Originally Posted by
Spoonrobot
There's nothing inherently more comfortable about a gravel bike frame versus a road bike or endurance road bike frame. In reality most gravel bikes are significantly less comfortable than a comparable road bike because they feature larger diameter tubing formed for strength/durability which adds significant stiffness as does the oversized headtubes/steerers.
A road bike that fits 32s is much more comfortable than a gravel bike on 32s. Hell the gravel bike I won is as stiff and possibly stiffer than the track bike I own.
Huh?.
First of all, a gravel bike will have a stack measurement thay sets up the handlebars up to 2 inches higher than a road bike for a more comfortable riding position on long day rides that are more common on gravel bikes. (more comfortable)
Second, Gravel bike frames are built to be stiff laterally, but have much more vertical compliance to absorb road vibration. (Take a back view if a Warbird for example) (more comfortable)
Third, Gravel bikes can accomodate tires up to 40 or more MM, while few road bikes can fit even 32mm (more comfortable)
Fourth, gravel bikes ALL are built for Disc brakes, and until recently almost all road bikes came with caliper brakes (Maybe not more comfortable, but certainly easier on your hands on a long decent)
Fifth, gravel bikes normally have a longer wheelbase and slacker head angle compared to a road bike. This adds to comfort and creates stability, where road bikes have shorter wheelbases and steerer head angles for quicker maneuverability. (more comfortable)
And sixth, gravel bike riding is cool and growing fast while road bikes are a dying category!