Callum is here, and has somewhat inexplicably decided to reference a Bolton comedian in his opening blog entry...

The 2026 Vuelta a Burgos will take place from the 4th to the 8th of August. The Spanish race is one of the single biggest preparation races towards the Vuelta a Espaa and will feature several stages where the climbers will be testing their form. We take a look at its profiles. The race was first h...

With its IsoSpeed comfort and numerous mounting points, the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 aims to strike the perfect balance between comfort and agility. It sets out to navigate our big group test of the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 with a sleek and intuitive feel, but can its direct handling keep its composure when the gravel gets rough and the pace picks up?We put this bike through its paces as part of our group test for the Best Gravel Bikes 2026, where you can find a complete overview of the test field, our review criteria, and all of the other gravel bikes included in the line-up.Trek Checkpoint SL 7 | 8.94 kg in size M | 5,999.00 | Manufacturer WebsiteFew manufacturers cover such a vast range as Trek, from kids bikes and Tour de France time trial machines to full-blown downhill rigs and fat bikes. Catering to so many disciplines at once brings a real risk that each model might end up feeling like yet another interchangeable piece in a giant corporate jigsaw, but Treks scale also brings some benefits. Technologies developed in one discipline can be shared with others, allowing them to bring innovative ideas to different segments, without needing to re-invent the wheel each time. A prime example of this is IsoSpeed: Originally developed for their Domane endurance road bike to filter out vibrations at the seat tube, the technology has since made the leap into their gravel and MTB line-ups too.So is the case with the Checkpoint SL 7. Rather than coming up with yet another seemingly interchangeable adventure feature, Trek simply rely on the tried-and-tested IsoSpeed system from their road department to handle ride comfort. If it aint broke, why fix it?The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 in Detail: Just Another Waypoint?In ultra-cycling and bikepacking, a checkpoint is more than just a word on paper. It is a control point along the way, a fixed marker between start and finish that shows just how well you and your machine are coping with the route. Trek have brought exactly this ethos to their gravel line-up. Instead of an out-and-out racer, the Checkpoint is meant to be a dependable companion that feels equally at home on tarmac links as it does on rough gravel. For our review, we lined up the Carbon SL 7 variant, equipped with a SRAM Force XPLR AXS groupset this is the sportiest offering in the range.Trek Checkpoint SL 7 2024 5,999SpecificationsSeatpost Bontrager 27,2Brakes SRAM Force E1 160 mmDrivetrain SRAM FORCE XPLR AXS 1x13Chainring 40 TStem Bontrager Pro 80 mmHandlebar Bontrager Pro Gravel 420 mmWheelset Bontrager Aelus Elite 35V 12x100 / 12x142Tires Bontrager Girona Pro 42 x 700CCranks SRAM Force XLPR 170 mmCassette SRAM Force XPLR XG-1371 10-46TTechnical DataSize XS S M M/L L XLWeight 8,94 kgSpecific FeaturesIntegrated frame storage compartmentIsoSpeed system in the top tubeExtensive Bontrager componentsOn the technical side, the Checkpoint features Treks signature IsoSpeed system at the seat cluster, which decouples the seat tube from the top tube to effectively filter out harsh vibrations. The frame itself boasts a clean design language, turning heads everywhere in its striking Satin Chameleon green colourway. At 42 mm, the tires on our review bike are on the narrower side, though the frame offers tire clearance for up to 50 mm rubber, leaving plenty of room for upgrades.A quick glance at the geometry table immediately reveals the sporty endurance DNA of the Checkpoint SL 7. Instead of opting for stretched-out adventure dimensions, Trek have kept the bike remarkably compact. In size M, a moderate 391 mm reach and a 579 mm stack place you in a central, performance-oriented position on the bike, without overstretching your back. The bike owes its agile genes primarily to a relatively steep 71.6 head angle, paired with 430 mm chainstays. Combined with a compact 1,034 mm wheelbase, this setup promises wonderfully direct, almost road-bike-like cornering that will put a massive grin on your face on fast gravel tracks.SizeXSSMMLLXLTop Tube536 mm547 mm566 mm578 mm589 mm601 mmSeat Tube445 mm480 mm505 mm530 mm550 mm575 mmHead Tube86 mm106 mm130 mm151 mm171 mm191 mmHead Angle7171.471.67272.172.4Seat Angle747373.373.373.373.3Chainstay430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mmBB Drop76 mm76 mm76 mm76 mm76 mm76 mmWheelbase1013 mm1022 mm1034 mm1042 mm1052 mm1062 mmReach380 mm386 mm391 mm397 mm402 mm408 mmStack535 mm556 mm579 mm601 mm620 mm640 mmWall-to-Wall Bontrager: The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 SpecPriced at 5,999, the Checkpoint SL 7 arrived for our review in a size M, which tips the scales at 8.94 kg. Shifting duties are handled by an electronic SRAM Force XPLR AXS 113 groupset, which pairs a 10-46 t cassette with a 40 t chainring, on 170 mm cranks.Smooth IsolationOriginally developed for the Domane endurance road bike, the IsoSpeed system in the top tube filters out vibrations at the seat tube, without slowing down your forward momentum.Strictly In-HouseFrom the handlebar and stem to the seatpost, Trek consistently rely on their own Bontrager components to create a seamless look down to the very last detail.When it comes to the finishing kit, Trek have strictly kept things in-house. An 80 mm Bontrager Pro stem clamps a 420 mm Bontrager Pro Gravel handlebar, while a 27.2 mm Bontrager seatpost provides the required compliance in tandem with the IsoSpeed element. Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35V wheels keep you planted on the gravel, wrapped in 42 mm Bontrager Girona Pro tires. Given the frames generous 50 mm tire clearance, there is definitely room here for a more substantial upgrade.Room for UpgradesAt 42 mm wide, the Girona Pro tires leave the frames 50 mm tire clearance completely unused great potential if you want more grip and comfort.Almost InvisibleInstead of running completely through the cockpit, the semi-integrated cables route beneath the stem and disappear cleanly into the head tube.Neatly StowedThe internal storage compartment in the down tube provides plenty of room for an inner tube, multi-tool and CO2 cartridge, while keeping the centre of gravity pleasantly low.Trek Checkpoint SL 7 in the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 Group Test: A Balanced Companion?Heading out onto the trails, it doesnt take long to get a feel for the Checkpoint: its a balanced, intuitive all-rounder that keeps things simple for everyone. The steering responds with a pleasant directness and requires no real adaptation, even if you are a newcomer to gravel. The bike is incredibly fun on smooth hardpack and fine gravel, rolling along efficiently and quickly thanks to the fast Bontrager Girona Pro tires. However, as soon as the pace picks up on rougher descents, the Checkpoint starts to show its limitations. The front end becomes noticeably twitchy and loses some of its composure. While it does not come close to the nervous nature of extreme race bikes, it still means that you lose a little bit of confidence at high speed.Its true strength for everyday gravel riding lies in long-distance comfort, thanks to Treks clever frame design. This is where the Checkpoint really scores with its signature IsoSpeed system at the rear, which absorbs harsh surfaces remarkably well, without making the bike feel sluggish or vague under power. That said, the stock 42 mm tires sacrifice some comfort and grip on rough terrain, missing out on performance potential that the frames 50 mm tire clearance could easily accommodate.When it comes to versatility and bikepacking capability, the Trek proves to be a genuine all-rounder. The internal storage compartment integrates cleanly into the down tube, and offers plenty of space for tools and accessories. Combined with the numerous, neatly positioned mounting points on the frame and fork, it creates an exceptionally well-thought-out storage concept. Whether you are heading out for a quick evening spin or an extended adventure tour with luggage, the Checkpoint is a highly dependable companion. Tuning Tip: Swap the narrow 42 mm tires for a higher-volume model to make better use of the available tire clearance, giving you more grip and comfort.Who Is the Trek Checkpoint SL7 For?The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 is the perfect choice if you are looking for a straightforward, intuitive all-rounder for fast terrain. Thanks to its balanced handling and effective IsoSpeed comfort system, it is ideal for a fast spin after work as well as for longer rides on tarmac links, hardpack and fine gravel. However, if you regularly ride on really rough terrain, or want maximum stability at high speeds, you should take a look at more composed competitors like the Canyon Grizl or the Falkenjagd Aristos GT.Helmet Sweet Protection Fluxer Mips | Glasses Oakley Sutro | Jersey ASSOS EQUIPE RS Jersey S11 Shorts ASSOS MILLE GT Bib Shorts | Shoes Shimano SH-XC302WConclusionTrek have delivered a solid and intuitive all-rounder with the Checkpoint SL 7, and it really plays to its strengths on more moderate terrain. The stiff carbon frame provides plenty of forward momentum, while the proven IsoSpeed system keeps the ride smooth at the rear. However, when things get steep and fast on the descents, the bike begins to lose composure. If you are looking for a dependable and comfortable bike for moderate gravel tracks, this is a well-rounded package that can unlock its true potential with the right set of tires.TopsNoticeable comfort from the IsoSpeed systemGreat power transfer thanks to the stiff carbon frameIntuitive and balanced handlingFlopsThe front end becomes twitchy at high speeds on rough terrainNarrow 42 mm tires sacrifice grip and comfortFor more information, visit trek.com.The test fieldThis bike was tested as part of the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 group test. You can find an overview of this group test and all other gravel bikes tested here:All bikes on test: Canyon Grizl 7 ESC | Falkenjagd Aristos GT | Rose Backroad AL | Specialized Diverge 4 Pro | Trek Checkpoint SL 7 | Trek Checkpoint+ SL7Der Beitrag Trek Checkpoint SL 7 Best Gravel Bikes 2026 erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Fantastically comfortable yet stiffly efficient knitted shoes at what's actually a decent price

Demi Vollering took almost two minutes out of Pauline Ferrand-Prevot in the Tour de France Femmes time trial, but Jip van den Bos believes that advantage may be a necessity rather than a luxury before Mont Ventoux. Ferrand-Prevot finished only 34th over the 21 kilometres from Gevrey-Chambertin to Di...

For our big group test of the Best Gravel Bikes 2026, Specialized have provided their do-it-all classic, the Diverge 4. Boasting premium credentials and high-end components, including the Future Shock system, the Californians aim to strike the ultimate balance between sporty performance and epic adventure. Is this versatile all-round ability enough to snatch the overall win from under the competitions nose?We put this bike through its paces as part of our group test for the Best Gravel Bikes 2026, where you can find a complete overview of the test field, our review criteria, and all of the other gravel bikes included in the line-up.Specialized Diverge 4 Pro | 8.82 kg in size 56 | 7,999.00 | Manufacturers WebsiteFor a long time, the Specialized Diverge was the undisputed adventure specialist in the Californian brands line-up. However, a lack of other options with generous tire clearance meant it also had to front up at brutally fast gravel races like Unbound. This compromise often forced the bike into an unwanted dual role. While the Diverge itself remains unchanged, its positioning is clearer than ever now that the new Specialized S-Works Crux has fully taken over the mantle of the uncompromising gravel racer. It is now the ultimate adventurous yet sporty all-rounder for everything away from the start line.With this clear focus in mind, Specialized are entering the Diverge 4 Pro into our group test for the Best Gravel Bikes 2026. For a bold 7,999, the bike throws some clever features into the ring, including Future Shock damping and internal frame storage complete with a SWAT bag. But is this versatility-focused concept enough to hold its own against a highly diverse line-up, and claim the crown as the ultimate do-it-all machine?The Specialized Diverge 4 Pro In Detail Race Bike Or Adventure Rig?Visually, you can immediately recognise the Diverge 4 Pro as a classic Specialized gravel bike. The most striking detail is the external cable routing around the head tube. Although this design is a technical necessity of the Future Shock damping system, it still feels a bit outdated for an 8,000 bike in 2026.Specialized Diverge 4 Pro 2025 7,999SpecificationsSeatpost Roval Terra Carbon Seat Post RoundBrakes SRAM Force E1 160 mmDrivetrain SRAM FORCE XPLR AXS 1x13Chainring 40 TStem Specialized Pro SL 90 mmHandlebar Roval Terra 440 mmWheelset Roval Terra CL 12x100 / 12x142Tires Specialized Tracer TLR 45 x 700CCranks SRAM Force E1 XPLR 172,5 mmCassette SRAM Force E1 XPLR 10-46TTechnical DataSize 49 52 54 56 58 61Weight 8,82 kgSpecific FeaturesIntegrated frame storage compartmentFuture Shock 3.0 in the steerer tubeRoval Terra carbon seatpost with flex designPower meter includedSpecialized have clearly focused on finding the perfect sweet spot between riding fun and comfort. Visually, the Diverge 4 Pro shines in a classy metallic burgundy colourway; the deep red paint shimmers beautifully in the sunlight, matching the tan-wall tires perfectly. The heart of the front end is the Future Shock damping system, which serves up a generous 20 mm of travel. At the rear, this comfort-focused setup is complemented by the Roval Terra seatpost, which is designed to effectively iron out micro-vibrations and harsh impacts using up to 18 mm of targeted rearward vertical flex.The Diverge also aims to set new benchmarks when it comes to storage and versatility. The chunky down tube houses an internal storage compartment, featuring a large opening that offers plenty of room for tools, inner tubes or extra layers of clothing. To withstand tough off-road abuse, the frame features extensive down tube protection, as well as a third bottle cage mount. Generous mounting points on the fork, top tube and down tube let you strap on your bikepacking bags without any hassle, and you can even fit a traditional pannier rack at the rear. Tire clearance is equally generous. The bike comes with 50 mm gravel tires as standard, and if you really want to push the limits, the frame can even swallow mountain bike tires up to 2.2 inches wide.Specialized have given the Diverge a geometry that leans towards confidence and control on rough terrain. Thanks to a generous 610 mm stack in size 56, you sit in a comfortably upright and central position on the bike. To balance out this high front end at speed, the Californian brand have dug deep into their bag of tricks. A long 400 mm reach is paired with a slacker head angle and a significant bottom bracket drop. This combination brings the bike visibly closer to the ground to deliver rock-solid stability, with a short 90 mm stem injecting some much-needed agility back into the steering.SizeXSSMLXLXXLTop tube521 mm537 mm556 mm575 mm593 mm613 mmSeat tube400 mm430 mm470 mm500 mm530 mm560 mmHead tube90 mm104 mm116 mm135 mm161 mm187 mmHead angle7070.571717171Seat angle74.57474747474Chainstay430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mmBB Drop85 mm85 mm85 mm85 mm85 mm85 mmWheelbase1019 mm1031 mm1041 mm1060 mm1081 mm1102 mmReach365 mm374 mm387 mm400 mm412 mm425 mmStack563 mm578 mm592 mm610 mm634 mm659 mmAll Roval? The spec of the Specialized Diverge 4 ProIt is no secret that Specialized prefer to kit out their premium models entirely with their own high-quality components, and the Diverge 4 Pro is absolutely no exception. Boasting a price tag of 7,999, the size 56 bike arrived for our review weighing a relatively sporty 8.82 kg.When it comes to the drivetrain, the Californians rely on the SRAM Force XPLR AXS 113 groupset, complete with a 40 t chainring and 172.5 mm crank arms. If you are a particularly ambitious rider, you will appreciate the built-in power meter that comes as standard to track your power output.Ive Got the Power!The integrated SRAM power meter is a welcome addition to the bike, although for the purposes of this review it falls more into the category of a nice bonus.Roval FlushAs you would expect, Specialized prefer to kit out their builds with their own high-quality components from Roval.As usual, the finishing kit is dominated by their in-house Roval components. The 440 mm wide Roval Terra carbon handlebar fits into a 90 mm Specialized Pro SL stem. Rovals role also extends to the in-house Terra CL carbon wheels, which roll on 45 mm Specialized Tracer TLR tires. This combination is designed to deliver a perfect blend of fast propulsion, high comfort and dependable grip.At the rear, the round Roval Terra carbon seatpost comes into play, utilizing its flex concept to provide plenty of compliance. Up front, the Diverge 4 Pro boasts the absolute flagship version of the brands proprietary damping system, Future Shock 3.3. This small shock unit inside the steerer tube delivers 20 mm of travel and features adjustable damping, allowing you to fine-tune the cockpit perfectly to suit the terrain and your personal preferences.Smooth OperatorDelivering 20 mm of front travel, the Future Shock 3.3 tucked beneath the stem effortlessly irons out rough gravel. You can use the adjustment dial to fine-tune the system perfectly to your riding style and local terrain.All InThanks to the large opening of the internal storage compartment, the SWAT bag slides effortlessly into the down tube. It offers plenty of room for your spare inner tube, tools or snacks.Retro CharmWhile the external cable routing makes maintenance easy, it looks distinctly outdated on a high-end bike costing nearly 8,000 in 2026.Specialized Diverge 4 Pro Review The Dynamic All-Rounder?It doesnt take long to discover that the Specialized Diverge is a thoroughbred all-rounder with a healthy dose of athletic performance in its veins. While some models in the group test shine with their pure composure, the more direct handling of the Diverge calls for a slightly more experienced hand. Your reward is exceptionally sharp turn-in and a playful agility. The masterstroke here is that the sharp handling doesnt come back to bite you when things get faster: the Diverge maintains excellent stability at high speed, giving you a sense of security that easily matches our majestic titanium group test winner from Falkenjagd.However, the bike shows its true greatness during everyday gravel riding and over long distances. This is where the cleverly integrated SWAT internal frame storage in the down tube really shines. Throughout our review, the system proved to be exceptionally well thought out; the cover is incredibly easy to use, and it reveals a wonderfully large opening. You can effortlessly slide the included SWAT bag into the frame, complete with tools, a spare inner tube or snacks, without any annoying rattles. This keeps the centre of gravity low, and often makes a saddle bag completely redundant.When it comes to ride comfort, the Diverge 4 Pro plays in the premier league. The clever interaction between the damping of the Future Shock 3.3 system up front and the noticeable flex of the Roval Terra seatpost at the rear irons out rough tracks with supreme confidence. The 20 mm of travel beneath the stem can easily be adjusted, and it effectively filters out harsh impacts and vibrations in the real world without stripping the bike of its sporty directness on flowing trails.All in all, Specialized brilliantly bridge the gap between a sporty, agile ride feel and a well-considered adventure rig with the Diverge 4 Pro. Thanks to the cleverly designed storage and damping features, it delivers one of the strongest, most dynamic and adaptable packages in our group test. Upgrade tip: Fit a narrower handlebar for more comfortable handling.Who Is the Specialized Diverge 4 Pro For?The Specialized Diverge 4 Pro is the ultimate companion if you are looking for a genuine do-it-all gravel bike, and hate being pigeonholed. Thanks to its high fun factor, superb ride comfort and numerous mounting points, it feels perfectly at home on epic bikepacking adventures just as much as on fast gravel tracks. At the same time, it is versatile enough to shine as a plush daily commuter, or even carry you through your first gravel race.Helmet KASK Protone Icon | Glasses Oakley Sutro Lite Sweep | Jersey ASSOS EQUIPE RS Jersey S11 Shorts ASSOS MILLE GT Bib Shorts | Shoes Fizik Vento Stabilita Carbon | Socks ASSOS R Socks S11ConclusionWith the Diverge 4 Pro, Specialized deliver an outstanding gravel all-rounder that shines with massive adventure potential and superb versatility. Out on our test loop, the bike delights with an excellent mix of punchy acceleration and playful handling. Granted, it is narrowly beaten in a direct comparison by the more forgiving Falkenjagd Aristos GT, which delivers an even greater sense of composure. Nevertheless, if you can overlook the visual compromise of the exposed cables around the cockpit, the Diverge 4 Pro gives you one of the most dynamic, comfortable and well-thought-out options in the market for the best gravel bikes of 2026.TopsSuperb comfort thanks to the Future Shock system, Specialized tires and carbon seatpostMassive fun factorPunchy acceleration and agile handlingFlopsExternally routed brake hoses feel outdated on a bike costing 7,999For more information, visit specialized.com.The test fieldThis bike was tested as part of the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 group test. You can find an overview of this group test and all other gravel bikes tested here:All bikes on test: Canyon Grizl 7 ESC | Falkenjagd Aristos GT | Rose Backroad AL | Specialized Diverge 4 Pro | Trek Checkpoint SL 7 | Trek Checkpoint+ SL7Der Beitrag Specialized Diverge 4 Pro Review Best Gravel Bikes 2026 erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

The motorist, who had previously received penalty points for using his phone at the wheel, was banned from driving for three years

Michael Rasmussen sees no obvious route for Jonas Vingegaard back past Tadej Pogacar, dismissing the Team Visma | Lease a Bike leaders explanation for his lack of explosiveness at the Tour de France as a poor excuse. Vingegaard has suggested his Giro dItalia preparation left him better equipped...

ROSE enter our big group test of the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 with the Backroad AL, an aluminium gravel bike aimed at everyday adventures. Priced at 2,500, ROSE are hoping to prove that you dont need a fancy frame to have a good time. Can this versatile aluminium workhorse with its clever bikepacking features hold up against fierce competition in higher price brackets?We put this bike through its paces as part of our group test for the Best Gravel Bikes 2026, where you can find a complete overview of the test field, our review criteria, and all of the other gravel bikes included in the line-up.Rose Backroad AL | 10.92 kg (size M) | 2,500.00 | Manufacturers WebsiteSince their last major update, ROSE have cleanly split their gravel line-up to pursue a distinct two-pronged strategy. If you are chasing seconds on the clock, you will want to grab the uncompromising Backroad FF race machine. However, if you are driven by an untamed spirit of discovery, craving self-sufficiency and fully loaded bikepacking trips, the classic Backroad is in its element. The Bocholt-based brand have poured this adventure DNA into a robust, everyday-ready aluminium frame with the ROSE Backroad AL, creating a bike that is tailor-made for beginners, commuters and dedicated touring fans.With a price tag of around 2,500, the bike enters our big group test for the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 to prove that you do not need a sky-high carbon budget to enjoy gravel riding. ROSE have certainly done their homework, because despite the more affordable frame material, the Backroad AL boasts modern refinements like a fully integrated internal storage compartment in the down tube, a relaxed, touring-friendly geometry and a massive array of mounting points for all your luggage. But is a clever list of features enough to hold your own against fierce competition on the trail, or will this aluminium workhorse ultimately run out of steam?The ROSE Backroad AL In Detail: Built For Big Adventures?The frame of the ROSE Backroad AL cleverly hides its construction material. The tube junctions are smoothed down so seamlessly that at first glance you would struggle to tell this aluminium model apart from a much more expensive carbon gravel bike. The internal cable routing and the matte, earthy paint job in the sandy Dune colourway give the bike a muscular yet very clean look. With this chunky appearance, our size M review bike tips the scales at 10.92 kg, which is quite a bit above average.Rose Backroad AL 2025 2,500SpecificationsSeatpost Rose Viper 30,9Brakes Shimano GRX 180/160 mmDrivetrain Shimano GRX RX610 1x12Chainring 40 TStem Rose 90 mmHandlebar Rose Gravel 420 mmWheelset Rose G25 12x100 / 12x142Tires Continental Terra Adventure 45 x 700CCranks Shimano FC-RX610-1 170 mmCassette Shimano SLX CS M7100 10-51TTechnical DataSize XXS XS S M L XL XXLWeight 10,92 kgSpecific FeaturesIntegrated frame storage compartmentBolt-on frame bagFrame storage compartment prepared for a power bankLarge 180 mm brake rotorA standout feature in this price and material bracket is the integrated down tube storage compartment, which comes as standard with a matching pouch for your puncture repair kit. When it comes to adventure readiness, ROSE really knock it out of the park. Alongside a massive number of mounting points on the fork and frame, the bike boasts a pre-installed wiring harness inside the down tube. You can connect a power bank here, and tap into its power via an integrated charging port right below the stem to charge your smartphone or bike computer.There are no wild experiments here, just pure, proven reliability. The same philosophy extends to the geometry of the ROSE Backroad AL too. With a 395.5 mm reach and a 583 mm stack in size M, it places you in a balanced and touring-friendly riding position. This upright posture noticeably reduces strain on your neck and shoulders during long bikepacking trips. The moderate 430 mm chainstays and 1,041 mm wheelbase create a frame that does not catch you off guard with twitchy agility, but instead shines with completely predictable, composed handling. It is a setup that should give gravel newcomers an immense amount of confidence on loose gravel, from the very first metre.SizeXXSXSSMM/LLXLXXLTop tube510 mm525 mm545 mm560 mm575 mm590 mm615 mm628 mmSeat tube440 mm460 mm480 mm490 mm510 mm530 mm555 mm580 mmHead tube100 mm110 mm125 mm140 mm160 mm170 mm185 mm200 mmHead angle7070.57171.371.371.571.571.8Seat angle7574.874.574.37473.873.573.5Chainstay430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mm430 mmBB Drop78 mm78 mm78 mm78 mm78 mm78 mm78 mm78 mmWheelbase1,007 mm1,016 mm1,030 mm1,041 mm1,054 mm1,064 mm1,086 mm1,097 mmReach365 mm374.5 mm387 mm395.5 mm402 mm411 mm429 mm438 mmStack541 mm552 mm568 mm583 mm602 mm613 mm627 mm642 mmThe ROSE Backroad AL Spec: Capable and Well Thought-out?For the drivetrain, the Backroad AL relies on a mechanical Shimano GRX RX610 112 groupset. A 40 t chainring on the 170 mm cranks is paired with a massive 10-51t mountain bike cassette from Shimanos SLX range. This gives you a huge gear range that will confidently get you up steep climbs, even when your bikepacking bags are fully loaded. Plenty of stopping power comes courtesy of a large 180 mm brake rotor at the front, providing a welcome safety reserve, and powerful bite when you are descending with a heavy load.Clever StorageAn internal storage compartment is a real rarity in this class, especially in an aluminium frame. It offers plenty of space and even comes with a matching pouch for your puncture kit as standard.Mountain Goat ModePairing a 40 t chainring with a 10-51 t cassette, the Backroad AL gives you a more than generous gear range for the climbs.Keeping you connected to the ground are the in-house ROSE G25 aluminium wheels. These are wrapped in 45 mm Continental Terra Adventure tires, which generate an immense amount of traction and grip on rough gravel and through the corners, though they proved to be rather sluggish in our 2026 gravel tire group test. Up front, you will find a 420 mm wide ROSE Gravel aluminium cockpit.Batteries Not IncludedROSE have pre-installed a wiring harness for a power bank inside the down tube. This feeds into an integrated USB-C charging port beneath the stem to power your smartphone or GPS computer on the go.Show StopperROSE have fitted a 180 mm front rotor to compensate for the GRX brakes lack of bite, giving you crucial extra stopping power when carrying heavy touring loads.Carbon IllusionAluminium or carbon? Thanks to the exceptionally smooth, polished welds, you will barely notice a visual difference at first glance between the Backroad AL and the significantly more expensive carbon models in this group test.The ROSE Backroad AL in the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 Group Review: A Bikepacker Through and Through?Right from the first few metres, the ROSE Backroad AL welcomes you with a protective embrace, making it unmistakably clear that you are setting off on a voyage of discovery, not chasing seconds on the clock. This likable aluminium workhorse feels like the perfect partner for epic tours completely free from time pressure. The handling is ideal for beginners because it is intuitive, forgiving and predictable at all times. Thanks to its exceptional stability, paired with the high level of grip from the wide Continental tires, the bike gives you a reassuring sense of safety. It ploughs stoically over rough gravel and keeps its composure even on long, demanding descents with fully loaded bags, showing absolutely no hint of twitchiness.While the Backroad AL is not an agile sports machine for explosive sprints, once you get it up to cruising speed, it rolls along smoothly and dependably. When it comes to comfort, however, the bike reveals two distinct sides. The upright, touring-friendly geometry places you in a highly comfortable and relaxed position over long distances. However, the bike is very stiff overall, meaning that harsh impacts are passed directly on to you due to a lack of inherent frame compliance. Out-and-out comfort champions leave this bike far behind.However, the ROSE plays its absolute trump card when it comes to everyday bikepacking, and the practicality of its features. An integrated frame storage compartment in an aluminium down tube is a very welcome feature in this price bracket. The latch operates intuitively, and the storage space is generously sized. The included puncture kit pouch tucks away inside the frame completely rattle-free. Combined with the clever power bank integration, which allows you to charge your smartphone or bike computer on the handlebars directly from the frame while on the go, ROSE have put together a highly intelligent package. Tuning Tip: Swap the sluggish Continental tires for a faster-rolling model to improve your forward momentum.Who Is the ROSE Backroad AL For?The ROSE Backroad AL is the ultimate recommendation if you are new to bikepacking, or simply looking for a dependable, budget-friendly all-rounder. While it is by no means a nimble trail rocket, it is a rock-solid, faithful companion. Thanks to its generous tire clearance, abundance of mounting points and reassuring handling, it provides the perfect platform for your first big adventure, while proving just as capable for your daily commute.Helmet Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 | Glasses Shimano Equinox | Jersey Ryzon Venture Gravel Shirt Shorts Gobik Grit 3.0 Bib Short | Shoes Shimano RX910 S-PHYRE | Socks Gobik ICONConclusionsROSE have delivered a down-to-earth, no-frills interpretation of their adventure gravel platform with the Backroad AL. It scores highly for its versatility, safe handling and practical details like the integrated down tube storage compartment. However, it reveals clear weaknesses in a direct comparison. It brings up the rear as the most sluggish bike in the entire group test when accelerating, the tires roll heavily, and the stiff aluminium frame lacks any noticeable compliance. If you can overlook the lack of efficiency and responsiveness, you still get a beginner-friendly workhorse for every adventure.TopsDown tube storage in an aluminium frameAbundance of mounting pointsClean lookFlopsLack of comfortSluggish tiresFor more information, visit rosebikes.com.The test fieldThis bike was tested as part of the Best Gravel Bikes 2026 group test. You can find an overview of this group test and all other gravel bikes tested here:All bikes on test: Canyon Grizl 7 ESC | Falkenjagd Aristos GT | Rose Backroad AL | Specialized Diverge 4 Pro | Trek Checkpoint SL 7 | Trek Checkpoint+ SL7Der Beitrag Rose Backroad AL Best Gravel Bikes 2026 erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Cane Creek Cycling Components is known for its Thudbuster and eeSilk+ suspension seatposts, and today, it is adding its first rigid seatpost to its ever-growing range of products. The new GXC seatpost slots in alongside the stem of the same name, growing its line of GXC parts to offer premium upgrades that dont carry a premium price tag. As such, the alloy GXC seatpost has classy looks, a respectable weight, and sells for just $89.99.The Cane Creek GXC Seatpost in black.Cane Creek GXC Seatpost DetailsThe new GXC seatpost is made from lightweight 2014 aluminum and is topped with durable stainless-steel clamp hardware. It comes in a 350mm length with a maximum extension of 250mm in both 27.2mm and 31.6mm diameters. The GXC post weighs a claimed 236 grams in the 27.2mm size and 248 grams in 31.6mm. According to the brand, this weight falls in line with other premium alloy options and is only slightly heavier than carbon posts at triple the price.Cane Creek says that in an effort to simplify the buying process, they chose to make the GXC post in a single 10mm offset. Rather than offering it in several offsets, they feel this neutral, middle-ground offset should work for the majority of riders with the fore/aft adjustment of the saddle rails. It works with round 7mm x 7mm metal rails as well as 7mm x 9mm oval carbon rails.The GXC Seatpost comes in 10mm setback only, with a unique 3-way adjuster for the front bolt.The saddle clamp uses full stainless-steel hardware for durability with a unique 3-way adjuster. It features a special front bolt that can be adjusted in three ways: by hand, a 4mm hex, or a 16mm box-end wrench. This way, riders can access the front bolt either from the side or from the top through a saddle cutout. The front barrel nut is nested in the top of the post and hidden from view on the drive side for extra-clean looks.The GXC post comes in polished black or polished silver, and is intended to match perfectly with the GXC stem, which launched in 2024. It has subtle matte Cane Creek logos and a timeless aesthetic that should work well with just about any bike.Technical DetailsSizes: 27.2mm & 31.6mmMaterial: Premium 2014 AluminumWeight: 236g: 27.2mm | 248g: 31.6mmOffset: 10mmTotal Length: 350mmMax Extension: 250mmHardware: Full Stainless Steel with 3-Way AdjusterSaddle Rail Compatibility: Accepts round, 7mm x 7mm metal rails and oval, 7mm x 9mm carbon railsColors: Black & SilverFinish: PolishedPricing and AvailabilityCane Creeks new GXC Seatpost retails for $89.99, undercutting many of the other premium alloy seatposts on the market. It is available now from select Cane Creek dealers and retail partners, or direct from the brand through its website.canecreek.com