Gravel bike from the discounter: The Prophete Graveler for 699 euros on test - no joke!
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Text: Matthias Fischer, Jens Klötzer
Gravel bikes are considered versatile all-rounders - but until now, you had to invest well over 1000 euros for a solid entry-level model. With the Prophete, which was launched just in time for the first warm rays of sunshine at the beginning of March for 699 euros at Lidl, the discounter repeatedly attacks the segment head-on.
The price is a challenge, the equipment with components from Shimano or Continental is surprisingly complete at first glance. However, a gravel bike is not defined by prominent component manufacturers, but by riding characteristics, geometry, measured values and detailed solutions. This is exactly where our test comes in.
In direct comparison with entry-level models from Canyon or Radon, it quickly becomes clear where the Prophete can keep up - and where the limits of the price pressure become apparent. Our sister magazine TOUR rode the bike on tarmac, gravel and easy trails, tested the components in detail and measured the geometry.
The result is differentiated: The Prophete offers surprisingly much for the money, but requires compromises in key areas that you should be aware of before you buy. For a direct comparison, we have linked to the test of an affordable and aggressively priced competitor bike.
Gravel bike at a ridiculously low price: The Prophete Graveler - only available online
We take the first hurdle of the Prophete Graveler even before we buy it, as the gravel bike is exclusively available online and cannot be found in local supermarkets. This means neither a consultation nor a test ride - but a very tempting price of 699 euros. An identical model, manufactured by Prophete in Rheda-Wiedenbrück, is also available at Aldi and is - as of now - even 50 euros cheaper than at Lidl. However, these extremely low prices can vary greatly from day to day.
With prices like that, there has to be a catch - and the first one can already be found in the specifications on the website: Only a standard size of 55 centimetres is offered, without any additional explanations or a geometry table. The bike is therefore not necessarily made for the masses. People who are rather short or tall should keep their distance. With a height of 1.80 metres, we hope to be able to fit reasonably comfortably.
Prophete Graveler: How much gravel bike can you expect for the price?
On the other hand, a first look at the components of the gravel bike gives us hope for bargain potential: Tektro brakes, Shimano gears and Continental tyres show that at least the most important add-on parts come from renowned manufacturers.
When unpacking the bike from the box, however, the next weakness becomes apparent: although we didn't expect a lightweight bike, our workshop colleagues usually only struggle with over 12 kilograms on long-travel MTBs.
In the targeted search for positive and negative aspects, we notice the tube connections. Admittedly, not unexpectedly, these are rather crude, but ground weld seams do not make a bike faster.
Shift and brake cables run through the frame, but the inlets are sharp-edged and therefore natural enemies for cable housings. Pannier racks and mudguards can be attached using threaded eyelets; a kickstand is supplied.
Outdated technology could be problematic when it comes to sourcing spare parts: While a square bottom bracket could still be found, wheels with 135-millimetre quick-release hubs are likely to be more difficult to find - gravel bikes have been using thru axles for years.
As long as the high weight does not play a role, the Prophete Graveler The bike performs surprisingly well on roads and easy terrain. However, inexperienced riders quickly reach their limits on demanding terrain, as the bike is not only heavy but also steers sluggishly.
The fork, frame and seatpost are extremely stiff and offer hardly any comfort. This means that all impacts are transferred directly to the body. This could be cushioned by lower tyre pressure, but the heavy clincher tyres with thick tubes offer little scope for this.
This is how promising the components of the affordable Prophete Graveler are
Neither the rims nor the tyres are tubeless-compatible. Wider tyres can hardly be fitted: Much more than the fitted 40 millimetres would not fit. The components are predominantly from inexpensive brand manufacturers.
During the test phase, the gears and brakes functioned reliably and satisfactorily. Although the mechanical Tektro disc brakes offer less pressure point and braking power than hydraulic brakes, they are better than rim brakes.
Shimano's Claris drivetrain also works perfectly, although the gear range is severely limited. This has less to do with the mere eight sprockets than with the fact that the 50/34 crankset is designed more for road use than for off-road use, meaning that in combination with the 11-34 cassette there is a lack of small gears in particular. Inexperienced gravel bikers or those with loaded bikes in particular could have difficulties on climbs.
The handlebars are a clear weak point. Its shape leaves a lot to be desired, making it virtually impossible to position the levers properly and align them sensibly. In addition, the cheap handlebar tape increases the unpleasant grip feeling and the slippery saddle further worsens the riding experience.
For serious cycling, we therefore recommend replacing these components. However, this would mean losing the price advantage that was previously the bike's biggest plus point. However, we could well imagine the bike as an inexpensive entry-level model or as a second bike for the winter.
Conclusion on the Prophete gravel bike from the discounter
The quality of the gravel bike is acceptable for the price, but you have to make compromises in terms of comfort and equipment. The durability of the bike could be a problem, especially in winter.
If you're seriously interested in gravel tours, you're better off opting for the Prophete Graveler from the discounter. You will find a larger selection of frame sizes and better components in specialised shops.
Even bikes from well-known manufacturers in the €1000 range offer higher quality and are often available at a reduced price - so it is not necessary to spend a lot more money. A high-quality, little-used second-hand bike would also be the better choice overall.
The most important information about the Prophete Graveler at a glance
- Price: 699 euros (instead of 999.95 euros RRP) >> e.g. available here
- Weight of complete wheel: 12.1 kilos
- Frame sizes: 55 centimetres
- Colour: Sand beige
Equipment of the gravel bike
- Impellers: DT Swiss ER 1400 Dicut 25
- Impeller weights: 2053/2666 grams (front/rear)
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano Claris (2x8; 50/34, 11-34 t.) | Shimano Claris (2x8; 50/34, 11-34 t.) Grade: 4.0
- Brakes: Tektro MD-M 28ß (160/160 mm) | Grade: 3.0
- Tyres: Continental Terra Trail 40 mm (effective width: 40 mm) | Grade: 4.0
Geometry
- Wheelbase/caster: 1055/83 millimetres
- Seat/top/head tube: 504/560/160 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 603/371 millimetres/1.57
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 637/565 millimetres/1.63
Advantages & disadvantages of the Prophete Graveler
- Plus: rolls passably on gravel and tarmac
- Minus: uncomfortable, extremely heavy, unergonomic handlebars, unsuitable gear ratio
