Tech Deep Dive: Inside the Bikes of the UCI Gravel World Championships 2025

October 14, 2025 01:51PM

This Year’s UCI Gravel World Championships showcased not only athletic prowess but also a captivating display of cycling technology. While the Men’s Elite race concluded without the controversies seen in prior events, discussion continues among enthusiasts regarding equipment choices and the very definition of ‘gravel’ racing.

Tom Pidcock‘s Pinarello: A Unique Setup

All eyes were on Tom Pidcock leading into the competition,and for good reason. Fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Lombardia monument, Pidcock took to the start line on a custom Pinarello Dogma F GR-a bike he stated he hadn’t ridden prior to race day. This arrangement stems from Pidcock’s unique sponsorship situation: he’s contractually obligated to race Scott bikes with his Q36.5 trade team on paved roads, but switches to Pinarello as soon as the terrain turns to gravel, thanks to the ownership structure of his team’s title sponsor, Q36.5.

Pidcock’s bikes featured a SRAM red AXS XPLR groupset, paired with a 50-tooth chainring and a Wolf Tooth chain guide. The prevalence of Wolf Tooth components throughout the race underscored the brand’s important presence in the gravel market.He opted for Vittoria Terreno T10 Pro tires in a limited-edition caramel colorway, sparking debate among fans regarding its aesthetic appeal.

Florian Vermeersch

What specific bike components or technologies were crucial to Tom Pidcock’s victory at the UCI Gravel World Championships?

Tom pidcock and co-Featured Stars Shine at UCI Gravel Worlds: A Showcase of Top Bikes and Riders

Pidcock’s Dominance and the Rise of gravel Racing

Tom Pidcock’s victory at the 2024 UCI Gravel World Championships in Treviso, Italy, wasn’t just a win for the young British star; it was a statement. A statement about his versatility, his tactical acumen, and the growing legitimacy of gravel racing as a major discipline within cycling.The event, held on October 7th, 2024, showcased not only elite athletes but also the cutting-edge gravel bikes and technology fueling their performances. Pidcock, riding for Ineos Grenadiers, outmaneuvered a stacked field, including Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert, demonstrating a mastery of the challenging terrain. This victory cemented his position as a multi-disciplinary threat, capable of competing at the highest level across road, cyclocross, and now, gravel.

Key Riders and Performances at UCI Gravel Worlds 2024

Beyond Pidcock’s headline-grabbing win, several other riders delivered standout performances.

* Mathieu van der poel: Despite a mechanical issue that hampered his race, Van der poel’s aggressive riding style kept him in contention throughout.His presence underscored the increasing crossover between cyclocross and gravel disciplines.

* Wout van Aert: Another cyclocross superstar, Van Aert, finished respectably, showcasing his adaptability to the demands of gravel racing.

* Sofia Guerrini: The Italian rider secured a historic victory in the women’s race, demonstrating the growing depth of talent in women’s gravel cycling.

* Pauline Ferrand-Prévot: A multiple world champion across multiple disciplines, Ferrand-prévot’s strong showing highlighted the appeal of gravel to elite female cyclists.

These performances weren’t just about individual strength; they were a testament to the strategic team support and the advanced equipment each rider utilized. The competition was fierce, with riders battling not only each other but also the demanding course – a mix of gravel roads, rolling hills, and technical sections.

The Bikes of the Gravel Elite: A Technological Deep Dive

The 2024 UCI Gravel world Championships served as a showcase for the latest in gravel bike technology. Several brands were prominently featured, each offering unique advantages.

* Pinarello (Pidcock’s Bike): Pidcock rode a modified Pinarello Grevil+, known for its compliance and ability to handle rough terrain. Key features included wider tire clearance and a relaxed geometry optimized for long-distance comfort and control.

* Cannondale (Van der Poel’s Bike): Van der Poel opted for a Cannondale Topstone, a bike renowned for its lightweight frame and responsive handling.

* Specialized (Van aert’s Bike): Van Aert chose a Specialized Diverge, celebrated for its Future Shock suspension system, designed to absorb vibrations and improve rider comfort.

Beyond the frame material (carbon fiber being the dominant choice), key technological trends included:

1. Wider Tire Clearance: Allowing riders to run lower tire pressures for increased grip and comfort. Tire choice was crucial, with many opting for 40-45mm tires with aggressive tread patterns.
2. Suspension Systems: Front suspension, like Specialized’s Future Shock, and even limited rear suspension, are becoming increasingly common to mitigate fatigue on rough surfaces.
3. 1x Drivetrains: Simplified gearing systems, offering a wider range of ratios while reducing weight and complexity. SRAM and Shimano both featured prominently.
4. Integrated Cockpits: Streamlined handlebar and stem combinations for improved aerodynamics and aesthetics.

Gravel Racing equipment: Beyond the Bike

The equipment choices extended beyond the bike itself. Riders prioritized:

* Wheelsets: Lightweight carbon fiber wheelsets were the norm, optimized for both aerodynamics and durability.

* Tires: As mentioned, tire choice was critical, with brands like Pirelli, Vittoria, and Schwalbe battling for dominance.

* Cycling Computers: Devices from Garmin and Wahoo provided real-time data on speed, power, heart rate, and navigation.

* Hydration Systems: Staying hydrated was paramount,with riders utilizing a combination of bottle cages and hydration packs.

* Protective Gear: Helmets, gloves, and eyewear were essential for safety and comfort.

The Growing Appeal of Gravel Cycling: why the Surge in Popularity?

Gravel cycling has experienced explosive growth in recent years,and the UCI Gravel World Championships are a prime example of this trend. Several factors contribute to its appeal:

* Accessibility: Gravel roads offer a more accessible alternative to paved roads, opening up new routes and adventures.

* Adventure: Gravel riding encourages exploration and a sense of freedom.

* Community: The gravel cycling community is known for its inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere.

* Versatility: Gravel bikes are capable of handling a wide range of terrain, making them a versatile option for