Cyclocross or gravel/adventure road

[thunderlips76]

hi there,

Local cycling club is mostly made up of MTB guys. I kinda want to join in on this off-road fun but don’t want to go full MTB. I’d rather have a road capable bike as a winter commuter. So what’s better for keeping up with MTBs? Cyclocross or gravel? Budget is limited to around 800 quid.

 

[vickster]

Cyclocross, gravel aren't so suitable for real muck. Look at Merlin

https://www.merlincycles.com/merlin-x20-tiagra-cyclocross-bike-2018-108754.html?source=PHG

Change the tyres for the road as even knobbly CX tyres are draggy on the road ime

But if you want to MTB, just get a hardtail, you don't need to spend £800...change the tyres for the road. Winter is almost over anyhow.
Any multiuse bike is going to be compromised for some of those uses

 

[Spiderweb]

Cyclocross would be better, more clearance for mud, higher bottom bracket etc but if you want to use it as a winter commuter then you will probably want mounts for both pannier rack and decent fixed mudguards. Proper cyclocross bikes won’t have these, Gravel bikes likely will.
Planet X is not too far from Barnsley and worth looking at.
https://www.planetx.co.uk/c/q/bikes/gravel-adventure-bikes

 

[Cycleops]

CX bikes will have a more aggressive geometry thus more racey position and sharper steering. Gravel bike will be more relaxed with a longer wheelbase, like a tourer.
Plenty of choice of either around £800.
Keeping up with your mates MTBs will be up to your legs .

 

[tom73]

Cyclocross would be better, more clearance for mud, higher bottom bracket etc but if you want to use it as a winter commuter then you will probably want mounts for both pannier rack and decent fixed mudguards. Proper cyclocross bikes won’t have these, Gravel bikes likely will.
Planet X is not too far from Barnsley and worth looking at.
https://www.planetx.co.uk/c/q/bikes/gravel-adventure-bikes

It was but they have now closed the showroom.

 

[User169]

Cyclocross would be better, more clearance for mud

Most gravel/adventure bikes can take wider tyres than a CX bike. Is there someting else that determines mud clearance?