Bikepacking: gravel, mountain bike, or road bike – which bike should you choose for traveling?

Bikepacking is now one of the most popular ways to travel by bike for those seeking adventure, freedom, and wide-open spaces. whether you’re planning a cycling trip in France or elsewhere in Europe during spring or summer, choosing the right bike is crucial.

Among the available options—gravel bike, mountain bike, or road bike—the gravel bike stands out as the most versatile, comfortable, and bikepacking-friendly choice.

What is bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a form of self-supported cycling, with lightweight bags attached to the frame, saddle, or handlebars. unlike traditional touring, it favors mixed routes: secondary roads, trails, forest paths, and greenways.

Bikepacking allows you to travel freely, access less frequented areas, and fully enjoy nature and scenery, whether for a few days or several weeks.

Road bikes for bikepacking: fast but limited

Advantages of road bikes

Road bikes offer speed and efficiency on paved roads, which can be useful for certain stages. they are light and high-performing, ideal for riders prioritizing distance and speed.

Limitations of road bikes for bikepacking

For bikepacking, road bikes have several limitations: narrow tires that are not suited for trails, few mounting points for bags, and limited comfort on long rides. for mixed or long-distance bikepacking trips, road bikes are rarely the best choice.

Mountain bikes for bikepacking: perfect for technical terrain

Advantages of mountain bikes

Mtbs excel on rough and technical trails. their wide tires and suspension provide comfort and control on challenging terrain.

Limitations of mountain bikes

On long stages or mixed routes, mtbs are less efficient: they are heavier, slower, and more tiring. their setup can also be less practical for carrying gear in a light and organized way.

👉 Mountain bikes remain interesting for off-road bikepacking but do not offer the versatility of a gravel bike.

Gravel bikes for bikepacking: the ultimate choice

Why gravel bikes are ideal for bikepacking

Gravel bikes are currently the most suitable for bikepacking, and for good reasons:

• Versatility: paved roads, dirt paths, forest trails, and greenways.

• Comfort: wide tires (35–50 mm) and a stable geometry for long distances.

• Load capacity: multiple mounting points for bags and gear.

• Balanced efficiency: performs well even when fully loaded for several days.

• Accessible for all levels: suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

How to choose your gravel bike for bikepacking

To optimize your bikepacking experience with a gravel bike:

• Choose wide tires suitable for the terrain.

• Prepare lightweight, well-balanced bags to maintain stability.

• Opt for a drivetrain with a wide gear range to handle hills.

• Plan realistic stages, especially if it’s your first trip.

Gravel bikes turn bikepacking into a comfortable, flexible, and safe adventure suitable for all routes.

Why prioritize gravel for your bikepacking trip

Gravel bikes combine versatility, comfort, and load capacity, making them ideal for exploring France or Europe on a bikepacking trip. whether your route includes mixed terrain, scenic roads, or quiet trails, a gravel bike adapts to every situation and every rider.

Even for beginners, gravel bikes make bikepacking accessible and enjoyable without requiring complex gear or advanced technical skills. they offer the perfect balance between comfort, versatility, and efficiency, while allowing you to carry your gear safely.

While mtbs and road bikes may suit certain routes or goals, gravel bikes remain the benchmark for a successful bikepacking experience.

Final tips for a successful bikepacking trip

To make your gravel bikepacking adventure a success:

• Test your bike loaded with gear before departure to ensure comfort and proper weight distribution.

• Plan your stages and resupply points, even if you value freedom and spontaneity.

• Take care of your gravel bike: check tires, brakes, and drivetrain before each stage to avoid problems.

• Enjoy the journey: bikepacking is above all an adventure, so take time to explore landscapes and villages along the way.

Some cyclists use a backpack to carry gear or water. on short distances, this can be enough, but over time, a heavy backpack can strain your back and become uncomfortable, especially on gravel or mixed routes. for MTB trips, however, a backpack with a hydration system is often more practical for easy access to water on technical trails.

FAQ – bikepacking and gravel bikes

• What is the best bike for bikepacking?
  The gravel bike is the most versatile, comfortable, and suitable for mixed routes—perfect for bikepacking.

• Can you do bikepacking with a road bike?
  Yes, but only on paved roads with minimal gear. for true mixed-terrain bikepacking, gravel bikes are much better.

• Is a mountain bike useful for bikepacking?
  Yes, for technical trails, but less efficient on long distances and mixed routes.

• What is the best season for bikepacking?
  Spring and summer offer optimal conditions for traveling in Europe and France.

• What type of tires for gravel bikepacking?
  Tires between 38 and 45 mm are ideal, offering comfort, safety, and versatility on all types of terrain.

Want to try a gravel bike during an all-inclusive cycling trip in France and Europe?
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