# Gravel bike vs mountain bike

> A gravel bike is faster on roads and smooth dirt and great for long distances. A hardtail mountain bike has suspension and wider tyres, so it's more capable and confident on rough, rooty trails.

| | Gravel bike | Mountain bike |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Mixed rides on tarmac, gravel roads and forest paths; Bikepacking and weekend adventures; One bike that can commute, train and explore | Forest roads, fire roads and flowing trails; Beginners who want to learn mountain biking without spending a fortune; Cross-country racing and fast climbing |
| Skip it if | You only ever ride smooth tarmac and want maximum speed | You ride rough, rocky or steep trails most of the time |
| Entry-level | under €/$1,100 | under €/$900 |
| Mid-range | €/$1,100–3,000 | €/$900–2,500 |
| Performance | €/$3,000+ | €/$2,500+ |
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL | S, M, L, XL |

## FAQ

### Is a gravel bike better than a mountain bike?

A gravel bike is faster on roads and smooth dirt and great for long distances. A hardtail mountain bike has suspension and wider tyres, so it's more capable and confident on rough, rooty trails.

### Which is cheaper, a gravel bike or a mountain bike?

A good mountain bike is usually cheaper. Entry-level gravel bikes cost under €/$1,100 and mountain bikes under €/$900; mid-range €/$1,100–3,000 vs €/$900–2,500.

### Can a gravel bike do what a mountain bike does?

Partly. A gravel bike isn't ideal if you only ever ride smooth tarmac and want maximum speed. A mountain bike isn't ideal if you ride rough, rocky or steep trails most of the time.

Guides: https://pedaloracle.com/bikes/gravel-bikes/ · https://pedaloracle.com/bikes/hardtail-mountain-bikes/ · Source: https://pedaloracle.com/compare/gravel-bike-vs-mountain-bike/