Getting the right set up is half the battle
Getting your gravel bike set up properly makes the difference between a comfortable ride and three hours of fighting your position. Setup isn't complicated, but small adjustments matter more on mixed terrain than they do on smooth tarmac. Here's what you need to know.
A bike fit is the standard in feeling comfortable on the bike. We have a partnership with the bike fitters, so check out the details here for more information.
Start With Saddle Height
Saddle height affects everything else. Get this right first, then adjust from there.
A quick way to find your starting height is to sit on the bike with your heel on the pedal at the bottom of the stroke. Your leg should be straight but not locked. When you clip in and pedal normally, you'll have a slight bend at the knee.
**Gravel specific tip: Some riders drop their saddle 5-10mm lower than their road bike position for better stability on rough terrain. Try your road height first, then adjust if needed.
Handlebar Height and Reach
Gravel riding needs a more upright position than road racing, but not as upright as mountain biking.
How to adjust: Most gravel bikes use spacers under the stem. Move spacers above the stem to lower the bars, or below the stem to raise them. You can also flip the stem or change to a different angle.
Starting point: Bars roughly level with your saddle, or slightly below. This gives a comfortable position without too much weight on your hands.
Handlebar Width
What works: Most gravel riders suit 42-46cm bars, measured centre to centre at the hoods. Go wider if you're riding technical terrain or have broad shoulders. Go narrower for speed and comfort on smoother routes.
Warning signs: Shoulder or neck pain often indicates bars that are too wide. Feeling cramped or unstable suggests they're too narrow.
Brake Lever Position
Brake levers should sit where you can reach them comfortably from the hoods without stretching.
How to set them: Levers should angle slightly downward, roughly in line with your forearms when you're on the hoods. You should be able to pull them with two fingers without moving your hand position.
Quick check: If you're constantly adjusting your hand position to brake, your levers need moving.
Tyre Pressure
This is a topic of it’s own for gravel cyclists. For detailed pressure recommendations based on rider weight, conditions, and surface type, read our full guide: Tyre Choice and Pressures for UK Gravel
Pedals and Cleats
Cleat position affects comfort and power transfer. Small adjustments make a big difference over long rides. Position cleats so the ball of your foot sits over the pedal axle. Start with cleats centred laterally, then adjust if you feel knee strain.
SPD vs road cleats: Many gravel riders prefer mountain bike style SPD pedals for easier walking and better mud clearance.
Final Checks
Once you've made adjustments, ride a familiar loop and pay attention to how the bike feels. Setup is personal. What works for someone else might not work for you.
Warning signs:
- Numb hands: bars too low or too much weight forward
- Lower back pain: saddle too high or bars too low
- Knee pain: saddle height or fore-aft position needs adjusting
- Neck pain: bars too low or too wide
- Make one change at a time and give it at least two rides before adjusting again. Small changes add up.
Get It Right
A properly set up gravel bike feels like an extension of your body. You're not fighting the position or thinking about discomfort. You're just riding. That's when gravel gets good.
If you're struggling with setup, book a bike fit at a Ribble Service Outpost. They'll get you dialled in properly.
FAQ's
Why is gravel bike setup so important?
Gravel bike setup affects comfort, control and how long you can ride without pain. Small tweaks to saddle height, handlebar position and tyre pressure can turn a tough ride into an enjoyable three-hour spin. A good gravel bike setup reduces strain and builds confidence on mixed terrain.
What is the correct saddle height for a gravel bike?
Start with a slight bend in the knee at the bottom of the pedal stroke when clipped in. For gravel riding, a slightly lower saddle than road can improve stability on rough ground. Make small adjustments and test the saddle height on familiar gravel routes.
Should gravel bike handlebars be higher than road bikes?
Often, yes. Many riders run gravel bike handlebars level with or slightly above the saddle for a more upright position. This improves control on loose surfaces and reduces strain on hands and back on longer gravel rides.
What tyre pressure should I run on a gravel bike?
Gravel tyre pressure depends on rider weight, tyre width and terrain. Lower pressures add comfort and grip on rough gravel, while higher pressures roll faster on firm hardpack. Start lower than road pressures and adjust in small steps until the bike feels stable without excess drag.
How do I know if my gravel bike setup is wrong?
Common signs include numb hands, knee pain, neck strain or feeling unstable on descents. If you keep shifting position or feel uncomfortable after short rides, your gravel bike setup needs adjustment. Change one thing at a time, test, then refine or consider a professional bike fit
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