Gravel bike vs road bike: what are the key differences?

Both have drop bars but is that where the similarities begin and end?

Image shows a road bike on the left and a gravel bike on the right.
(Image credit: Anna Abram)

Depending on the models in question, the differences between a gravel bike and a road bike can be like comparing apples to oranges. However it can also be akin to a Braeburn versus a Granny Smith, or a navel matched against a Valencia. In other words, the differences can be clear for all to see, or they can be far more nuanced. 

And that’s where we’ll start...

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