Gravel Endurance

Are you a beginner cyclist looking to dive into the world of gravel biking without breaking the bank? With so many options on the market, finding a quality gravel bike under £2000 can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best budget gravel bikes available in the UK in 2024. These bikes are packed with high-level components. This information will help you make an informed decision. (Prices quoted are of October 2024).

What to Look for in a Budget Gravel Bike

When shopping for a gravel bike under £2000, you’ll often see a mix of aluminium and steel frames. Sometimes, you may even find carbon frames. These are paired with solid mid-range components. Some key features to keep in mind are:

• Frame Material: Aluminium and Chromoly steel are common, but some carbon options may appear within this price range. Steel offers durability, while aluminium provides a lighter feel. Carbon offers a smoother ride but usually comes at a higher price.
• Groupset: Look for Shimano GRX, SRAM Apex, or SRAM Rival, which are gravel-specific and offer durability and good performance.
• Wheel Size: 700c wheels are standard for speed, while 650b wheels provide more grip and comfort on rough terrains.
• Tyre Clearance: Most gravel bikes offer clearance for wider tyres, improving comfort and traction on uneven surfaces.
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes are ideal for consistent performance, especially on varied terrain.

Top 5 Budget Gravel Bikes Under £2000

1. Boardman ADV 8.9 – £1,200.00

The Boardman ADV 8.9 is a fantastic entry-level gravel bike, ideal for beginners. Featuring an aluminium frame paired with a carbon fork, it offers a lightweight yet durable ride. The Shimano GRX400 groupset gives you smooth shifting, while the hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power.

• Frame: Aluminium with a carbon fork
• Groupset: Shimano GRX400 10-speed
• Tyres: 38mm tyres on 700c wheels
• Brakes: Shimano hydraulic disc brakes

This bike provides great value for money, making it perfect for riders just getting into gravel cycling. Available at Tredz.

2. Giant Revolt Advanced 2 (2024) – £1,949.00

The Giant Revolt Advanced 2 is a fantastic choice if you’re after a carbon gravel bike. It is just under the £2000 mark. Its lightweight carbon frame ensures a smooth ride, while the Shimano GRX RX-400 groupset delivers reliable shifting. The bike also boasts plenty of clearance for wider tyres, making it an ideal choice for mixed terrain rides.

• Frame: Carbon
• Groupset: Shimano GRX RX-400
• Tyres: 45mm tyre clearance on 700c wheels
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes

The Giant Revolt offers comfort and adaptability. It is ideal for long-distance riders seeking a premium feel. They can enjoy this without exceeding their budget. Check it out here.

3. Cannondale Topstone 2 (2023) – £1,800.00

The Cannondale Topstone 2 is well-known for its versatility and comfort. With a lightweight aluminium frame and full carbon fork, this bike is built for adventure. Its Shimano GRX 600 groupset ensures smooth gear transitions. The 47mm tyre clearance allows for plush, grippy tyres that perform well on rugged paths.

• Frame: Aluminium
• Groupset: Shimano GRX 600 11-speed
• Tyres: 47mm clearance on 650b wheels
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes

Ideal for both bikepacking and weekend rides, this bike provides superb handling on all terrains. View more details here.

4. Orro Terra C GRX610 RR9 (2024) – £1,750.00

The Orro Terra C is one of the best carbon gravel bikes under £2000, designed for comfort over long distances. The Shimano GRX610 groupset is perfect for gravel riding, offering precise shifting. Its carbon frame ensures excellent vibration absorption, making it ideal for riders looking to reduce fatigue on rough terrain.

• Frame: Carbon
• Groupset: Shimano GRX610 11-speed
• Tyres: 700c with 45mm clearance
• Brakes: Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes

For a lightweight and responsive ride, this model is a strong contender in the sub-£2000 category. Available at Tredz.

5. Marin Gestalt XR Apex (2024) – £1,999.00

The Marin Gestalt XR Apex excels in off-road conditions. Its SRAM Apex 1×11 gearing ensures smooth shifting on steep climbs. Its aluminium frame, combined with a carbon fork, offers a lightweight but durable ride. This bike also comes equipped with 47mm WTB tyres, making it perfect for rougher trails.

• Frame: Aluminium with a carbon fork
• Groupset: SRAM Apex 1×11
• Tyres: 47mm on 700c wheels
• Brakes: SRAM hydraulic disc brakes

This bike has a robust build. It offers excellent off-road performance. It is ideal for adventure riders looking to tackle more technical terrain. View more details here.

Additional Considerations When Buying a Gravel Bike

• Finance Options: Many UK retailers offer finance plans. These plans help spread the cost of your new gravel bike over several months. For instance, Tredz offers finance plans starting at around £22.90 per month, depending on the bike.
• Bike Fit: It’s essential to get the right size bike for your body. Many gravel bikes come in a range of sizes. Some even have women’s specific designs. The Liv Devote 1 provides a tailored fit for female cyclists.
• Accessories: Make sure your new gravel bike is compatible with essential accessories. You will need mudguards, pannier racks, and extra bottle cages for longer rides.

Conclusion

Gravel bikes under £2000 offer excellent value for beginner riders. They are also suitable for intermediate riders. These bikes allow you to experience the freedom of mixed-terrain cycling. Whether you’re into bikepacking or adventure riding, options like the Boardman ADV 8.9 offer excellent choices. You might just want a reliable ride for weekend gravel routes. Options like the Boardman ADV 8.9, Giant Revolt Advanced 2, and Cannondale Topstone 2 provide an excellent balance of quality, performance, and affordability.

If you’ve recently bought a gravel bike or are in the market for one, we’d love to hear your experience! Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below.

Before you finish your bike-hunting, don’t miss our latest guide aimed specifically at seasoned riders: ‘The 5 Best Gravel Bikes under £2,000 for Cyclists Over 50 in the UK,’ published in July 2025. Whether you’re rekindling your love for cycling or venturing into gravel with more experience, this companion post zeroes in on bikes built for comfort, stability, and smart value—quintessential for older cyclists looking to ride strong and ride smart. If that sounds like your ride, be sure to take a read—you might just find a model that fits your rhythms and routes perfectly!