Women’s Road and Gravel

Liv Devote Advanced Pro $6,499

Each year sees the gravel category expanding. In 2020, Liv stepped into the ring with its first entry. The lightweight chameleon-blue frame and fork feature three water bottle mounts, as well as mounts for racks and bags, if you’re aiming for bikepacking adventures. If unloaded, long hours in the Liv Alacra SL saddle are a goal, the D-Fuse seatpost will absorb vibrations, while the D-Fuse handlebar does the same at your hands. The Devote is also quite capable and smooth on rolling singletrack. A SrAM Force groupset rounds out the package, as well as a Giant CXr-2 Carbon Disc wheelset with 700 x 40c tubeless-ready Maxxis Velocita tires. The frame and fork offer clearance for 45c treads. (liv-cycling.com/ca)

2021 BUYER’S GUIDE

GEAR

WOMEN’S ROAD AND GRAVEL

Scott Contessa Addict Gravel 15 $4,000

Scott has moulded its hMf carbon-fibre technology into this lightweight frame that’s built for adventure. The bike’s wheels, RP2.0 Disc, are by Scott’s component line, Syncros. The durable alloy rims come with Schwalbe’s gravel G-One Allround tires (700 x 35c). There’s plenty of stiffness in the frame, provided in part by the tapered head tube and large bottom bracket, making for great handling and pedalling efficiency. Shimano’s GrX gravel-specific components – shifters, crankset, front and rear derailleurs – can propel you across rough surfaces. Shimano RX400 hydraulic disc brakes will bring you to a stop when it’s time to enjoy the view. (micasport.com)

Cube Axial WS Pro $1,499

The vibrant, Axial WS Pro from Cube is a race-ready aluminum rig that is also built for comfort during long days in the saddle. The German company has spec’d the frame with many house-brand parts – fork, stem, handlebar and seatpost. The T-shaped saddle, the women-specific Natural Fit Venec Lite (also a product by Cube), features what is referred to as an ergo-relief channel for comfort when you’re in the drops. A 2 x 9 Shimano Sora R3000 crankset provides a wide range of gears. Continental Ultra Sport 3 tires and trp Spyre disc brakes provide the requisite grip and control. (cube-bikes.ca)—Tara Nolan