10 Best Gravel Bikes With 1x Drivetrains in 2026 for Simple, Capable Riding

A 1x drivetrain keeps gravel bikes simple, quiet, and easy to operate by using one front chainring instead of a traditional double. That streamlined setup is especially useful when rides move between pavement, rough paths, and steep climbs.

Our 2026 roundup includes complete gravel bikes, drivetrain groupsets, cranksets, and chainring options. Use the guide below to compare gearing range, compatibility, fit, and intended use before buying.

Best 10 Gravel Bikes with 1x Drivetrain Picks for 2026

Carbon All-Terrain Pick – SAVADECK Carbon Gravel Bike

The SAVADECK combines a T800 carbon frame and fork with a Shimano U6000 11-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and 700x40c tires. For shoppers comparing gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups, verify the drivetrain configuration carefully: the supplied specifications list a 22-speed drivetrain, so this bike may not match a strict 1x requirement.

Best For: Riders seeking a lightweight, carbon gravel bike for paved roads and unpaved trails.

Pros:

• Lightweight 10.4kg T800 carbon frame and fork
• Hydraulic disc brakes for consistent stopping power
• 700x40c tires support mixed-surface riding
• Arrives 90% pre-assembled with tools included

Cons:

• Listed as a 22-speed drivetrain rather than a confirmed 1x setup
• Limited sizing information is supplied for this listing

This is a compelling option when low weight, wide tires, and hydraulic braking matter most. Confirm the gearing and fit before buying if your priority is specifically a 1x gravel bike.

Wide-Chainline Upgrade – SRAM Apex DUB Crankset

The SRAM Apex DUB Crankset is a practical component for building or refreshing gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups. Its single-ring design, direct-mount X-SYNC chainring, and wide 47.5mm chainline are intended to support gravel tires and varied frame widths.

Best For: Gravel and mountain riders who need a single-ring crankset with a wide chainline.

Pros:

• Single-ring design simplifies the drivetrain
• Aluminum crankarms balance weight and durability
• Direct-mount X-SYNC ring supports chain retention
• Wide chainline accommodates larger gravel tires

Cons:

• Supplied listing describes a crankset, not a complete drivetrain
• 165mm crank length may not suit every rider
• Bottom-bracket and full compatibility should be verified

This crankset makes sense as a targeted 1x upgrade rather than a ready-to-ride bike solution. Check crank length, rear spacing, and bottom-bracket compatibility before ordering.

Budget 1x Groupset – microSHIFT Advent X Gravel Kit

The microSHIFT Advent X kit is a complete 1×10-speed control and shifting package for riders assembling gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups. It includes brake levers, a right-side 10-speed shifter, an 11-48T cassette, and a rear derailleur.

Best For: DIY gravel or MTB builds needing broad-range 10-speed shifting components.

Pros:

• Purpose-built 1×10-speed groupset configuration
• 11-48T cassette provides a wide stated range
• Includes shifter, brake levers, cassette, and rear derailleur
• Suitable for unpaved and mixed-terrain builds

Cons:

• OEM package does not include retail packaging
• Supplied parts list does not mention a crankset, chain, or brakes
• Compatibility with the rest of the bike must be checked

This is one of the more directly relevant choices for a 1x gravel conversion, especially when a wide-range 10-speed cassette is useful. Treat it as a partial groupset and budget for any missing drivetrain or braking parts.

Simple Ring Replacement – Shimano GRX RX810 42T Chainring

The Shimano GRX RX810 42-tooth chainring is a focused replacement part for riders maintaining or assembling gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups. Its single-ring design and 110 BCD, asymmetric four-bolt pattern are intended for compatible GRX crank applications.

Best For: Riders replacing a worn or changing a compatible 11-speed 1x gravel chainring.

Pros:

• Single-chainring format suits 1x drivetrains
• 42-tooth size supports efficient pedaling
• Aluminum construction keeps the part lightweight
• Black finish and asymmetric four-bolt pattern provide a precise fit on compatible cranks

Cons:

• Chainring only, not a complete drivetrain component set
• Compatibility is limited to the correct 110 BCD four-bolt crank interface
• Listed for 11-speed use

This is a sensible maintenance or gearing-change choice when your crank matches the specified interface. Confirm the BCD, bolt pattern, speed compatibility, and desired 42-tooth gearing before purchase.

Best Carbon Adventure Pick – SAVADECK Carbon Gravel Bike

For riders comparing gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain options, this SAVADECK emphasizes low weight, hydraulic braking, and broad 700x40c tires. However, its supplied specification lists a Shimano GRX400 20-speed setup with front and rear derailleurs, so it is not a 1x drivetrain model.

Best For: Riders wanting a lightweight carbon gravel bike for mixed road and off-road riding.

Pros:

• Lightweight 10.4kg T800 carbon frame and fork.
• 700x40c tires provide stability and traction on rough terrain.
• Shimano RX400 hydraulic disc brakes offer reliable stopping control.
• Internal cable routing and a tapered head tube support a clean design and stable handling.

Cons:

• The listed 20-speed GRX400 drivetrain uses front and rear derailleurs rather than a 1x setup.
• Its wider gravel-focused tires may be less road-oriented than narrower options.

This is a strong choice when carbon construction, comfort, and mixed-surface capability matter more than having a true 1x drivetrain. Verify the drivetrain configuration before buying if a single-chainring setup is essential.

Best 1x Drivetrain Upgrade – microSHIFT Sword Black 1x Crankset

For shoppers researching gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain systems, this microSHIFT Sword Black crankset is a component option rather than a complete bike. It is designed for Sword 1x groups and provides a 40-tooth chainring for a straightforward single-chainring configuration.

Best For: Riders building or replacing the crankset on a compatible microSHIFT Sword 1x gravel drivetrain.

Pros:

• Designed for use with Sword Black or Sword 1x groups.
• 40-tooth chainring supports a simple 1x configuration.
• 110mm asymmetric four-bolt BCD and a 50mm chainline.
• Aluminum crank arms and chainring help keep the component practical and durable.

Cons:

• It is a crankset, not a complete gravel bike.
• The compatible 68x113mm JIS square-taper bottom bracket is sold separately.
• Not compatible with 2x chainrings.

This is the most directly relevant product for a gravel-bike 1x drivetrain build, but compatibility must be checked carefully. Confirm the bottom-bracket standard, crank length, and the rest of the Sword system before ordering.

Best Fast Road Alternative – SAVADECK A7L Carbon Road Bike

This SAVADECK A7L is worth separating from gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain options because it is a dedicated road bike. Its Shimano 105 setup has 24 speeds and a double drivetrain, while the 700x25c tires and aerodynamic carbon design favor paved-road speed.

Best For: Riders prioritizing lightweight, fast paved-road performance over gravel versatility or a 1x drivetrain.

Pros:

• Very light 8.9kg carbon frame, fork, seatpost, and wheelset.
• Shimano 105 R7100 groupset provides a 24-speed double drivetrain.
• Hydraulic disc brakes deliver strong stopping performance.
• Fully internal cable routing and aerodynamic design support a clean, speed-focused build.

Cons:

• The double drivetrain is not a 1x setup.
• 700x25c tires are intended for paved roads rather than rough gravel.
• It is a road bike, not a gravel bike.

Choose the A7L only if your riding is primarily on pavement and you value low weight and aerodynamic performance. Riders specifically seeking gravel clearance and a 1x drivetrain should look elsewhere.

Balanced 165mm Option – Sword 1x 40T Crankset

microSHIFT Sword 1x Crankset - 165mm, 10-Speed, 40t, 110 Asym BCD, 24mm Spindle, Black, Gray

Check Price On Amazon

For riders comparing gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups or upgrading an existing build, this microSHIFT Sword crankset offers a 40-tooth ring, a 165mm crank length, and a wide 50mm chainline design. Its 10-speed compatibility and 24mm spindle make it a practical choice for compatible gravel or mixed-terrain builds.

Best For: Gravel riders who prefer a shorter 165mm crank length and a 10-speed 1x setup.

Pros:

• 165mm length is suited to gravel riding.
• Wide design is optimized for a 50mm chainline.
• 24mm Hollowtech II spindle works with many aftermarket bottom brackets.
• Can support conversion to 2x with compatible microSHIFT Sword chainrings.

Cons:

• Designed for 10-speed drivetrains, limiting compatibility with other speed counts.
• Bottom-bracket compatibility should be checked before purchase.

This is a well-targeted option for a 10-speed gravel 1x build, especially when a 165mm crank length and 50mm chainline fit your frame and riding preferences.

Check Price On Amazon

Simple Square-Taper Choice – Sword Black 42T Crankset

microSHIFT Sword Black 1x Crankset - 9/10-Speed, 42t, 110 Asym BCD, JIS Square Taper Spindle Interface, Black (Arm Length 175mm)

Check Price On Amazon

Among components for gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups, this Sword Black crankset stands out for its straightforward square-taper interface and 42-tooth chainring. It is designed for 9/10-speed Sword Black or Sword 1x groups and uses a 50mm chainline.

Best For: Unpaved-trail riders building a Sword 1x system around a JIS square-taper bottom bracket.

Pros:

• 42T chainring suits a simple 1x configuration.
• Compatible with 68x113mm JIS square-taper bottom brackets.
• Aluminum crank arms and chainring keep the construction straightforward.
• Designed for Sword Black or Sword 1x groups.

Cons:

• Bottom bracket is sold separately.
• Its square-taper interface is less suitable for riders seeking a 24mm spindle setup.
• Compatibility is specifically centered on 9/10-speed Sword systems.

Choose this model when your frame and drivetrain already support the specified JIS square-taper standard; otherwise, the required bottom-bracket purchase may add another compatibility step.

Check Price On Amazon

Longer-Crank Gravel Pick – Sword 1x 40T Crankset

microSHIFT Sword 1x Crankset - 170mm, 10-Speed, 40t, 110 Asym BCD, 24mm Spindle, Black, Gray

Check Price On Amazon

This 170mm microSHIFT Sword crankset is a practical component for gravel bikes with 1x drivetrain setups that use 10 speeds. It combines a 40-tooth chainring with a wide 50mm chainline and a 24mm spindle, and it is specified for 135/142mm road disc and MTB hub configurations.

Best For: Gravel and unpaved-trail riders who prefer a 170mm crank length on a 10-speed build.

Pros:

• 170mm crank length suits riders seeking longer crank arms.
• 40T chainring provides a focused 1x configuration.
• 24mm spindle is compatible with many aftermarket bottom brackets.
• Can be converted to 2x with compatible microSHIFT Sword chainrings.

Cons:

• 10-speed design is not a universal match for every drivetrain.
• Longer 170mm cranks may not suit every rider or frame clearance requirement.
• Bottom-bracket fit should be confirmed before installation.

This model makes the most sense when a 170mm crank length, 50mm chainline, and 24mm spindle align with your fit requirements and existing components.

Check Price On Amazon

How We Picked These Gravel Bikes with 1x Drivetrains

We selected products that represent the main ways riders build or upgrade a 1x gravel bike: complete bicycles, complete groupsets, cranksets, and replacement chainrings. We considered drivetrain range, braking systems, frame material, wheel and tire clearance, component compatibility, and likely use on mixed surfaces.

Complete bikes are the simplest choice for a new rider, while individual components make more sense for a compatible frame or an existing bike that needs a targeted upgrade. Because specifications and availability can change, confirm the manufacturer’s current details before ordering.

Quick Comparison

Product type	Best suited for	What to check first
Complete carbon gravel bike	Riders wanting a ready-to-ride setup	Frame fit, tire clearance, gearing, and assembly
Gravel groupset	Custom builds or major upgrades	Freehub body, cable or hydraulic compatibility, and crank fit
1x crankset	Replacing or changing front gearing	Spindle interface, chainline, bolt pattern, and crank length
Chainring	Fine-tuning climbing or speed	BCD, bolt count, chain type, and derailleur capacity

Key Buying Factors for Gravel Bikes with 1x Drivetrains

Gear Range and Chainring Size

A wide-range cassette helps a 1x system handle climbs without a front derailleur. Smaller chainrings improve low-speed climbing, while larger rings favor faster paved sections. A 40T or 42T ring can be a useful middle ground, but the best choice depends on your fitness, terrain, wheel size, and cassette range.

Brakes, Tires, and Clearance

Hydraulic disc brakes generally provide stronger, more controlled braking than mechanical systems, particularly in wet or steep conditions. For mixed gravel, 40mm tires are a practical starting point. Check maximum clearance if you expect mud, loose surfaces, or wider tires later.

Compatibility and Fit

For component purchases, verify the cassette speed, freehub standard, bottom-bracket or spindle interface, chainline, BCD, and crank length. A 1x crankset is not automatically compatible with every frame or groupset. For complete bikes, prioritize stack, reach, frame size, and riding position over component appeal.

Weight Versus Durability

Carbon frames can reduce weight and add vibration damping, but they may cost more and require careful torque control. Aluminum or simpler component choices can be sensible for commuting, travel, rough use, or budget-conscious builds.

Who Should Buy Which Gravel Bikes with 1x Drivetrain?

Choose a complete carbon gravel bike if you want one purchase that is ready for long mixed-surface rides. A complete groupset is better for a compatible custom build or a substantial drivetrain refresh. Pick a 1x crankset when your current system needs a new crank or a different chainring size. Choose a replacement chainring when the rest of your drivetrain is sound and you only need to alter gearing or replace wear.

For fast, rolling routes, favor a larger chainring and closer-spaced cassette. For loaded touring, loose climbs, and rugged backroads, prioritize low gearing, dependable hydraulic brakes, and generous tire clearance. Always confirm fit and compatibility before checkout.