Best budget gravel bikes 2025: get off the beaten track without spending the earth

These budget gravel bikes allow you to enjoy off-road trails and explore new places without breaking the bank

Male cyclist riding a budget gravel bike.
(Image credit: Future)

Gravel bikes are often lauded for their versatility. While they remain inherently practical due to their wider tyre clearance and relaxed geometry, in recent years they have become specialised and nuanced. There are gravel bikes designed for fast gravel races, for off-grid bikepacking, for rugged trails, and much in between. But are there options for those on a tighter budget?

Like the best road bikes, the best gravel bikes can be expensive, and with bike prices increasing across the board it has become harder to find high performing yet affordable models. However, we’ve tested a number of gravel bikes that fit the bill and have selected our favorites here. We’ve chosen them for their general performance as well as for their ability to shine in specific areas, which will hopefully help you to make a more informed choice when buying your first gravel bike.

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