Best Gravel Bike for Bike Packing

Best Gravel Bikes for Bike packing in 2025 – Top Picks for Adventure Riders

Gravel bikes have become the go-to choice for bikepacking enthusiasts, blending the speed of road bikes with the rugged durability of mountain bikes. These versatile machines excel on mixed terrains—gravel paths, singletrack trails, and paved roads—making them ideal for multi-day adventures carrying gear. In 2025, brands like Salsa, Canyon, Specialized, and Surly lead the pack with bikes designed for comfort, load-carrying capacity, and reliability.

The best gravel bikes for bikepacking, focusing on features like mounting points, tire clearance, and relaxed geometry for long-distance comfort. With insights for riders managing conditions like plantar fasciitis, which affects foot comfort and balance, and 11 frequently asked questions, this guide helps you find the perfect bike for your next bikepacking journey.

Why Gravel Bikes Are Perfect for Bikepacking

Bikepacking combines the freedom of bike touring with the off-road exploration of backpacking, requiring a bike that’s lightweight, durable, and equipped to carry gear over varied terrains. Gravel bikes are ideal due to their:

• Versatile Geometry: Relaxed head angles (69–71°) and longer wheelbases ensure stability on rough trails, crucial for loaded bikes.
• Wide Tire Clearance: Accommodating tires up to 50mm (e.g., Canyon Grizl) or 2.4 inches (e.g., Salsa Cutthroat) for traction on gravel, mud, or singletrack.
• Mounting Points: Multiple bosses for frame bags, racks, and bottles (e.g., Focus Atlas) maximize storage for multi-day trips.
• Comfort Features: Features like suspension forks (e.g., Specialized Diverge) or carbon frames reduce vibrations, easing fatigue and foot strain for riders with plantar fasciitis.
• Durability: Steel or aluminum frames (e.g., Surly Bridge Club) withstand the rigors of off-road travel.

For riders with plantar fasciitis—a condition causing heel pain due to plantar fascia inflammation—gravel bikes with upright positions and vibration-dampening features (e.g., Future Shock suspension) reduce foot stress and enhance balance. In 2025, advancements in frame materials, groupsets (e.g., Shimano GRX 12-speed), and bikepacking-specific designs make gravel bikes more capable than ever. This guide reviews top models, offering detailed insights to help you choose the best gravel bike for bikepacking.

Key Features to Look for in a Bikepacking Gravel Bike

Selecting the best gravel bike for bikepacking requires focusing on features that ensure comfort, versatility, and reliability. Here’s what to prioritize:

1. Mounting Points: Look for bikes with multiple bosses on the frame, fork, and top tube (e.g., Salsa Cutthroat) for frame bags, racks, and cages.
2. Tire Clearance: Wider clearance (45–57mm or 2.4 inches) supports knobby tires for off-road traction (e.g., Canyon Grizl’s 50mm clearance).
3. Relaxed Geometry: A slack head angle (69–71°) and longer wheelbase (e.g., Focus Atlas) ensure stability with heavy loads.
4. Low Gear Ratios: Sub-1:1 gear ratios (e.g., Salsa Fargo’s 20 gear-inch climbing gear) ease hill climbs when loaded.
5. Frame Material: Carbon (lightweight, vibration-dampening), steel (durable, affordable), or aluminum (balanced) suit different budgets and needs.
6. Suspension Options: Front suspension (e.g., Specialized Diverge’s Future Shock) or frame flex (e.g., Cannondale Topstone’s Kingpin) enhances comfort on rough terrain.
7. Drivetrain Reliability: 1x or 2x groupsets (e.g., Shimano GRX or SRAM Apex) offer wide ranges and low maintenance for remote trips.
8. Weight Capacity: Frames supporting 300–400 lbs (e.g., Surly Bridge Club) handle rider and gear weight.
9. Tubeless Tires: Tubeless-ready wheels (e.g., DT Swiss G1800) reduce punctures and improve traction.
10. Comfort Features: Upright riding positions and flared handlebars (e.g., Fairlight Secan) reduce hand and back strain.
11. Dropper Post Compatibility: Allows better control on technical descents (e.g., Marin Headlands).

For riders with plantar fasciitis, prioritize bikes with suspension, upright geometry, and wide tires to minimize vibrations and pedaling effort, reducing foot pain. With these features in mind, let’s explore the top gravel bikes for bikepacking in 2025.

Top 10 Gravel Bikes for Bikepacking in 2025

1. Salsa Cutthroat GRX 600

The Salsa Cutthroat GRX 600 is a bikepacking legend, designed for epic adventures like the Tour Divide. Its carbon frame and 29 x 2.4-inch tire clearance handle rough terrain, while abundant mounting points support extensive gear. The Shimano GRX 600 drivetrain offers reliable shifting. Priced at $3,499, it’s available at REI.com.

Key Features:

• Carbon frame, 29 x 2.4-inch tire clearance
• Shimano GRX 600 2×11 drivetrain, 20 gear-inch low gear
• Multiple frame, fork, and top tube mounts
• 69.5° head angle, long wheelbase for stability
• Tubeless-ready WTB tires, hydraulic disc brakes

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The carbon frame dampens vibrations, and the relaxed geometry reduces foot strain, ideal for long, loaded rides.

2. Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 1by

The Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 is a versatile carbon gravel bike with 50mm tire clearance and extensive mounting points for bikepacking bags. Its Shimano GRX 1×12 drivetrain ensures simplicity, and the lightweight frame (9.5 kg) excels on climbs. Priced at $3,099, it’s available at Canyon.com.

Key Features:

• Carbon frame, 50mm tire clearance
• Shimano GRX RX822 1×12 drivetrain
• Multiple bosses for bags, racks, and fenders
• 70° head angle, tubeless-ready DT Swiss G1800 wheels
• Fizik Argo Terra X5 saddle for comfort

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The carbon frame and upright geometry minimize vibrations, easing foot discomfort on multi-day trips.

3. Specialized Diverge Comp E5

The Specialized Diverge Comp E5 is an aluminum gravel bike with Future Shock 1.5 suspension, offering 20mm of front-end travel for rough terrain. Its 47mm tire clearance and mounting points make it bikepacking-ready. Priced at $2,500, it’s available at Specialized.com.

Key Features:

• Aluminum frame, carbon fork, 47mm tire clearance
• Future Shock 1.5 suspension, SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain
• Triple fork mounts, top tube, and down tube bosses
• 70.5° head angle, flared handlebars
• Tubeless-ready 38mm Pathfinder Sport tires

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The suspension and relaxed geometry reduce vibrations and foot strain, enhancing comfort on long rides.

4. Surly Bridge Club

The Surly Bridge Club is a budget-friendly steel gravel bike, excelling on mixed terrains with a 27.5 x 2.8-inch tire option. Its versatile mounting points and low gear ratios make it a bikepacking favorite. Priced at $1,499, it’s available at SurlyBikes.com.

Key Features:

• Chromoly steel frame, 27.5 x 2.8-inch or 26 x 3-inch tire clearance
• SRAM SX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain, 20 gear-inch low gear
• Multiple frame and fork mounts
• 70° head angle, 3-year frame warranty
• Tubeless-compatible wheels

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The steel frame absorbs shocks, and the upright position reduces foot stress, ideal for heavy loads.

5. Salsa Fargo Apex 1

The Salsa Fargo Apex 1 is a gravel-specific bikepacking rig with a steel frame and 29 x 2.4-inch tire clearance. Its low gear ratios and ample mounts handle loaded adventures. Priced at $2,599, it’s available at SalsaCycles.com.

Key Features:

• Chromoly steel frame, 29 x 2.4-inch tire clearance
• SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain, 20 gear-inch low gear
• Multiple bosses for bags and racks
• 69.5° head angle, stable geometry
• 5-year frame warranty

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The steel frame and low gears reduce pedaling effort, easing foot pain on long climbs.

6. Fairlight Secan 2.5

The Fairlight Secan 2.5 is a steel gravel bike with Reynolds 853 tubing, offering 50mm tire clearance and customizable geometry. Its abundant mounts make it a bikepacking standout. Priced at $3,200, it’s available at FairlightCycles.com.

Key Features:

• Reynolds 853 steel frame, 50mm tire clearance
• Shimano GRX RX822 1×12 drivetrain
• Multiple frame, fork, and rack mounts
• 70° head angle, tubeless-ready DT Swiss G1800 wheels
• Custom geometry options

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The steel frame and upright position dampen vibrations, supporting foot comfort on extended trips.

7. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 4

The Cannondale Topstone Carbon 4 features Kingpin suspension for 30mm of rear travel, ideal for rough trails. Its 45mm tire clearance and mounting points suit bikepacking. Priced at $2,800, it’s available at Cannondale.com.

Key Features:

• Carbon frame, 45mm tire clearance
• Shimano GRX 400 2×10 drivetrain
• Multiple mounting points for bags and fenders
• Kingpin suspension, 70.5° head angle
• Tubeless-ready WTB tires

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The Kingpin suspension and carbon frame reduce vibrations, easing foot strain on long rides.

8. Focus Atlas 6.8

The Focus Atlas 6.8 is an aluminum gravel bike with 47mm tire clearance and extensive mounting points, perfect for bikepacking. Its stable geometry ensures confidence on technical terrain. Priced at $2,300, it’s available at Focus-Bikes.com.

Key Features:

• Aluminum frame, 47mm tire clearance
• Shimano GRX 400 2×10 drivetrain
• Multiple bosses for bags, racks, and fenders
• 70° head angle, dropper post compatible
• Tubeless-ready wheels

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The stable geometry and vibration-dampening frame reduce foot stress, ideal for loaded adventures.

9. Marin Headlands 2

The Marin Headlands 2 combines gravel and mountain bike traits with a carbon frame and 45mm tire clearance. Its dropper post and mounting points make it bikepacking-ready. Priced at $3,099, it’s available at MarinBikes.com.

Key Features:

• Carbon frame, 45mm tire clearance
• SRAM Rival 1×11 drivetrain
• Multiple mounting points, dropper post included
• 70.5° head angle, stable handling
• Tubeless-ready tires

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The carbon frame and dropper post enhance comfort and control, reducing foot strain on descents.

10. Triban Gravel 520

The Triban Gravel 520 is a budget-friendly aluminum gravel bike with 47mm tire clearance and versatile mounting points. Its relaxed geometry suits beginners. Priced at $1,199, it’s available at Decathlon.com.

Key Features:

• Aluminum frame, 47mm tire clearance
• SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain
• Multiple mounts for racks and bags
• 70.5° head angle, tubeless-ready 650B wheels
• 11 kg weight (size M)

Why It’s Great for Bikepacking and Plantar Fasciitis: The affordable price and upright geometry make it accessible and comfortable for long rides.

Benefits of Gravel Bikes for Riders with Plantar Fasciitis

Gravel bikes are ideal for bikepackers with plantar fasciitis due to:

• Vibration Dampening: Carbon frames (e.g., Canyon Grizl) or suspension systems (e.g., Specialized Diverge’s Future Shock) reduce road shock, easing heel pain.
• Upright Geometry: Relaxed head angles and high handlebars (e.g., Fairlight Secan) minimize strain on feet and back.
• Wide Tires: Larger tires (45–50mm) absorb bumps, reducing foot stress (e.g., Salsa Cutthroat).
• Low Gear Ratios: Easier pedaling (e.g., Salsa Fargo’s 20 gear-inch gear) reduces foot exertion on climbs.

Pairing these bikes with supportive insoles and proper footwear enhances comfort, allowing riders to focus on the adventure.

Choosing the Right Gravel Bike for Bikepacking

To select the best gravel bike for bikepacking, consider:

• Adventure Type: Multi-day trips need ample mounts and wide tires (e.g., Salsa Cutthroat); shorter rides suit lighter bikes (e.g., Canyon Grizl).
• Terrain: Rough trails require suspension or large tire clearance (e.g., Specialized Diverge); mixed surfaces need versatility (e.g., Surly Bridge Club).
• Budget: Entry-level options like Triban Gravel 520 ($1,199) suit beginners; premium bikes like Salsa Cutthroat ($3,499) offer top performance.
• Comfort Needs: For plantar fasciitis, prioritize suspension, carbon frames, or steel for vibration dampening.
• Gear Ratios: Sub-1:1 ratios are essential for loaded climbing (e.g., Salsa Fargo).
• Weight: Lighter bikes (e.g., Canyon Grizl, 9.5 kg) ease long-distance efforts; heavier steel bikes (e.g., Surly Bridge Club) prioritize durability.

Test ride bikes at local shops or check direct-to-consumer brands like Canyon for demos. Consult a podiatrist for footwear advice if managing plantar fasciitis.

Maintenance Tips for Bikepacking Gravel Bikes

To ensure your gravel bike is ready for bikepacking:

• Check Tire Pressure: Maintain 30–40 PSI for tubeless tires to balance traction and efficiency.
• Clean Drivetrain: Remove dirt from chain and cassette after off-road rides to ensure smooth shifting.
• Inspect Mounts: Tighten bolts on frame and fork bosses to secure bags and racks.
• Lubricate Chain: Apply wet lube for muddy conditions or dry lube for gravel to extend drivetrain life.
• Store Properly: Keep the bike in a dry, cool place to protect the frame and electronics.
• Regular Tune-Ups: Service brakes and gears every 6 months, especially after long trips.

Comparing Gravel Bikes to Other Bikepacking Options

• Gravel vs. Mountain Bikes: Gravel bikes are faster on pavement and gravel but less capable on technical singletrack than mountain bikes (e.g., Surly Krampus).
• Gravel vs. Touring Bikes: Gravel bikes are lighter and more agile but have fewer rack mounts than traditional touring bikes.
• Gravel vs. Cyclocross Bikes: Gravel bikes have relaxed geometry and wider tire clearance, making them better for loaded bikepacking than race-focused cyclocross bikes.

For icy or muddy conditions, gravel bikes with wide tires (e.g., Salsa Cutthroat) outperform touring bikes, offering better traction and stability.

11 Frequently Asked Questions About Gravel Bikes for Bikepacking

1. What makes a gravel bike ideal for bikepacking?

Gravel bikes combine road bike speed with off-road capability, offering wide tire clearance, mounting points, and relaxed geometry for comfort and stability with heavy loads.

2. Are gravel bikes good for riders with plantar fasciitis?

Yes, features like carbon frames, suspension (e.g., Specialized Diverge’s Future Shock), and wide tires reduce vibrations and pedaling effort, easing foot pain.

3. What’s the best gravel bike for multi-day bikepacking?

The Salsa Cutthroat GRX 600 excels with its carbon frame, 2.4-inch tire clearance, and extensive mounting points, ideal for long adventures.

4. Can gravel bikes handle singletrack trails?

Yes, bikes with wide tires (e.g., Salsa Fargo) and stable geometry (e.g., Focus Atlas) manage light singletrack, though they’re less capable than mountain bikes on technical terrain.

5. What’s the best budget gravel bike for bikepacking?

The Triban Gravel 520 ($1,199) offers 47mm tire clearance, mounting points, and a reliable SRAM Apex drivetrain, perfect for beginners.

6. How many mounting points are needed for bikepacking?

At least 6–8 bosses (frame, fork, top tube) are ideal for frame bags, racks, and bottles, as seen on the Canyon Grizl or Salsa Cutthroat.

7. Are carbon or steel frames better for bikepacking?

Carbon (e.g., Canyon Grizl) is lightweight and vibration-dampening; steel (e.g., Surly Bridge Club) is durable and affordable. Choose based on budget and terrain.

8. What tire size is best for bikepacking?

45–50mm tires (e.g., Canyon Grizl) or 2.2–2.4 inches (e.g., Salsa Cutthroat) balance traction and speed for mixed terrains.

9. Do I need suspension for bikepacking?

Suspension (e.g., Specialized Diverge’s Future Shock) enhances comfort on rough trails but isn’t essential for smoother gravel routes.

10. How do I maintain a gravel bike for bikepacking?

Check tire pressure, clean the drivetrain, tighten mount bolts, lubricate the chain, and service brakes and gears every 6 months.

11. Can gravel bikes be used for commuting?

Yes, versatile models like the Surly Bridge Club handle commuting and bikepacking with their durable frames and mounting options.

Conclusion

The best gravel bikes for bikepacking in 2025, like the Salsa Cutthroat GRX 600 and Canyon Grizl CF SL 8, offer unmatched versatility for multi-day adventures. With features like wide tire clearance, ample mounting points, and relaxed geometry, they excel on gravel, singletrack, and pavement. For riders with plantar fasciitis, bikes with suspension or carbon frames (e.g., Specialized Diverge) reduce foot strain, enhancing comfort.

Budget options like the Triban Gravel 520 make bikepacking accessible, while premium models like the Salsa Fargo cater to serious adventurers. Choose based on your terrain, budget, and comfort needs, and maintain your bike for reliable performance. Hit the trails with confidence and explore the world on two wheels!