In an era where gravel bikes have become the darlings of the cycling world, sometimes it can feel like you need a pro contract and a trust fund just to justify getting outside. But not every rider is chasing podiums or KOMs. Some just want a solid, good-looking, well-spec’d bike that can handle a mix of pavement, dirt, and daily life without draining our savings.
That’s exactly the niche Batch Bicycles is carving out with their Gravel Plus bike—and now, just in time for spring, the value has gotten even better. The Gravel Plus has dropped in price to $1299 (from $1399), while its sibling, the standard Batch Gravel Bike, is now just $1,000. For a SRAM-equipped rig with a full carbon fork, that’s somewhat unheard of. (lead image and all photos by Wallace Mehki Harrison)
After riding the Gravel Plus for a month on the roads and trails and bike paths around Atlanta, Georgia, during my fellowship at the Savannah College of Art & Design, where I was looking for something rugged and versatile but not too flashy to ride around while I was there, I can confidently say it’s one of the best value-forward gravel rigs I’ve tested this year.
The Batch Backstory: A Simpler Kind of Cycling
Batch benefits from a unique foundation: it’s backed by Huffy, one of the oldest names in American cycling. That heritage translates to smart manufacturing, reliable logistics, and a deep understanding of what people actually need from a bike. Founded in 2018 in Dayton, Ohio, Batch Bicycles was born to serve riders looking for something better than the usual big-box fare, but without the complexity (and cost) of boutique bike shop offerings. It’s a smart position—especially as direct-to-consumer brands like Canyon, State Bicycle Co., and others have shown that price transparency and streamlined offerings resonate with today’s riders.
Capable, Comfortable, and Just Plain Fun
The Gravel Plus is built up with a 6061 double-butted aluminum frame and a full carbon fork—features I rarely see paired at this price point. Toss in a reliable SRAM Apex 1×11 drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and tubeless-ready WTB Nano 700x40mm tires, and you’re looking at a legit gravel machine right out of the box.
I tested the Gravel Plus on everything from paved river trails to washed-out fire roads, single track, and urban connectors around Atlanta’s tangled sprawl. On each ride the bike felt predictable, efficient, and versatile—something I could throw around corners on dicey pavement and then over my shoulder for some cyclocross style action. It’s not the stiffest or lightest gravel bike I’ve ridden of course, but it holds its own and is a heck of a lot more forgiving on the wallet.
Compared to other bikes in the $1,200 – $1,500 price range, the Gravel Plus is lighter and probably less flashy. It’s a bike built to be ridden hard and often, with smart component choices and a neutral geometry that makes it just as good for beginners as it is for experienced riders looking for a no-fuss second bike.
Batch vs. The Field: Where It Stacks Up
As you know I’ve tested gravel bikes from across the spectrum—high-end machines from brands like Open and Allied, workhorse rigs from Cannondale and BMC, and value-focused offerings from DTC players like Poseidon, State, and Canyon. The Batch Gravel Plus doesn’t pretend to compete with dream bikes, but it holds its ground against the likes of a Canyon’s Grizl AL or State Black Label All-Road.
Where those brands lean into performance aesthetics and customization, Batch keeps it simple and ride-ready. There’s no build kit configurator or carbon seatpost upgrades, just four sizes, one clean build, and everything you need right out of the box—including tubeless stems and mounts for racks or fenders.
And unlike most DTC brands, Batch gives you the option to buy through your local bike shop—so you can get it serviced by a professional and pick up some CO2 (Ninja pump anyone?) or apparel (Velocio) while you’re there. Here’s a quick comparison of gravel bikes under $2,000, including Batch, Canyon, State Bicycle Co., and Cannondale:
A Bike for the People
The Batch Gravel Plus reminds me why I fell in love with gravel bikes in the first place: it’s not about gear envy or perfect fit data. It’s about getting out the door and riding. This is a bike I can recommend to a neighbor who wants to try their first gravel ride, or a city dweller looking for a reliable commuter that doesn’t feel like a tank. It’s even a great second bike for someone like me who already owns a high-end quiver but still wants something fun, fast, and low-maintenance.
And with the spring markdowns, it’s an even stronger contender in the budget gravel category. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to jump in, or just add a capable, low-hassle ride to your stable, this might be your moment.
Batch Gravel Plus Specs at a Glance
- Price: $1,400 ($1,300 spring price)
- Sizes: 50, 53, 56, 59 cm (I’m a 58 and went with the 59)
- Frame: 6061 Double-Butted Aluminum
- Fork: Full Carbon Gravel Fork
- Drivetrain: SRAM Apex 1×11
- Brakes: Mechanical Disc, 160mm rotors
- Tires: WTB Nano 700 x 40mm (tubeless ready)
- Weight: 25–27 lbs
- Extras: Rack and fender mounts, micro-adjust seatpost, flared drop bars
—Definitely Wild is a regular column by EO Contributing Editor Aaron Bible. He has been writing for Elevation Outdoors and Blue Ridge Outdoors, among other outdoor publications, for more than two decades, covering cycling, skiing, gear, adventure travel, and mountain life. The opinions expressed here are his own. Follow him on Instagram at @DefinitelyWild.
Read more from Definitely Wild:
Fly Fishing with Eleven Experiences
Coming Home with George Hincapie
