List of the best gravel bikes up to 4.000 euros - model year 2022: Lots of choice in the middle price range
Gravel bikes up to 4.000 euros in the test: A cheap bike can be worth it
Attractive gravel bikes in different categories are available for very little money - from racing bikes to bikepacking models. Of course, from almost 1.500 to around 4.000 euros, the differences are big: here the solid entry-level model with rather simple parts, there a high-end frame with very high-quality components grab - solid material is already available from just under 1.500 euros. If you start out in this price range, you can always upgrade the components or the wheelset later - assuming you have a quality frame, you can't go wrong with a cheap bike.
In the price range around 2.000 euros you will find noticeably better material across the board. Here the aluminum frames are already combined with carbon forks, and many manufacturers already specify high-quality shifting groups à la Shimano GRX with 2×10/2×11 or 1×11 gears. Hydraulic brakes are also standard in this category. A gravel bike of this quality hardly differs functionally from significantly more expensive models, but is heavier, which does not necessarily have to bother you depending on the intended use. For example, if you go bikepacking and attach your luggage to your bike, you won’t be bothered by the slightly higher weight that the frame, wheels and components bring with you.
Gravel bikes up to 4.000 euros tested: carbon – yes or no?
However, the weight does have an effect, especially when used for sport, and this is where the hour of the carbon frame comes in. A gravel frame made from the fiber material weighs around 1.200 grams, a whopping pound less than an aluminum frame; In addition, there is usually the weight advantage of high-quality components such as those used in the carbon class. Depending on the manufacturer, entry into the world of carbon starts at between 2.500 and 3.000 euros, sometimes significantly more. With bicycles in this price range, the components are of course also of high quality; for example, you can assume lighter wheels that can be ridden with tubeless tires. And last but not least, the model range is usually wider, which means more choice in the groupsets.
How expensive a complete bike is depends of course on the frame set, and here there are extreme differences between the manufacturers: Sometimes the frame and fork are offered for well under 2.000 euros, sometimes for over 3.000 euros. Such price differences are often not reflected in driving behavior, weight or other characteristics; similarly equipped gravel bikes from different suppliers can be priced extremely differently without it being clear why. This is particularly noticeable in the price range between 3.000 and 4.000 euros. However, anyone who wants to invest such a sum usually also has individual requirements and preferences with regard to the brand – and will be happy to pay the additional price of a renowned manufacturer.
Gravel bikes up to 4.000 euros in the test: it depends on the area of application!
As far as frame geometry and equipment are concerned, the price is usually not the decisive factor - rather the product philosophy of the respective supplier. Some bike manufacturers are more racing-oriented, others focus more on bikepacking and still others optimize their gravel bikes for demanding terrain. Irrespective of the price, there are therefore major differences in terms of application and handling - and they weigh at least as much as the price.
