Gravel cycling is all about freedom, adventure, and versatility — it’s the kind of riding that doesn’t follow strict rules. Somewhere between road and mountain biking, gravel riding lets you explore dirt tracks, fire trails, coastal paths, and back roads that you’d normally avoid on a standard road bike. Whether you’re commuting on mixed surfaces or heading off the beaten track for a full-day ride, the right parts and accessories can make all the difference.

At Mr Cycling World, we stock a carefully selected range of affordable gravel bike parts and accessories, with fast shipping across Australia. From tubes and tyres to bottles, tools and drivetrain bits, you’ll find gear that’s practical, proven, and ready to handle whatever the road (or trail) throws at you.

Gravel riders tend to value practicality, durability, and comfort above all else. The gear choices reflect this — often a blend of road-bike efficiency and MTB toughness. Unlike road cyclists who focus on weight savings and aerodynamics, or mountain bikers chasing suspension performance and aggressive tread, gravel riders need gear that can handle long mixed-surface rides, variable weather, and occasional mechanicals in remote areas.

That means larger-capacity water bottles, more versatile tyres with a balance of grip and rolling resistance, and tools that can be used trailside without fuss. Headwear to manage sweat and sun, robust lights for early starts or late finishes, and quick-link chains or repair tools are all common in a gravel rider’s kit. It’s not about high-end carbon or full-suspension tech — it’s about gear that works, lasts, and doesn’t break the bank.

Our editor’s picks focus on items that are well-suited to this kind of riding — things we find ourselves using regularly, whether it’s on solo bush loops, dirt-road commutes, or weekend gravel adventures.

From the gravel trails of the Adelaide Hills to the outer-urban escapes near Melbourne and the fire trails surrounding Sydney, gravel riding is booming across Australia’s major cities. What’s selling reflects how riders are using their bikes in each region.

In Adelaide, we often see interest in puncture-resistant tyres and tubeless repair kits — likely due to the dry, sharp-gravel terrain of places like Belair and Cleland. Melbourne gravel riders lean towards all-weather gear, especially lightweight waterproof jackets and bikepacking accessories for longer day rides or overnight adventures around the Dandenongs or Warburton Rail Trail. In Sydney, demand is strong for compact lights, hydration gear, and packs that suit a mix of urban riding and quick getaways to Ku-ring-gai or the Royal National Park.

If you’re riding in these areas (or just planning a trip), these trends may help guide your gear choices.

Whether you’re heading out for a short loop or an all-day exploration, gravel rides can be unpredictable — that’s half the fun. But it pays to be prepared. Here’s a practical checklist of gravel gear most riders find essential:

• Tyres – Wider than road tyres, with light tread. 35-45mm is common. Tubeless preferred to reduce punctures.
• Spare Tubes or Tubeless Repair Kit – Even with good setup, flats happen. Be ready.
• Frame Bag or Saddle Bag – Keeps snacks, tools and spares within easy reach without weighing down your back.
• Lights (Front and Rear) – Trails can get dim fast, especially in the trees or if you’re caught out later than expected.
• Compact Pump or CO₂ Inflator – Lightweight and reliable inflation on the go.
• Multi-tool – Adjustments mid-ride are common. Bring a tool with chain breaker and hex keys.
• Hydration – At least two bottles or a hydration pack. You’re likely to be out longer than you planned.
• Helmet & Gloves – Obvious, but important. Gloves help reduce fatigue on mixed terrain.
• Navigation – A handlebar mount for your phone or GPS computer helps if you’re venturing into less familiar areas.

This list can be adjusted depending on where you’re riding and how far, but it covers the core items most gravel riders trust for regular use.

Gravel riding puts your bike through more abuse than smooth tarmac ever will. From dust and mud to corrugations and creek crossings, keeping your gear in top shape isn’t just about performance—it’s about avoiding a long walk home.

Gravel riders tend to take a more hands-on approach to maintenance, and for good reason. A bit of care goes a long way.

Workshop Basics:

• Chain Cleaner & Degreaser – Gravel dust and grit can chew through drivetrains if left too long. Clean and lube your chain regularly.
• Chain Lube (Dry or Wet) – Choose depending on where you ride. Dry lube is good for dusty SA and VIC summers; wet lube suits wetter or muddy areas.
• Torque Wrench – Many gravel bikes have carbon components—get the tightness right without guesswork.
• Tyre Levers & Patch Kit – Still useful, even if you’re running tubeless.
• Brush Set – Keeping the drivetrain and frame clear of muck helps avoid wear and makes post-ride inspections easier.
• Spare Tubes & Sealant – Always good to have in the shed, especially when the tubeless goo starts to dry out.

Trailside Must-Haves:

• Compact Multi-tool – A quality one with a chain breaker is essential for fixing most issues mid-ride.
• Mini Pump or CO₂ Kit – Lightweight and reliable inflation wherever you are.
• Quick Link – Saves your day if your chain snaps miles from help.
• Zip Ties & Tape – Small, light, and often life-savers.

Gravel riding encourages self-sufficiency. Investing in a solid tool kit and doing regular maintenance will save money, reduce downtime, and keep your adventures smooth (or at least reliably rough).

When you’re deep into the backroads or halfway through a dusty fire trail, running out of water is not just annoying—it can be dangerous. Hydration planning is critical for gravel rides, especially in Australia where heat and remoteness can catch you out.

Gravel rides often take longer than expected. Surfaces are slower, climbs can be punchy, and help might be far away. So plan to carry more water than you think you’ll need.

Popular Hydration Options:

• Standard Bottles & Cages – Simple and lightweight. Most gravel bikes can fit two on the frame; some fit a third under the downtube.
• Insulated Bottles – Ideal for Australian summers—keep your drink cooler for longer.
• Bikepacking-Style Fork Cages – Perfect for holding large bottles or dry bags with hydration gear.
• Hydration Backpacks – Good for very long rides or when the frame has limited cage space. Choose one with decent ventilation to avoid sweaty back syndrome.
• Top Tube or Frame Bags with Bottle Storage – Great for stashing an extra bottle within easy reach, or carrying electrolytes and snacks.

Extras Worth Having:

• Electrolyte Tablets or Powder – Helps with hydration and reduces cramping. Keep a few in your saddle bag or frame bag.
• Bottle Brush – A simple tool that makes it easy to keep mould and grime out of your bottles between rides.

For gravel adventures, reliable hydration isn’t optional—it’s your ticket to staying alert, strong, and safe all the way to the finish (or the nearest bakery).

Gravel riding is hard on drivetrains. Grit, dust, mud and creek crossings combine to accelerate wear, and if your parts aren’t up to the task, they’ll let you down when you’re miles from anywhere.

Most gravel bikes use standard road or MTB drivetrains, but they demand more frequent attention. Chains wear faster, cassettes get clogged, and shifter cables can stretch or fray under load.

Key Parts to Keep an Eye On:

• Chain – A fresh chain is cheap insurance. Use a chain checker regularly and replace early to protect your cassette.
• Cassette – Wear is inevitable, especially in dusty conditions. If shifting becomes inconsistent even with a new chain, it might be time.
• Chainring(s) – Single or double, check for shark-tooth wear on the teeth. Narrow-wide rings on 1x setups can wear unevenly.
• Gear Cables and Housing – Grit and water ingress can cause sluggish shifting. Inline barrel adjusters can help fine-tune on the go.
• Quick Links – Always carry a spare. They weigh nothing and can save your ride if your chain snaps.

Gravel-specific components are often marketed, but the reality is that regular cleaning, good lubrication, and timely replacements are what really matter. A smooth-running drivetrain means more enjoyable rides and fewer mechanical headaches.

Your tyres are the first and most important contact point between your gravel bike and the terrain. Whether you’re rolling over loose fire trails, hard-packed roads, or rocky singletrack, the right tyre setup makes all the difference.

Gravel riders often experiment to find their preferred balance between speed, grip, comfort and puncture resistance. Tubeless setups are common, but many riders still stick with tubes — especially for simplicity or when running older wheels.

What to Look For:

• Tyre Width – Most gravel riders run 38–45mm wide tyres. Wider offers more comfort and grip, but adds weight.
• Tread Pattern – File tread or semi-slick for speed on hardpack; knobs for loose or wet terrain.
• Puncture Resistance – Reinforced sidewalls and thicker casings can prevent sidewall cuts and pinch flats.
• Tubes – Stick with quality heavy-duty options if you’re not tubeless. Carry a spare (or two).
• Repair Kit – At minimum, carry tyre levers, a spare tube, patches, and a pump or CO2. For tubeless, a plug kit is essential.

Having the right tyre setup – and knowing how to deal with a flat mid-ride – can be the difference between a good day out and a long walk home.

Long days on the gravel demand more than just a well-built bike. Staying comfortable, dry, and protected is key to enjoying your ride — especially in Australia’s harsh summer conditions.

Accessories like Halo Headbands, skull caps, and sweat management gear help keep sweat out of your eyes and regulate temperature on hot or dusty trails. They’re designed to fit comfortably under helmets and wick moisture away, reducing irritation and improving focus.

Whether you’re tackling a dusty gravel grind or pushing through humid coastal rides, these essentials make a noticeable difference. Good sweat management gear prevents chafing and keeps you feeling fresh mile after mile.

At Mr Cycling World, we understand gravel riding because we live it. Based in Adelaide, we specialise in quality gravel bike parts and accessories that suit Australian conditions and rider needs.

Our range focuses on trusted brands — including our own Positz line — offering reliability and value. We keep stock ready for fast dispatch Australia-wide, with clear shipping options and honest pricing.

We back our products with expert advice and responsive service, so you can shop with confidence. Whether you’re upgrading your bike or preparing for your next adventure, Mr Cycling World is your go-to destination for all things gravel.