models, there is now a whole armada of sporty carbon models, starting from just €1.999 are available in euros. Prices have also dropped in the aluminum segment – here you can get a bike with Shimano Cues 1x11 for as little as €1.199. The KTM Gravelator Elite costs exactly twice as much, and for that sum you get a considerable amount of carbon fiber. The in-house carbon wheelset, with 35 mm deep rims and an internal width of 25 mm, is particularly intriguing, and it should weigh just under 1.600 grams – very unusual in this price range.
KTM Gravelator Elite: the highlights
- Carbon gravel bike with excellent value for money
- Relatively low weight: 9,67 kg without pedals
- High-quality carbon wheelset, weighing approximately 1.600 grams
- Solid, functional Shimano GRX components
Ready to ride, with pedals and bottle cage, the KTM weighs almost exactly ten kilograms, which is a good figure considering the affordable price; converting to tubeless tires can save another 200 grams or so. A look at its sister model, the Gravelator Prime with SRAM Rival 1x13, which the manufacturer claims is one kilogram lighter, demonstrates the full potential of the carbon frame. A weight-optimized version of the frameset is available for the top-of-the-line Gravelator Exonic, which should save several hundred grams.
Both versions of the frame feature a storage compartment in the downtube. Its opening is positioned relatively high – normally the flap is located at the level of the bottle cage. Since the Gravelator's downtube isn't very wide, the opening is also rather narrow; access isn't entirely straightforward, as the opening mechanism is somewhat fiddly. A pump, CO2 cartridge, inner tube, and tire levers are typical items to be stored there. im Frame, am The frame can accommodate two bottle cages, a top tube bag, fork mounts, and mudguards. It also allows for the installation of tires up to 50 mm wide.
Aerodynamic design and successful details
The new KTM carbon frame impresses with its aerodynamic design, evident in the fork's integration and the transition from the seat tube to the chainstays. The integrated seat clamp is easy to use and looks much more elegant than a simple clamp. And last but not least, KTM has given the new carbon model a decidedly sporty setup: the head tube is short, the top tube long, resulting in an aggressive riding position, which is somewhat softened by the short stem. This, combined with the slack head angle, creates a pleasantly agile feel, which, along with the relatively low weight of the wheels and the perceived high frame stiffness, contributes to a very positive riding experience.
Functional GMX mix
As is typical in this price range, the KTM features a mix of different Shimano GRX components: GRX-RX822 rear derailleur, RX610 shifters and crankset, and RX400 brake calipers. The 610 shift/brake levers now have the same rubber grips as the higher-end version, and functionally, there's practically no noticeable difference. With a 10-51 cassette, the gear range is enormous, although the two-tooth jumps in the higher gears aren't quite ideal.
The new Maxxis Reaver HYPR-X is definitely a good choice, offering plenty of damping volume with its 45 mm width and demonstrating low rolling resistance in independent tests. The Maxxis is by no means just a placeholder for a high-quality aftermarket tire. This further illustrates how uncompromisingly the new KTM Gravelator is designed for optimal value for money: the only thing one could wish for is a carbon seatpost, which would save another 100 to 150 grams and improve vibration damping.
