TECH TALK
RAND-FRIENDLY RAMBLER Avalanche Roam | RRP R34 990 | avalanchebikes. co. za This full-carbon gravel bike for under R35K immediately caught our attention. Weighing approximately 9.4kg, its carbon frame, fork, seatpost and integrated handlebar and stem create a lightweight, cohesive package focused on speed and comfort. A widerange L-TWOO drivetrain with an 11-50T cassette tackles steep climbs and fast gravel stretches, while hydraulic disc brakes provide confident control. Tubeless-compatible alloy wheels and 40mm gravel tyres add versatility across mixed terrain. A carbon seatpost with micro-adjustment further enhances comfort and compliance. The Roam also offers thoughtful mounting and component choices for adventure riding, while its clean design gives it plenty of visual appeal. Most importantly, it combines genuine performance, premium materials and excellent value, backed by service and support across Southern Africa.
SMOOTH OPERATOR
Specialized S-Works Diverge 4 | RRP R270 000 | specialized. com
The Diverge has been a gravel category leader for the Californian brand whose bikes seem to evolve faster than most. The S-Works Diverge 4 takes the recipe to another level, pairing Specialized’ s lightest FACT 12r carbon lay-up with 20mm of hydraulically damped Future Shock 3.3 suspension and the innovative SWAT 4.0 system, offering class-leading internal storage. Revised geometry, featuring a lower bottom bracket and slacker head angle, combined with neat integrated cable routing, inspires confidence across unpredictable surfaces. The 12r lay-up sheds 200g versus the 9r frame, bringing the painted size 56 frame down to just 950g, and the suspension travel takes the sharp sting out of rough gravel chatter without compromising pedalling efficiency. Clearance for 50mm tyres – or even 2.2-inch MTB rubber – adds serious off-road capability, while Roval Terra CLX III wheels and cockpit, SRAM RED XPLR and a Ceramic Speed bottom bracket round out a flagship build claimed at 8.2kg.
PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED
Note: Prices are specification-dependent; prices shown reflect the bikes as pictured.
26 | GRAVEL BIKE