Due to the parallels to the cross bike, we have chosen the test winner of our sister magazine TOUR (Issue 8/17) in our system comparison of winter tyres. But even in the workshop it becomes clear where the potential for conflict with our use on easy trails will lie. Both the fork and the rear suspension are lacking. Koga Colmaro Allroad tyre clearance for the mud packs that accumulate in the undergrowth. Especially as the low-profile tyre struggles in wet conditions. Due to the larger volume (compared to a cross bike), it offers slightly more comfort, but has very little grip in muddy passages. Good riding technique is also required on steep climbs to prevent the tyre from spinning. The 1x11 drivetrain with a large 44 t chainring (11-42 t cassette) does not offer any easy gears.
The geometry of the gravel bike is much more compact and the riding position is a nuance more comfortable than on a cross bike. On fast off-road sections, the Koga feels a little nervous and lacks directional stability. A side effect of the compact geometry: when turning, the tip of the foot (size 42) brushes against the front wheel, which is particularly annoying in tight bends.
The gravel bike is at home on the road or light gravel paths. Here it rides comfortably and can easily keep up with racing bikes.
PLUS Fully usable as a racing bike in summer. Compact, comfortable riding position. Extremely low maintenance.
MINUS High risk of flats off-road. Little comfort (as on a cross bike). Unsuitable handlebars off-road. Low gear range of the Sram Rival single-speed drivetrain.
Info www.koga.com
Ludwig Döhl, test editor BIKE: If you want to get off the gravel track in winter, you should stay away from gravel bikes. Even if this type of bike looks strikingly similar to a cross bike, details such as the low tyre clearance and the compact geometry limit the range of use. The gravel bike feels much more comfortable on the road than off-road.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 1/2018 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
