What’s the Difference?
If you’re shopping for a high-performance carbon fiber ebike, finding the right frame for your riding style is paramount. The Ride1Up CF Racer1 series offers a Road and Gravel variant designed for specific terrain, handling, and riding conditions. But what sets them apart? Let’s dive into the key differences between the CF Racer1 Road frame and the CF Racer1 Gravel frame, helping you determine which style is right for your needs.
HANDLEBAR GEOMETRY
A primary distinction between the CF Racer1 Road and Gravel frames is their handlebar geometry:
Built for speed and aerodynamics, the CF Racer1 Road frame has a more compact handlebar flare. This design puts the rider in a narrow riding position, maximizing power transfer, maneuverability in tight spaces, and efficiency on smooth pavement.
The CF Racer1 Gravel frame features a more stability-oriented geometry and a more aggressive handlebar flare. This creates a more relaxed grip, offering better leverage and control on rough, uneven terrain.
TIRE STYLE AND RIM DIMENSIONS
Another major difference between the two frames is tire style and rim dimensions:
Equipped with Schwalbe E-One 700x32c performance road tires with double-walled 40mm deep,17mm internal width aluminum rims, this style choice enhances speed and aerodynamics on paved roads but limits versatility on rough surfaces.
Equipped with premium offroad tires to provide extra traction, shock absorption, and stability on dirt, gravel, and mixed surfaces, the Gravel frame comes stock with Continental Terra Trail 700x40c tires and 16.5mm deep, 17.5mm internal width double-walled aluminum rims.
HANDLING AND STABILITY
Each frame style has advantages for different riding styles and terrain:
Designed for precise handling, quick acceleration, and fast cornering. The componentry and styling contribute to a nimble, responsive ride but may feel more twitchy on rougher surfaces.
Focuses on stability and control, with a wider flare and lower gear ratio to enhance handling on loose or unpredictable terrain. This makes it easier to navigate technical descents and off-road trails.
GEARING SYSTEM
While both frames use SRAM cassettes, the cassette sizes and gearing ratio needs vary across use cases:
Equipped with a higher gearing ratio (11–42T) for higher sustained speeds and more power on less drastic elevation changes.
Equipped with a lower gearing ratio (11–36T) to provide easier hill-climbing and adaptability on steeper, more unpredictable terrain.
Which Style Should You Choose?
OPT FOR THE ROAD FRAME IF: You prioritize speed, efficiency, and performance on smooth pavement. It’s ideal for racing, fast group rides, and long road hours.
GO FOR THE GRAVEL FRAME IF: You seek versatility, comfort, and the ability to explore a variety of terrains, from paved roads to gravel paths and light trails.
Final Thoughts
The CF Racer1 Road and Gravel frames share a high-quality carbon fiber construction, but their design differences cater to distinct riding styles. If speed and precision on the pavement are what you crave, the Road frame is your best bet. If adventuring over various terrains is more your style, the Gravel frame will serve you better. Always reach out to our US-based experts if you have questions before you purchase, and enjoy the ride!
