Ridley

X-Trail Carbon 105 Gravel Bike

Whether you're heading out for a gravel adventure, tapping into cyclocross racing, or enjoying long rides on the road, the Ridley X-Trail Carbon 105 Complete Bike is up to the task with balanced geometry and the right materials to ensure the frame can handle whatever you throw at it with ease. It's a true all-road bike designed to crossover into various disciplines without compromise. So go ahead, extend your rides with a well-rounded mix of terrain, as this bike transitions seamlessly from road to off-road. This model comes with Shimano's sturdy 105 drivetrain complete with hydraulic disc brakes, offering comparable shifting and braking performance to Shimano's higher-end Ultegra and Dura Ace groups while being considerably friendlier on the wallet.

The X-Trail's durability and spirited ride quality are attributable to the high-modulus carbon fiber used in the frameset that is both stiff and lightweight and can handle its share of abuse. The tapered head tube and fork boost frame stiffness while the thinner seat stays deliver vertical compliance that makes dirt roads littered with washboards much more enjoyable. Thru-axles on the front and rear of the bike further improve stiffness, helping to reduce wheel flex and ensuring that the rotor and caliper stay aligned across rough terrain. The frame uses flat mounts for the brake calipers, providing a cleaner look as the calipers sit flush against the frame and fork. The Oryx Disc carbon fork stiffens the front end while allowing a bit of bump-absorption, and even has hidden fender mounts to protect both you and the bike from tire spray and grit, a nice addition for commuters and those that aren't afraid of a little bad weather.

The bike's geometry is focused on gravel, with a lower bottom bracket height than their dedicated cyclocross and road bikes, dropping your center of gravity for stability on choppy surfaces. A taller head tube and stack height create a slightly more upright riding position, improving comfort on longer rides and multi-day tours. That being said, the X-Trail is no slouch when you put the power down, as the stiff carbon frame delivers snappy acceleration while shorter chainstays preserve nimble handling. The geometry is only slightly more aggressive than its endurance road counterpart, the Fenix, but the X-Trail is able to accommodate up to 36mm wide tires for better performance on rugged terrain.

A Shimano 105 group handles shifting and braking duties, delivering precise shifts and plenty of controlled braking power for long descents. The 50/34 crankset and 11-32 cassette have a wide range, making sure you have the right gears regardless of the excursion. Fulcrum Racing wheels rolling with Vitoria Zaffiro 32mm tires are ready for a good mix of tarmac and dirt, with Ridley's in-house Forza components rounding out the cockpit.