Gravel bikes are being questioned again as the introduction of the Ridley Ignite GTX sparks discussion, with some viewing it as a drop bar, off-road bicycle equipped with a hard-tail suspension system similar to mountain bikes.

The cycling world is abuzz with excitement as Ridley unveils its latest creation, the Ignite GTX. This innovative gravel bike, inspired by the Ignite SLX hardtail, is set to redefine the boundaries of off-road cycling.

At its core, the Ignite GTX is designed for the rugged demands of gravel racing and adventure riding. With its mountain bike geometry, the bike offers a stable and agile ride, perfect for tackling technical terrain. The Ritchey Venturemax handlebar, featuring a 24-degree flare and a short drop, provides excellent control on those challenging sections.

Connor Sens, the 2023 Australian Gravel Champion and an Australian racecar driver, believes that the advancements in bike technology will revolutionise the way we ride. He predicts that gravel races will become increasingly technical, with more single track sectors being added to the courses. Sens also welcomes the growing diversity and choice in gravel bikes, which he sees as a positive development for the sport.

The Ignite GTX is available in four different build options, including Sram and Shimano GRX 800 builds, ensuring that every rider can find a configuration that suits their needs. The bike can accommodate up to 29 x 2.3" knobby tyres, providing excellent traction and stability on various terrains.

One unique feature of the Ignite GTX is its mullet setup, with a 27.5" rear wheel and a 29" wheel up front in some builds. This setup offers a balance between speed and manoeuvrability, making the bike ideal for both fast racing and technical singletrack.

The Ignite GTX is not just a bike for gravel racing, though. It's a bike for ultra-racing, bikepacking, and extreme adventure riding. Its robust design and versatile features make it a perfect companion for those seeking the thrill of the unknown.

The growing merger of mountain bikes and gravel bikes is a trend that Connor Sens is particularly excited about. He sees more aerodynamic and dual-suspension mountain bikes being used in gravel races, which he believes will push the boundaries of the sport even further.

The release of the Ignite GTX and similar bikes is a testament to the continued growth and diversification of the gravel discipline. With its innovative design and versatile features, the Ignite GTX is truly a trailblazer in the world of alpine gravel biking.

Gravel bikes are being questioned again as the introduction of the Ridley Ignite GTX sparks discussion, with some viewing it as a drop bar, off-road bicycle equipped with a hard-tail suspension system similar to mountain bikes.