Reid Original Gravel
Best entry level gravel bike for budget conscious new riders.
This versatile all-road machine bridges the gap between urban commuting and weekend exploration. Built with a durable steel frame, it offers a smooth, reliable ride across varied terrain, from paved city streets to loose gravel paths. The classic geometry ensures comfort for long endurance rides, while the reliable drivetrain provides the necessary range for tackling hills and flats alike. Designed for those who want a single, capable companion for daily travel and spontaneous adventures, this bike emphasizes simplicity and rugged performance without unnecessary complexity.
$599.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.3
/ 5
Category Rank
383
/ 393
#383 in Gravel & Cyclocross Bikes
Price vs Category Average
-83%
Below average
Frame
Reid custom steel all-road
/ Reid custom steel all-road
Who it's for
- Adventurous riders seeking a single bike for varied landscapes.
- New cyclists and commuters prioritizing comfort and confidence on mixed routes.
- Beginners eager to try gravel riding without a significant investment.
- Everyday riders needing a resilient bike for commuting and leisure.
Who should skip it
- Performance-focused riders prioritizing lightweight agility for speed and climbs.
- Experienced cyclists desiring premium shifting and braking performance.
- Road cyclists primarily focused on maximizing speed and efficiency on paved roads.
Performance breakdown
Frame Durability
Steel construction offers exceptional resilience against daily wear and tear.
Versatility
Seamlessly transitions from urban commuting to weekend gravel path exploration.
Drivetrain Range
Entry-level gearing handles moderate hills but lacks high-end climbing efficiency.
Ride Comfort
Classic geometry absorbs road vibration for fatigue-free endurance riding.
Braking Performance
Cantilever brakes provide adequate stopping power but lack modern disc precision.
Maintenance Simplicity
Straightforward mechanical components make home repairs and tuning remarkably easy.
Key Specs
Frame
Reid custom steel all-road
Fork
Reid custom steel
Tires
Kenda K1053 700 x 32c
Brakes
Alloy cantilever brakes
Drivetrain
Shimano A070 2x7 speed
Wheel Size
700c
Frame Material
Steel
Bicycle Type
Gravel/All-Road
Know before you buy
Yes, the steel frame is an excellent choice for commuting. Steel is naturally vibration-dampening, which helps smooth out rough city pavement and potholes, making for a more comfortable ride than aluminum or carbon alternatives.
The 2x7 drivetrain provides a solid range of gears for mixed terrain. While it may not offer the ultra-low climbing gears found on more expensive 1x11 or 1x12 gravel setups, it is perfectly capable of handling moderate inclines and rolling hills during your daily rides.
These tires are designed for 'all-road' versatility, meaning they perform best on paved roads, light gravel, and hard-packed dirt paths. If you plan on tackling deep, loose gravel or technical singletrack, you might find them a bit narrow and could benefit from upgrading to a wider tire if the frame clearance allows.
Cantilever brakes are straightforward to maintain and adjust with basic tools. They offer reliable stopping power, though they require periodic cable tension adjustments as the pads wear down, which is a simple task for any home mechanic.
The geometry is definitely tuned for comfort and endurance. It features a more upright riding position compared to a dedicated cyclocross or road race bike, which reduces strain on your back and neck during longer rides or extended commutes.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$600