Can You Ride an Ebike on Gravel?

An electric bike is one of the most versatile modes of transport around. Equipped with powerful motors and intuitive torque sensors, they assist with pedaling to help you save energy and ride for longer with less effort.

However, not all Ebikes are equal, especially when comparing road and gravel models. Road Ebikes are designed for maximum speed and efficiency on flat terrain, while gravel Ebikes provide maximum comfort and durability on gravel roads.

To help you better understand what makes a good Ebike for gravel roads, let us discuss what qualities to look for in these Ebikes and how to use them.

What Makes an Electric Bike Suitable for Gravel Riding?

Many characteristics make an Ebike suitable for gravel riding. These include the tire width, frame size, motor power, battery capacity, and braking system.

Generally, larger and wider tires are able to better absorb harsh bumps and jumps. You can also ride wide tires at a lower tire pressure than skinnier tires. This helps reduce the risk of tire punctures, especially if the tires are tubeless.

Ebikes with a moderate-to-large frame provide the most durability on rough terrain. Although step-over frames provide a bit more stability due to the presence of a top bar, cross-through frames are just as dependable on the rough.

An Ebike with a mid-drive motor is ideal for riding on gravel roads, as its high torque output makes it easy to climb steep inclines. Plus, the central motor placement helps ensure balance on gravel roads.

Hydraulic disc brakes are ideal for gravel roads, as they enable you to brake with greater precision than mechanical disc brakes. This allows you to slow down gradually, avoiding the risk of braking too aggressively and losing control.

What Should You Look for in an Ebike for Gravel Riding?

The main qualities to look for in a gravel Ebike are wide tires, a powerful motor, a high-capacity battery, and a durable suspension system. Let’s explore these qualities in greater detail.

Fast Performance

Choose an Ebike with a powerful mid-drive motor and torque sensor. Ideally, one with a power output of 500W and a torque delivery of 80 N·m or more.

The torque sensor measures your pedaling effort, meaning you receive the right amount of pedal assistance every time. Torque sensors also deliver a more natural pedal feel; the transition from pedal to motor power is more seamless, with minimal lag.

After a power Ebike for riding on gravel? Check out the Heybike ALPHA. Equipped with a 500W mid-drive motor and torque sensor, the ALPHA has a top speed of 28 mph and can produce up to 105 N·m of torque. Despite having a step-through frame, the ALPHA’s 26x4” tires and hydraulic fork ensure a comfortable ride on any gravel road.

Ebike Battery & Travel Range

Another important characteristic for gravel Ebikes is the battery. In most cases, an Ebike with a powerful motor will have a high-capacity battery. So, if your mid-drive Ebike has a 500W motor, then you can expect a battery capacity of 680 watt-hours (Wh) or more. This will enable you to travel far with minimal range anxiety.

You can, of course, opt for a lighter Ebike, one with a less powerful motor and lower-capacity battery. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to pedal harder to compensate for the weaker motor.

You can also increase your travel range by relying less on the pedal assist and throttle.

Ebike Suspension System

Next is the suspension system. In the case of riding on gravel, you’ll at least want a front hydraulic suspension fork. By using hydraulic fluid to absorb shocks and vibrations, you’ll enjoy a consistently comfortable ride on gravel terrain.

The next step up from this is a full-suspension system, which has both a front hydraulic suspension fork and rear suspension with a coil spring. A full-suspension system provides the most comprehensive shock absorption on gravel surfaces.

Tire Tread Pattern and Width

Lastly, there is the tire tread and width. Larger and wider tires are best suited for gravel.

The wide tire profile means more rubber on the ground, making it easier for you to maintain balance. You can also ride them at a lower tire pressure to improve your shock absorption. For the most optimal experience riding on gravel, choose an Ebike with a tire width of at least 3 to 4”.

Consider the tread pattern as well. An Ebike with a deep, aggressive tread pattern will evacuate debris, enhancing your traction on the gravel.

Tips for Optimizing Your Ebike for Gravel Riding

Properly riding on gravel involves more than having the right Ebike. You must also consider your riding style and the gear you bring. Here are some tips to help optimize your Ebike for gravel riding:

• Ensure your battery is charged before riding – bring a spare battery if yours is removable.
• Pump your tires to the recommended tire pressure – refer to your Ebike owner’s manual for PSI range suggestions.
• Attach fenders (mudguards) to the front and rear tires to prevent tire spray and splashback
• Ensure your drivetrain is clean and lubricated before each ride

Final Words

Riding on gravel brings many challenges to overcome. But choosing the right Ebike can make all the difference.

At Heybike, we offer a wide range of Ebikes, many of which are ideal for gravel riding. There’s the Heybike ALPHA with its powerful mid-drive motor.