1x Gravel Bike (Tips for Riding a 1x Gravel Bike)

The Short Answer is:

A gravel bike with a 1x drivetrain has a single chainring in the front and multiple gears in the back. The use of a 1x drivetrain on a gravel bike is a matter of personal preference and depends on the type of riding you plan to do. Some riders prefer the simplicity and ease of use of a 1x drivetrain, while others prefer the wider gear range of a 2x drivetrain. The choice between 1x and 2x drivetrains is not a make-or-break decision for your gravel riding experience.

Gravel biking has become increasingly popular in recent years, and one of the key decisions when setting up a gravel bike is whether to use a 1x or 2x drivetrain.

A 1x drivetrain is a single-ring drivetrain that offers simplicity and a wide range of gears, while a 2x drivetrain has two chainrings and offers more gear options. The choice between the two often depends on riding style and the type of terrain typically encountered.

In this article, we will explore the topic, “1x Gravel Bike” and take a brief look at their usage on various genres of bikes, before heading into their advantages and disadvantages. We will also discuss the best 1x gearing options for gravel biking.

What Is a 1x Drivetrain?

A 1x drivetrain is a type of bicycle drivetrain that uses a single chainring at the front and a cassette with multiple sprockets at the rear. This means that there is only one chainring on the crankset, which simplifies the shifting process and reduces the weight of the bike.

The cassette at the rear provides a range of gears to choose from, allowing the rider to adjust the gear ratio to match the terrain and their pedaling cadence. 1x drivetrains have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in mountain biking, due to their simplicity, reliability, and weight savings.

They are also less prone to chain drops and chain suck, which can be common issues with multiple chainring setups.

However, the gear range of a 1x drivetrain may not be as wide as that of a 2x or 3x drivetrain, which can limit the rider’s options in certain situations.

A 1x drivetrain is a good choice for riders who prioritize simplicity, weight savings, and reliability over having a wide range of gears to choose from.

Benefits of a 1x Gravel Bike

A 1x gravel bike is a bicycle that has a single chainring in the front and a cassette with a wide range of gears in the back. This type of bike has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its simplicity, versatility, and performance benefits.

Here are some of the benefits of a 1x gravel bike:

1. Simplicity

A 1x gravel bike has a simpler drivetrain than a traditional 2x or 3x bike, which means there are fewer parts to maintain and fewer things that can go wrong.

With only one chainring in the front, there is no need to worry about shifting between multiple chainrings, which can be a source of frustration for some riders. This simplicity also means that the bike is lighter, which can be an advantage when riding on rough terrain.

2. Versatility

A 1x gravel bike is a versatile machine that can handle a wide range of terrain and riding styles. The wide range of gears in the back cassette allows the rider to tackle steep climbs and fast descents with ease.

The lack of a front derailleur also means that the bike has more clearance for wider tires, which can be an advantage when riding on rough or loose terrain.

3. Performance

A 1x gravel bike can offer better performance than a traditional 2x or 3x bike in certain situations. With only one chainring in the front, the bike has a more efficient drivetrain, which means less energy is lost through friction and more power is transferred to the rear wheel.

This can be an advantage when riding on flat or rolling terrain, where speed is more important than climbing ability.

4. Aesthetics

Finally, a 1x gravel bike can be a beautiful machine to look at. With only one chainring in the front, the bike has a clean and minimalist look that many riders find appealing.

This simplicity can also be an advantage when it comes to maintenance, as there are fewer parts to clean and maintain.

A 1x gravel bike offers many benefits over a traditional 2x or 3x bike, including simplicity, versatility, performance, and aesthetics. If you are looking for a bike that can handle a wide range of terrain and riding styles, a 1x gravel bike may be the perfect choice for you.

Drawbacks 1x Gravel Bike

Gravel bikes with a 1x drivetrain have several advantages, such as simpler shifting, reduced weight, and less maintenance. However, there are also several drawbacks to consider:

1. Limited gear range: A 1x drivetrain has a comparatively limited gear range, which can be a disadvantage when riding on steep hills or long, flat stretches of road.
2. Larger gear jumps: With a 1x drivetrain, there are larger gear jumps between each gear, which can make it harder to find the perfect gear for a given situation.
3. Less efficient power transfer: A 1x drivetrain can be less efficient at transferring power to the rear wheel, especially when compared to a 2x drivetrain.
4. Less versatility: A 1x drivetrain may not be as versatile as a 2x drivetrain, which can limit the types of terrain and riding conditions that the bike is suitable for.

It’s important to consider these drawbacks when deciding whether to choose a gravel bike with a 1x drivetrain. The decision will depend on your individual needs and preferences, as well as the type of riding you plan to do.

Choosing the Right 1x Gravel Bike

Gravel bikes are designed to cover long distances over a wide variety of terrain. Choosing the right 1x gravel bike involves considering several factors, including terrain and riding style, gear range considerations, and budget and component quality. Here are some key points to consider:

Terrain and Riding Style

The type of terrain you plan to ride on and your riding style will influence the type of gravel bike you choose. Gravel bikes closer to mountain bikes in geometry will be more stable at high speeds and are intended to be capable on rougher or more challenging terrain, including easy singletrack trails.

On the other hand, gravel bikes with a more comfortable, relaxed geometry are better suited for long-distance rides on smoother terrain.

Gear Range Considerations

One of the key decisions you’ll make when buying a gravel bike is whether you want a 1x or a 2x crankset. A 1x drivetrain eliminates the weight and clutter of the front derailleur and cable without giving up the gear range of a conventional double chainring drivetrain.

However, because the total number of gears on a 1x might range from 10 to 12 gears, it eliminates some ability to fine-tune to the best gear for whatever terrain you’re on, making it less suitable for more intense competitive riding.

A 2x drivetrain offers more gear range and is better suited for riders who plan to tackle steep climbs or ride in hilly terrain.

Budget and Component Quality

The budget you have for your gravel bike will influence the quality of components you can afford. Higher-end components will generally be more durable and offer better performance, but they will also be more expensive.

It’s important to strike a balance between your budget and the quality of components you need to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

Choosing the right 1x gravel bike involves considering your riding style, the type of terrain you plan to ride on, the gear range you need, and your budget.

By taking these factors into account, you can find a gravel bike that meets your needs and provides a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.

Tips for Riding a 1x Gravel Bike

Gravel bikes are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists, and many of them are equipped with a 1x drivetrain. Here are some tips for riding a 1x gravel bike:

Gearing

With a 1x drivetrain, you have a single chainring up front and a wide-range cassette in the back. This means you have fewer gears to choose from, but the range of gears is wider. You may need to adjust your pedaling cadence to find the right gear for the terrain.

Tyre pressure

Tyre pressure is a big determinant of how your gravel bike will handle. The large air volume of wider tires means you can run lower pressures for better traction and comfort. Experiment with different pressures to find the sweet spot for your riding style and terrain.

Tyre choice

Gravel bikes are designed to handle a variety of terrain, so choose tires that match the conditions you’ll be riding in. Opt for a more aggressive, knobbly tread for wetter, muddier conditions, or a slicker tread for dry hardpack.

Riding technique

Gravel riding requires different skills than road cycling. The terrain is less predictable, so you’ll need to learn how to handle loose gravel, rocks, and other obstacles. Practice riding on different surfaces and in different conditions to improve your skills.

Frame material

Gravel bikes come in a variety of frame materials, including carbon fiber, aluminum, steel, and titanium. Each material has its own characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your riding style and budget.

Accessories

Gravel riding often involves long rides in remote areas, so be prepared with the right accessories. Consider carrying a repair kit, extra water and food, and a GPS device or map.

Remember that riding a 1x gravel bike is all about finding the right balance between speed, comfort, and control. Experiment with different setups and techniques to find what works best for you.

Maintenance and Care

Gravel bikes are designed to handle rough terrain and challenging conditions, which means they require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your 1x gravel bike:

Cleaning and Washing

1. Wash your bike after every ride to reduce wear and tear.
2. A quick rinse after a dry ride is great for removing the thin layer of dust that usually goes unnoticed between rides.
3. If your bike is absolutely covered in mud, you’re going to need to get the hose or bucket out.
4. Use a bucket of warm soapy water, a sponge, clean rags or microfibre cloths, and a small brush or old toothbrush for hard-to-reach places.
5. Use a bike stand (optional but helpful for deep cleaning) .
6. Clean the frame and other parts, chain cleaning and degreasing, and protect the bike.

Chain Lubrication

1. Gravel riding means more dust and dirt generally, which can contaminate your drivetrain and cause chain wear.
2. Choosing the right chain lubricant for the gravel riding you do may really help minimize the amount of contamination.
3. Gearing
4. 1x gearing options for gravel bikes are popular because they offer simplicity and reliability.
5. A 1×12 can cover everything you need, but it may not be as efficient as a 2x for extended periods of time with a greater variation of terrain.

Tire Pressure and Protection

1. Gravel wheels are almost always tubeless-ready, which means they’re already fitted with tubeless rim tape and supplied with tubeless valves.
2. The puncture protection afforded by the sealant in a tubeless tire is a godsend when riding over broken surfaces and thorny debris.
3. Tyre inserts are another option to up your protection and there are a few designed specifically for gravel riding.

Other Maintenance Tips

1. Check your bike regularly for wear and tear, and replace parts as needed.
2. Keep your bike well-lubricated to prevent rust and corrosion.
3. Store your bike in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from moisture and heat.

By following these tips, you can keep your 1x gravel bike in good condition and enjoy many miles of off-road adventures.

Conclusion on 1x Gravel Bike

In conclusion, the debate between 1x and 2x drivetrains for gravel and adventure bikes is ongoing. While 2x drivetrains offer a wider range of ratios and smaller gaps between sprockets, 1x drivetrains provide simplicity and lower gears for hilly off-road trails with varying gradients.

The benefits of 1x drivetrains on road bikes are also being explored, with some riders using them for their simplicity, aerodynamics, and weight savings.

However, 2x drivetrains are still preferred by many for their versatility and performance. Ultimately, the choice between 1x and 2x drivetrains depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the rider.