The trends that defined gravel bikes in 2026, and our 2026 Gravel Bike of the Year shortlist

From BikeRadar.com

By Ashley Quinlan

Our nominees reflect how racy gravel bikes have come of age and how a new wheel size looms over the category

Gravel bikes have matured rapidly over the past few years, and nowhere is that more apparent than the contenders for 2026 Gravel Bike of the Year.

While the category continues to cater for everything from bikepacking adventures to racing, this year’s launches show a growing consensus around what makes a truly capable modern gravel bike.

In particular, gravel race bikes have come of age. Rather than simply adapting cyclocross bikes or endurance road platforms, manufacturers are now designing purpose-built machines that are faster by being more stable and more versatile than ever .