10 Best Gravel Bikes in Malaysia | Best of Lifestyle 2023

With its all-around capabilities both on and off the pavement, it’s easy to see why gravel bikes are getting more and more popular in the market. It gives the biker the versatility of going to any terrain they would like, which is an ideal choice whether you’re a beginner or a devoted biker wanting to go on a bikepacking trip. Plus, it’s still comfortable to ride when you’re regularly commuting to the office. With an extensive variety of gravel bikes available in the market, which then is the best gravel bikes in Malaysia? In our Best of Lifestyle series, we have curated the latest 10 Best Gravel Bikes in Malaysia, providing quality recommendations to suit your lifestyle and budget. For the ultimate lifestyle and biking guides, also check out our best mountain bike and road bike recommendations!

This article was last updated on 04 January 2023.

10 Best Gravel Bikes in Malaysia

1. Marin Gestalt 2

Good value bike with all-rounder capabilities

If you’re looking for a bike that can be comfortable for daily commuting and also can be fun for an off-road weekend trip, the Marin Gestalt 2 is the answer. Despite its affordable price, this drop bar bike is comfortable to ride on, even when you’re riding 12 hours non-stop. And it’s got features like fender, rack mounts, and Tektro MD-C500 dual-piston Disc brakes that are perfect for all-weather riding. Therefore, you don’t have to arrive at the office in dirty clothes when commuting in unfriendly weather. 

The Marin Gestalt 2 is also capable of off-pavement adventure, thanks to its Beyond Road Geometry design. Its aluminium frame can easily handle rougher terrain than a regular bike cannot, and it has a larger clearance than can make room for up to 35c tyres. Moreover, this Marin Gestalt 2 model comes with a Series 3 aluminium frame, which has a tapered steerer and full carbon fork that makes the frame feel stiffer. 

The only drawback is, it uses a Shimano Tiagra 2×10 drivetrain, which is mainly intended for mid-level road biking, although many claims it still handles light off-road trails perfectly. But considering its mid-range price offered at that many capabilities, Marin Gestalt 2 is definitely a worth model to buy.

Why buy this:

• Attractive price point
• Comfortable for a long commute
• Can handle light technical off-trails
• All-weather capabilities

2. Twitter Gravel V2

Affordable bike to enter professional cycling

For those of us who might struggle to spend dozens of thousands on a bicycle, the Twitter Gravel V2 is a great way to enter the world of professional cycling without breaking the bank. Featuring Sram Rival 22S Groupset, this gravel bike delivers immense performance on various terrains, both on and off the road. You can rely on it to go fast even for steep climbing, and it guarantees smooth and stable performance on rougher terrains such as sandy, muddy, and pebbly roads. 

Despite its budget price, Twitter Gravel V2 also features a carbon fibre frame and fork for extra durability against whatever the road might throw at you, and it also has a ZOOM hydraulic disc to ensure good stopping performances on a descent. In addition, the Twitter Gravel V2 is available in up to 8 choices of colour, so you can always find the one that suits your personal taste. 

Why buy this:

• Good value for money
• Outstanding performance in all terrains
• Sram Rival 22 speed
• 8 colours available

3. Polygon Bend R2 Gravel Bike

Ideal for multi-day backpacking adventures

Offering quality bicycles at affordable prices, the Indonesian-brand Polygon easily ascends to one of the world’s renowned bicycle brands, and this Polygon Bend R2 model is no exception. With all-around capabilities, the Bend R2 is perfect for those interested in multi-day bikepacking around the beautiful nature of Malaysia without having to struggle on certain terrains. And the best of all? It’s also super affordable with just around an RM3,000 price tag. 

Built for adventure, the Polygon Bend R2 features a lightweight ALX frame with a specific off-road geometry. On top of it off, it’s backed up with a generous tyre clearance that gives room for up to 47c tires to handle rougher terrains, and superior Tektro Mechanical Disc Brakes for confident stopping performance. Besides its off-trail ability, the Bend R2 has a taller head tube to provide a more upright riding position so you can feel comfortable on your long-distance bikepacking trips. As a bonus, you’ve also got a free bottle holder and a water bottle. 

Why buy this:

• Comfortable to ride across all terrain
• Clearance for up to 47c tires
• Bottle holder and a water bottle bonus
• Affordable for its quality

4. Polygon Heist X2

For those who mostly commute on urban road

One of the most affordable gravel bikes from Polygon, the Heist X2 still has something to offer for those looking for a versatile commuting bike on a budget. It’s super comfortable to ride for long-distance city riding and is complemented by the Shimano Altus SL-M13 shifter for quicker shifting with the ability to downshift three gears only in one stroke. 

Riding comfort aside, the Polygon Heist X2 is an urban bike with a mountain bike soul. Its AL6 alloy frame and geometry has the durability for light adventure on your local singletracks, and it has large 45c tires that will happily handle any bumpy terrain. Plus, the frame is also decently light, with only 13.9kg total weight to help you make easier ascents. 

Why buy this:

• Very affordable price from Polygon
• Super comfortable for city riding
• Can handle light off-trail singletracks
• Large 45c tyres

5. Cervélo Áspero 5 Gravel Bike

Best splurge

if you’re willing to spend more for the best gravel bike possible, the Cervelo Aspero 5 Gravel Bike is hard to overlook. While its beautiful, sleek carbon finish turns you into the star in your cycling group, Cervelo Aspero 5 is more than just looks. Designed with racing in mind, this bike’s frame is also exceptionally strong and lightweight, and it has all it needs to fulfil the need of a professional cycler or those with bigger wallets. 

This award-winning bike comes with a superb Sram Force eTap AXS 1 that guarantees lightning speed and balance performance on all terrains, a two-position adjustment Trail Mixer gives you the versatility to handle various terrains and room for up to 49c tires. To top it off, this bike records only thirty-two grams of drag that proof everything about its speedy performance. In addition, Furthermore, you’ve also got a D-shaped carbon Seatpost with the vibration-damping ability for a more comfortable riding experience. 

Why buy this:

• Premium gravel bike
• Beautiful look 
• Lightning-quick capabilities on all terrain
• Ultra-lightweight
• 49c tyres

6. Geometric Escape Apex 1 Gravel Bike

Minimal design with outstanding hills power

If you’re a rider who appreciate simple design, look no further than the Geometric Escape Apex 1 Gravel Bike. Its minimal design and clean finish allow you to ride it with pride, while the balance of performance between hills and roads give you the versatility to ride anywhere you want. In addition, you’ve got 4 colours available to find the one that suits your personality.

Looks aside, this gravel bike is a great upper-middle-range bike with all-around capabilities. With the Sram Apex groupset, you’ve got a simpler, quieter, and more secure drivetrain with a very easy shifting method. Meanwhile, the 9.7kg total weight means this is one of the most lightweight gravel bikes on this list, which can be handy when facing steep hills. The only drawback is it only has 11-speed options, but with its solid build quality, this is the bike that is made to last years. 

Why buy this:

• Clean-looking minimal design
• Lightweight
• Perform great on hilly terrains
• Smooth and quiet drivetrain

7. Canyon Grizl 6

Best mid-range

If you prepare the budget for a mid-range bike around RM6,000, the Canyon Grizl 6 offers the best value for every penny. Comes in hugely versatile capabilities, this gravel bike has some upmarket features such as a Shimano GRX RX400 that provides an extremely smooth and quiet shifting experience, while offering extra security with an integrated chain stabilizer to explore even the roughest terrain with stability. And oh, the refined aluminium frame and finish look fantastic on every terrain, making you stand out on every road. 

Versatility aside, the Canyon Grizl 6 is super comfortable to ride, with features like Selle Italia saddle and gravel-specific DT Swiss Wheels that provide better comfort and shock-absorbing capabilities on long rough roads. Planning a multi-day bikepacking trip? You can thank its fork mounts design that allows you to securely bolt anything on your fork, from extra bottles, clothing, or even a tent for your adventure. In addition, it also comes with a 6-year warranty for peace of mind. 

Why buy this:

• Best value for a mid-range bike
• Lightweight
• Beautiful design
• Features for bike-packing adventures
• 6-year guarantee

8. Canyon Endurace CF SL 8 Disc Di2

Made for comfortable long-distance riding

Like its name, Endurance, this gravel bike is made for a more comfortable riding experience. While it’s light and smooth, riding Canyon Endurance for a long-distance trip feels like a piece of cake, with an improved Seatpost that has a wider wing design and the added kink for providing huge comforts without sacrificing performance. Besides that, its VCLS 2.0 leaf Seatpost also has excellent vibration-damping capabilities that make it even more convenient to ride. 

But even if you put those comfortable features aside, the Canyon Endurance is still a top gravel bike. It’s super-fast both on and off the road, thanks to the super lightweight frame at only 7.94kg and the high-performance electronic shifting of the Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset. Plus, you’ve got an adjustable brake lever paired with BR-R8070 for better control and outstanding brakes performance that suits your personal riding style. In addition,  the DT Swiss E 1800 wheels also deliver exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio and enhanced durability. 

Why buy this:

• Super lightweight with 7.94kg
• Comfortable for long-distance riding

9. Marin Pine Mountain 1

One of the best under RM5,000

The Marin Pine Mountain 1 is a great value for a bike under RM5,000. Offering good versatility like other gravel bikes, this steel hardtail has the capabilities for a multi-day backpacking adventure. Its Sram GX gear 10 speed offers plenty of range while at the same time, has smoother shifting and securely keep the chain from slapping. Moreover, the Shimano M445 double hydraulic discs are also dependable for exploring from road to off-road terrains. 

While its external cabling design doesn’t give you a premium look, it makes easy repairing, especially when you’re travelling for days. Another drawback is, it might not be the most lightweight gravel bike out there, but many riders claimed it still has good climbing capabilities. 

Why buy this:

• Good for bikepacking
• Extreme durability
• Easy to repair

10. Marin San Anselmo DS1 Bike

Specially designed for women

Looking for a gravel bike with a specific women geometry? The Marin San Anselmo DS1 Bike is one of the best affordable options in Malaysia. But don’t be fooled by its price, this bike still has a lot to offer, from a strong and lightweight aluminium frame, a comfortable saddle, and a Shimano Tourney 2x7S that offers plenty of speed to choose from. Plus, its Dual Density Ergonomic grips is easy to grab, even if your hands are sweaty. 

Like other gravel bikes, the Marin San Anselmo DS1 also offers good versatility between on and off-road terrain. 

Why buy this:

• Specific women geometry
• Budget-saving
• Aluminium frame

FAQ

Which is the best brand for gravel bikes in Malaysia?

Offering quality gravel bikes at attractive price points, Polygon is one of the best brands for gravel bikes in Malaysia.

Where to buy a gravel bike in Malaysia?

You used to only be able to buy a gravel bike in Malaysia in retail stores, but now you can purchase them online for the ultimate convenience and even enjoy discounted prices! Lazada and Shopee are my go-to for sport and lifestyle products. It is also a great place to compare the price of gravel bikes in Malaysia. 

We hope that our guide on the 10 Best Gravel Bikes in Malaysia will help you to buy the best gravel bike in Malaysia. Do also read our other buying guides too. Please do share this along with your friends if you have found this useful. Do look forward to more buying guides that we will be releasing soon!

This post was brought to you by The Wedding Vow.

Disclosure: All opinions remain the writer’s own. There may be paid or sponsored mentions in the above article, but we believe in honesty of relationship, opinion, and identity. We will only recommend services that we have tried and tested ourselves or have done extensive research and find them to be useful recommendations. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright & disclosure policy.

To get featured on The Wedding Vow, email advertise@theweddingvowsg.com for advertising, editorial@theweddingvowsg.com for media.