£300 vs £600 gravel bikes: what really improves rough lanes

• Frame & fork: Aluminium frames at both prices; £600 bikes often use lighter tubing and a better carbon fork to reduce buzz.
• Gearing: £300 bikes usually run narrow-range road-style gearing; £600 options more often offer wider-range cassettes or gravel-specific ratios.
• Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes at £300; improved mechanical or entry-level hydraulic discs around £600.
• Tyres & clearance: Budget tyres at £300, often 35–38mm; £600 bikes typically allow 40–45mm tyres with better tread and casings.
• Wheels: Heavier, basic wheels at £300; slightly stronger, better-sealed hubs at £600.
• Extras: Rack and mudguard mounts are hit-and-miss at £300, but more consistent at £600.

• Very heavy wheels that blunt acceleration and make the bike feel harsh on rough surfaces.
• Mechanical disc brakes with poor adjustment range or weak wet-weather performance.
• Limited tyre clearance that caps comfort and future upgrades.
• Gearing that’s fine on flat paths but struggles on steep or loose climbs.
• Minimal mounting points if commuting or light touring is planned.