When it comes to gravel bikes, the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail are two of the most popular models on the market. Both bikes are designed for off-road adventures, but they have different features that make them unique. In this article, we’ll compare the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail to help you decide which one is the right fit for your needs.
Design and Frame
The design and frame of a bike are critical factors that determine its performance and handling. Here’s a closer look at how the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail compare in these areas.
Design Aesthetics
Both the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail are beautifully designed bikes that look great on and off the road. The Rose Backroad has a sleek, minimalist design with clean lines and a matte finish. The Canyon Grail has a more distinctive look with its unique “Hover Bar” handlebar design, which gives it a futuristic appearance.
Frame Material and Construction
The Rose Backroad has a carbon fiber frame, which makes it lightweight and responsive. The frame is designed to absorb shock and vibration, providing a smooth ride even on rough terrain. The Canyon Grail also has a carbon fiber frame, but it’s made with a unique carbon layup that enhances its comfort and compliance.
Geometry and Fit
The geometry and fit of a bike are critical factors that affect its handling and comfort. The Rose Backroad has a slightly more aggressive geometry than the Canyon Grail, which makes it better suited for racing and fast-paced riding. The Canyon Grail has a more relaxed geometry that’s designed for all-day comfort on long rides.
Components and Features
The components and features of a bike are what make it stand out from the competition. Here’s a closer look at what the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail have to offer in this area.
Drivetrain and Shifting
The Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail both have high-quality drivetrains that provide smooth and reliable shifting. The Rose Backroad has a Shimano Ultegra groupset, while the Canyon Grail has a SRAM Force eTap AXS groupset. Both groupsets offer excellent performance and precision.
Brakes and Stopping Power
The Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail both have hydraulic disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power in all conditions. The Rose Backroad has Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes, while the Canyon Grail has SRAM Force hydraulic disc brakes. Both brake systems offer excellent modulation and control.
Wheelset and Tires
The Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail both come with high-quality wheelsets and tires that are designed for off-road riding. The Rose Backroad has DT Swiss C 1850 Spline wheels and Schwalbe G-One Allround tires, while the Canyon Grail has DT Swiss GRC 1650 wheels and Schwalbe G-One Bite tires. Both wheelsets and tires offer excellent traction and durability.
Suspension and Comfort
The Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail both have features that enhance their comfort and compliance. The Rose Backroad has a carbon seatpost that absorbs shock and vibration, while the Canyon Grail has a unique Hover Bar handlebar that reduces fatigue and improves comfort.
Additional Features
Both the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail come with a variety of additional features that make them even more versatile. For example, both bikes have mounts for accessories like fenders and racks, making them great options for bikepacking and touring.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance and handling, the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail are both excellent options. Here’s a closer look at how they compare in these areas.
On-road Performance
The Rose Back road and Canyon Grail both offer great on-road performance. The Rose Backroad’s aggressive geometry and responsive carbon fiber frame make it a great option for riders who want to push the limits and go fast. The Canyon Grail’s relaxed geometry and compliant carbon fiber frame make it a great option for riders who want a comfortable and stable ride.
Off-road Performance
Both the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail excel in off-road performance. The Rose Backroad’s responsive frame and excellent traction make it a great option for tackling technical terrain and steep climbs. The Canyon Grail’s compliant frame and relaxed geometry make it a great option for long-distance rides on rough terrain.
Handling and Maneuverability
The Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail both handle well and are easy to maneuver. The Rose Backroad’s aggressive geometry and responsive frame make it a great option for riders who want a nimble and quick-handling bike. The Canyon Grail’s relaxed geometry and Hover Bar handlebar make it a great option for riders who want a stable and comfortable ride.
Price and Value
The price and value of a bike are important considerations for most riders. Here’s a closer look at how the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail compare in these areas.
Price Comparison
The Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail are both high-end bikes that come with a premium price tag. The Rose Backroad starts at around $3,500, while the Canyon Grail starts at around $3,000. The price difference is largely due to the component spec and brand name.
Value for Money
Both the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail offer excellent value for money. They come with high-quality components and features that are designed to enhance the riding experience. While they may be more expensive than some other bikes on the market, the quality and performance they offer make them a great investment for serious riders.
Pros and Cons
Every bike has its pros and cons, and the Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail are no exception. Here’s a quick overview of some of the key pros and cons of each bike.
Rose Backroad
Pros:
- Sleek and minimalist design
- Lightweight and responsive carbon fiber frame
- Aggressive geometry for fast-paced riding
- High-quality Shimano Ultegra groupset
Cons:
- More expensive than some other gravel bikes
- Aggressive geometry may not be comfortable for all riders
- Limited color options
Canyon Grail
Pros:
- Unique Hover Bar handlebar design for improved comfort
- Compliant carbon fiber frame for a smooth ride
- Relaxed geometry for all-day comfort
- High-quality SRAM Force eTap AXS groupset
Cons:
- More expensive than some other gravel bikes
- Unique Hover Bar handlebar may not be comfortable for all riders
- Limited color options
Conclusion
Rose Backroad and Canyon Grail are both excellent gravel bikes that offer high-performance and comfort for serious riders. While they have some differences in terms of design and features, they both excel in off-road performance and handling. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you’re looking for a bike that’s great for fast-paced riding and racing, the Rose Backroad may be the better option. If you’re looking for a bike that’s great for long-distance rides and all-day comfort, the Canyon Grail may be the better option. Regardless of which bike you choose, you can’t go wrong with either of these excellent options.
