Gravel vs MTB for Long-Distance Bikepacking

0:00 – Introduction
0:59 – Tire Clearance
4:14 – Suspension fork options
6:31 – Brakes options
8:33 – Geometry
10:31 – Gear ratio
12:58 – New Video coming up
14:13 – Conlusion

Gravel vs MTB for Long-Distance Bikepacking: Which is Best for Epic Adventures?

In this video, I dive into the pros and cons of using a gravel bike versus a mountain bike for long-distance bikepacking adventures. Both bikes have their strengths, but which one truly shines when you’re tackling multi-day rides, tough terrain, and carrying gear for the long haul?

I’ll cover important factors like:

Tire clearance: How each bike handles wider tires for more comfort and grip.
Braking options: A comparison of braking systems and what’s best for long-distance, off-road rides.
Geometry: How the geometry of gravel bikes vs MTB affects comfort, control, and handling over extended distances.

Whether you’re prepping for a major event or just curious about which bike suits your adventure style, this breakdown will help you decide which one is right for your next big ride!

[MLRomo]

First time watcher. When you said you respect out time and told us up front your choice without dragging it out ...I was like..ok I like this guy! Subscribed and video liked! 👍

[johnholcomb]

Thank you for going straight to the conclusion and then explaining how you got there

[charliebamford]

I very much like riding my (very mild) gravel bike on mild terrain. I find my (very nice) MTB cumbersome on the same terrain. We have to be careful not to extrapolate these feelings to very different circumstances - heavy loads, very rough terrain, multi-day riding. Your video made these points very well. We also have to remember that most of us are just regular people, not pro-racers. Keep up the good work!

[frankducett]

Your knowledge is practical.
I do not listen to anything but practical advice born from experience and, without any smelly commercial motivation.
Where's the LIKE TWICE button.
Thank you.
77 and riding continuously since 1972.😊

[hermannkaimann]

Just started Bikepacking and I thought that my old MTB would be bad, I almost sold it and bought a Gravel one, until I saw this video, thanks a lot, subscribed for sure!!

[Rbplymouth]

Just saw you today for first time. Planning 2026 divide ride. Your experience and knowledge of what gear just works is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you and Godspeed on your new channel!

[cmortimernz]

Another great video, keep it up. I was riding the Tour Aotearoa (New Zealand) last year with a mate. Both on MTB's and had many discussions about this topic. Totally agree with your points.

[GrimTTL]

Best video on this topic I have seen. Backed up by actually using the two. Really helpful thanks.

[duraath]

i love the nice edit touch of the camera zooming in to you when you highlight the reasons. instant sub!

[LeyCastillo]

You had me at "I respect your time.." Subscribed! Very nice insights, specially for someone like me who is trying to explore this side of the spectrum. Thank you and more power!

[todd]

Hardtail with Surly corner bar, Mezcals, redshift suspension seatpost and locked out fork has become the most versatile bike I have. It will really do it all now.

[xavierciscar]

Another first time watcher here. An excited one, I must say, because you told point by point all my reasons to recommend an MTB XC instead of a gravel bike in most cases, specially for long bikepacking trips.

Suscribed, liked the video and commented. Keep going!Greetings from Spain!

[ross]

This is a good video--straight up advice from someone who's been there. Thanks.

[BigShtsie]

I was worried I wasn't going to like my Fargo after this, but then you describes my Fargo as the perfect bike.

[Soundchain]

Thorough, frank and meaningfully informative. Thanks.

[PhillipRowland-rv]

Great video, giving great advice which made a lot sense, learnt from your vast experience in bike packing.Liked and subscribed, thank you

[thisorthat]

Thank you for stating your preference up front. I stayed to listen to your reasons and agree with what you said. Keeping my old MTB for offroad bikepacking trips. Cheers.

[Wanderin-Wheels]

Hi =) nice sincere explanation ❤️
I’m a 70’s Shinamo racing cyclist who hated skinny tires and aching body bend riding those racing bikes. Yes, it’s for race, speed and aerodynamics matter. When mountain bike came around, it’s a game changer but then I lost speed because of the knobby tires =( However, I gain comfort and better control on tricky terrains. So, your explanation makes total sense for those who was confused of what to own. I’m not a racer and I don’t do stunt on my bikes now…. which is why I felt ATB (all terrain bike) are the best for those who want good ride but not into tricky mountain tracks but rather than a bike that can handle anything that’s within your means. So for those who’s not clear of your riding choices, try anything you can lay your hand on and work it out from there. Fat tires with smoother threads and abit upright sitting position together with some big cogs are my best riding comfort for touring and semi off road.

[Yami_nK]

I'm not sure how your channel managed to end up in my feed, but I sure am glad it did. Cheers man!

[Apachegroove]

Merci pour le vidéo! Ton approche est claire et directe et c'est hyper apprecié!!