We’ve chosen to review the Triban 120 Gravel Bike as we’ve been searching and analysing everything we can see to establish a best entry gravel bike. We’ve come to this conclusion because of price, quality, looks, comfort and users’ thoughts on this bike. It’s a versatile and affordable option for riders seeking a bike that can seamlessly transition between road and off-road adventures. This gravel bike boasts a relatively lightweight aluminium frame, designed to tackle various terrains. Notable features include wide tyres for enhanced traction, a comfortable style, neutral riding position and a range of gears to suit different riding conditions. The geometry and components of this bike are specifically crafted for gravel bike riding.
Our complete Triban 120 Gravel Bike Review follows…
Table of Contents
- Design and Build Quality:
- Performance:
- Comfort and Ergonomics:
- Features and Technology:
- Value for Money:
- List of Pros and Cons According to Users:
- Conclusion:
Design and Build Quality:
The Triban 120 Gravel Bike showcases a sleek and modern design, with a focus on functionality and durability. The lightweight aluminium frame provides a sturdy yet comfortable ride, while the carbon fork’s tapered steerer ensures precise handling. The bike’s build quality is impressive with robust components and attention to detail, ensuring it can withstand the rigours of gravel riding. It looks good too, especially with the tan-colour side-walled tyres. The total weight of a M-size bike is 10.9kg (without pedals) which is about average for a gravel bike – you need to spend big money to get a substantially more lightweight one.
Performance:
According to expert reviews and user feedback, the Triban 120 Gravel Bike excels in both on-road and off-road environments. Its wide Hutchinson Overide 700×38 Tubeless-Ready, anti-puncture reinforced tyres offer excellent traction on loose surfaces like gravel, dirt and light trails, while still maintaining a smooth ride on paved roads. These tyres are considered ‘semi-slick’: slick in the centre (for faster straights) with tread towards the edges (for cornering and grip). Some users note that, if you want to ride regularly on wet, very loose gravel or muddy surfaces, it might be better to swap them over for some more knobby ones. However, in general, the bike’s responsive handling, gear shifting and manoeuvrability make it a joy to ride, allowing cyclists to navigate tight turns and technical sections with confidence. Additionally, the reliable Promax DSK mechanical disc brakes system ensures optimal control and safety in various conditions.
Comfort and Ergonomics:
Comfort is a key aspect of the Triban 120 Gravel Bike’s design. The bike’s geometry is specifically tailored for an upright and natural riding position, reducing strain on the rider’s back and neck. An adjustable Triban ErgoFit hammock-style saddle and aluminium handlebars with a 16° flare further enhance comfort, allowing for long rides without feeling you need to get off. While the bike doesn’t have a dedicated suspension system, the wide tyres and solid frame provide ample cushioning for a smooth ride over rough terrain. The carbon fibre front fork also helps by absorbing bumps and vibrations.
Features and Technology:
The Triban 120 Gravel Bike incorporates several notable features and technologies:
- Wide 38mm tyres: These provide excellent grip and cushioning on various surfaces, from tarmac to gravel paths.
- Microshift H-100 10-Speed 11-42 Cassette: This cassette is an alternative to Shimano – it has a high standard of durability and the manufacturers say it will stand up to whatever you can throw at it!
- Microshift M665 rear derailleurs: This incorporates a clutch system to stop chain slapping or chain jumps.
- 700c wheels: The standard 700c wheel size ensures compatibility with a wide range of tyre options.
- Promax DSK 300R and 330R mechanical disc brakes: Providing reliable and consistent braking performance in all weather conditions.
- Front rack and fender mounts plus rear rack mounts: For the easy addition of panniers and mudguards, making the bike great for commuting or light touring.
Value for Money:
With a price point around £600, the Triban 120 Gravel Bike offers exceptional value for money. Compared to similar gravel bikes from other brands, this model provides a well-rounded package with quality components and performance at a more affordable cost. We looked at the Voodoo Limba Adventure Bike which is a similar alternative at £535 but it has only 8 gears, a steel rather than carbon fork and the WTB Riddler tyres seem puncture-prone…but it’s still a good bike for it’s price. We think the extra £65 is worth paying for the Triban.
Triban gives a lifetime warranty on its frame, stem and handlebar, providing peace of mind for buyers. It comes with a bell (which some users say sounds quieter than a mosquito!), a front and rear light.
List of Pros and Cons According to Users:
Pros:
- Versatile performance on various terrains
- Comfortable and upright riding position
- Robust build quality and durable components
- Plenty of components to upgrade one day if you wish
- Excellent value for money
- Five sizes, from XS to XL
Cons:
- Lack of a dedicated suspension system
- Limited colour options (Bottle Green only)
- The shift cable is exposed which means it’s unprotected from splatter from riding surfaces
Conclusion:
Having examined all gathered data for this Triban 120 Gravel Bike review, we believe it’s an excellent choice for riders seeking a versatile and capable bike that can handle both road and off-road adventures. With its durable build quality, comfortable geometry, and impressive performance across various terrains, this bike offers a well-rounded package at an affordable price point. Whether you’re a commuter looking for a rugged bike or an adventurer seeking to explore gravel paths and light trails or both, the Triban 120 Gravel Bike is a solid investment that won’t disappoint. If you’re looking for the best entry gravel bike at around the £600 price point, this model is definitely worth considering.
BUY from Decathlon: Triban 120 Gravel Bike
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