{"id":42802,"date":"2024-01-22T15:08:11","date_gmt":"2024-01-22T15:08:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/?p=42802"},"modified":"2024-01-22T15:08:13","modified_gmt":"2024-01-22T15:08:13","slug":"elevate-your-ride-the-best-gravel-bike-upgrades-for-better-performance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/elevate-your-ride-the-best-gravel-bike-upgrades-for-better-performance\/","title":{"rendered":"Elevate Your Ride: The Best Gravel Bike Upgrades for Better Performance!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Many of our customers and staff have opted to upgrade their gravel bikes, including this recent modification to Mike&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/merlin-malt-g2x-grx-gravel-bike-2024-197443.html\">Merlin Malt G2X<\/a> making it a flat bar gravel bike! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1431\" height=\"500\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Untitled-2-30.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44718 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1431px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1431\/500;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To enhance your gravel biking experience and take your ride to the next level, consider these top-notch upgrades that promise improved performance, comfort, and style!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Up first we have the&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/search?w=Dropper+&amp;seatpost_diameter=27-2mm,30-9mm,31-6mm\"><strong>Dropper Seatpost<\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42875 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1600px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1600\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Increased manoeuvrability on technical descents, improved control, and the ability to quickly adjust saddle height for varying terrains.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/road-bike-handlebars-75312\/?discipline=gravel&amp;material=carbon\"><strong>Carbon Handle<\/strong><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/road-bike-stems-75314\/?material=carbon\"><strong>bars<\/strong> <strong>and Stem <\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1347\" height=\"431\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-20.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42868 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1347px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1347\/431;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reduced weight, improved shock absorption for a smoother ride, and increased stiffness for better handling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/road-bike-groupsets-75294\/?discipline=gravel\"><strong>Groupset<\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1347\" height=\"359\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-17.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42860 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1347px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1347\/359;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Improved stopping power, especially in wet or muddy conditions, and enhanced control on descents. Weight savings, better shifting and a smoother ride.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Installation might require technical expertise, and high-performance brake systems can be pricier.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/factory-road-disc-wheels-92604\/?discipline=gravel&amp;material=carbon\"><strong>Carbon Wheelset<\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1347\" height=\"314\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-19.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42865 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1347px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1347\/314;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reduced rotational weight for quicker acceleration, improved responsiveness, and enhanced overall bike performance. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/road-bike-groupsets-75294\/?discipline=gravel&amp;sort=price-max\"><strong>Electronic Shifting System<\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1347\" height=\"448\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-22.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42873 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1347px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1347\/448;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Precise and consistent shifting, customization options, and potential reduced maintenance compared to traditional cable systems.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/cyclocross-gravel-tyres-75333\/?tyre_type=clincher-tubeless,tubeless,tubeless-ust-\"><strong>Tubeless Tyres<\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1347\" height=\"359\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-18.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42863 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1347px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1347\/359;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Enhanced puncture resistance, lower tyre pressure options for better traction, and a smoother, more comfortable ride.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/inner-tubes-75337\/?brand=tubolito\"><strong>Tubolito&#8217;s <em>Lightweight<\/em> Inner Tubes<\/strong><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"600\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42878 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1600px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1600\/600;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prefer the trusty inner tube over tubeless? No problem! You can still make some gains in performance with your tube choice&#8230; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Much lighter than a standard tube and around 75% smaller to take up the least amount of space in your pack or jersey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As robust as a standard butyl tube<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Removable valve stem maximise space saving.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Same rolling resistance as a latex tube.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/cyclocross-gravel-tyres-75333\/\"><strong><em>Terrain-Specific Tyre<\/em> <em>Tread <\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1366\" height=\"359\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-16.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42858 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1366px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1366\/359;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tailored tread patterns for optimal performance on gravel surfaces, improved grip, and enhanced rolling efficiency. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You can make sure you have enough grip or the right amount of tread to reduce rolling resistance depending on your terrain choice. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your tyre tread choice can make a great deal of difference in your confidence on the gravel bike as well as your average speed! <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Finding the perfect tyre for your riding conditions may take some experimentation and comparisons, be sure to read up on the recommended terrain for each one!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/road-bike-saddles-75315\/?sort=bestseller\"><strong><em>Saddle<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1347\" height=\"297\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Untitled-1-21.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42871 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1347px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1347\/297;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Enhanced comfort on long rides means reduced fatigue, and minimized pressure points for a more enjoyable experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Saddle preference is highly subjective, and finding the perfect fit may require trying out different models.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/road-bike-handlebar-tape-75318\/\"><em>Handlebar tape the ultimate low cost upgrade?<\/em><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1431\" height=\"500\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Untitled-2-33.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44753 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1431px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1431\/500;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>As well as a good opportunity to colour co-ordinate your machine, well-cushioned bar tape can alleviate achy wrists through reducing road buzz vibrations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/mtb-handlebars-81186\/\"><strong><em>Flat Bars?!<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1431\" height=\"500\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Untitled-2-31.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44738 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1431px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1431\/500;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned at the start of this blog, flat bars can be an option perhaps for those who prefer the confidence on more challenging terrain which a pair of flat handlebars provide. Some argue flat bars make a gravel bike turn into a mountain bike, but whatever you want to call it after this mod, the choice is yours&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mike&#8217;s Tips to consider for this modification of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/merlin-malt-g2x-grx-gravel-bike-2024-197443.html\">Malt G2X<\/a>: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;You might want to fit a shorter stem with your bars, the shifter I used was 11 speed XT 8000 (will work with GRX Rear mech.) <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are not running 11 speed then I suspect a new rear MTB mech (or grx rear mech) and shifter will needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Any MTB post mount disc brake will work (cable or hydro), you will need flat to post mount adaptors sized to the rotors being used.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Upgrading your gravel bike can be rewarding, enhancing both your bike&#8217;s aesthetics and performance. As you consider these upgrades, keep in mind your riding style, preferences, and the terrains you frequent.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Many of our customers and staff have opted to upgrade their gravel bikes, including this recent modification to Mike&#8217;s Merlin Malt G2X making it a flat bar gravel bike! To enhance your gravel biking experience and take your ride to the next level, consider these top-notch upgrades that promise improved performance, comfort, and style! Up [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":44750,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[68,69,4],"tags":[3719,4243,3852,4546,1984,3262,3002,2629,2709,2312,3672,2710,1318,2113],"ppma_author":[4638],"class_list":["post-42802","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cycling-buyers-guides","category-cycling-how-to-guides","category-news","tag-1x-gravel","tag-2023-gravel","tag-alloy-gravel","tag-best-gravel-bikes","tag-bike-upgrade","tag-bike-upgrades","tag-carbon-gravel-bike","tag-cycling-upgrade","tag-cycling-upgrades","tag-spring-upgrade","tag-upgrade-bike","tag-upgrade-parts","tag-upgrades","tag-wheel-upgrade","author-alex"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Elevate Your Ride: The Best Gravel Bike Upgrades for Better Performance! 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