Gravel Framesets USA 2025: Top 6 Carbon, Aluminum & Steel Sets for Racing, Endurance, and Touring — Expert Picks to Match Your Build

Specialized's Diverge STR Pro stands out by integrating the STR micro-suspension platform with a refined FACT carbon frame to deliver exceptional comfort and control over very rough gravel. Compared to stiffer, race-biased frames like the Cervelo Aspero or the lightweight Canyon CF SLX, the Diverge prioritizes vibration management and long-distance comfort—positioning itself at a premium price point justified by its unique comfort technology and proven ride quality.

The Cannondale Topstone 4 Frameset claims a place for riders who want a proven gravel platform with broad aftermarket support and user-friendly features at an accessible price point. Its alloy construction emphasizes versatility—ample tire clearance and stable geometry—so it competes well against pricier carbon options and undercuts some alloy rivals on dealer availability and parts ecosystem. Against the Norco and Devinci models it trades a bit of race-focused stiffness for more accommodation and load-carrying practicality, making it appealing for bikepacking and long-distance gravel use.

All-City's Gorilla Monsoon frameset stands out as a higher-end, purpose-built steel gravel platform with a balance of durability and responsive handling aimed at aggressive mixed-surface riding. It typically costs more than value-focused alternatives but justifies the premium with a tuned geometry and finishing details that make it a better choice for riders seeking a more performance-oriented steel gravel ride compared with more utility-minded Surly or touring-focused Kona models.

The Salsa Cutthroat Carbon Frameset earns a best-in-class spot for adventure gravel bikepacking thanks to its lightweight carbon construction, tuned compliance for long days, and integrated mounts that accept big framebags and bolt-on accessories. Compared with the steel options in this list it prioritizes speed and weight savings for loaded fastpacking routes, though it comes at a noticeably higher price and trades some dent resistance found in steel frames for performance gains.

The Salsa Warbird Carbon is a versatile, race-capable platform that also accommodates wide tyres, frame bags and rack mounts—making it ideal for riders who switch between competitive gravel and loaded allroad adventures. Unlike the aero-first Cervelo or the burly Norco, Salsa emphasizes practical adaptability and expedition features, offering exceptional value for multi-day setups and bikepacking trips.