Gravel bikes emerged as a natural evolution of road bikes, offering increased tire clearance and versatility that quickly made them popular. Initially similar to cyclocross bikes, they have gradually become more like mountain bikes, bridging the gap between different cycling disciplines.
In the world of bikepacking, the differences between a mountain bike and a gravel bike have become increasingly subtle. Many riders opt for hybrid solutions, using MTB frames with drop bars or vice versa, depending on the terrain and riding style. This convergence of the two disciplines is the result of both technological advancements and shifts in cyclists’ preferences.
Mountain biking has followed a similar trajectory over the past thirty years. While 1.9-inch tires were once considered standard, today it’s rare to see anything below 2.2 inches. High-level competitions confirm this trend: during his Olympic victory in Paris, Tom Pidcock rode on 2.4-inch tires.
The evolution of gravel tires is also driven by the agility of frame manufacturers. While large brands require entire seasons to redesign a frame, niche builders can experiment more freely, quickly adapting their models to new trends. This artisanal approach mirrors the early days of mountain biking in the 1980s, when small workshops rapidly developed innovative solutions.
In recent years, gravel tire sizes have steadily increased. Initially, 35mm was considered the ideal width, but 38mm soon became the standard. Then, 40mm took over as the dominant choice. Now, the shift toward 50mm tires is becoming increasingly evident.
Monster bikes, like the Daccordi Annibale—once considered extreme and almost eccentric design exercises by niche manufacturers—are becoming more common. Some even believe they will completely replace traditional gravel bikes in the future.
In the world of competitive gravel racing, events like Unbound are already embracing MTB-style tire widths. Athletes such as Payson McElveen and Lachlan Morton have competed on 2.25-inch and 2.1-inch tires, respectively.
With this rapid evolution, cyclists looking to keep up with new trends may need to upgrade their bikes. Many current frames are optimized for tires up to 44mm, which could limit upgrade options. While some models can accommodate 50mm tires, there is a high risk of compatibility issues, especially in muddy conditions, as insufficient clearance may cause dirt buildup around the tire.
But why opt for wider tires? Our Daccordi Annibale was designed for aggressive gravel riding, where classic dirt roads often turn into rugged trails with rocks and roots. Another important factor to consider is bikepacking. When carrying extra weight on the bike, tires remain compressed, reducing their ability to absorb bumps and vibrations. Wider tires significantly help in this regard.
However, one key consideration remains: the potential loss of rolling efficiency with 50mm tires due to increased contact with the ground. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the best solution depends on finding the right balance between comfort, traction, and efficiency based on individual needs.
