Best All-Road Bikes 2025: Velo Field Test
Velo’s inaugural Field Test pits top all-road bikes against each other in rigorous real-world challenges. Discover which bikes truly excel in climbing, comfort, and speed. News Directory 3 reports on the climbing tests, led by Alvin Holbrook, where each bicycle faced a 2.1-mile ascent with a consistent power output to ensure fair comparisons. Testers also evaluated the bikes in descending and off-road vibration challenges, providing valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses. Find out which models are crowned the best, and learn how these enhanced features can improve your ride. discover what’s next in the world of all-road bike technology.
All-Road Bikes Face Rigorous Field Testing
Updated June 04, 2025
Velo has launched its inaugural Field Test, pitting several top all-road bikes against each other. Editors Alvin Holbrook, Josh Ross, and Will Tracy, along with Mike Levy, traveled to Marin County, California, to conduct the tests.
The Field Test format, familiar to those who follow Pinkbike, aims to identify the best all-road bikes through a series of challenges. These bikes, previously known as endurance bikes, are designed for comfort, increased tire clearance, and enhanced frame compliance.
BMC Roadmachine
DEVINCI HATCHET — our gravel control bike
Specialized goesos — our pure road control bike
The initial challenge focused on climbing.alvin Holbrook, who demonstrated his climbing prowess during initial test rides, led the effort. To ensure fair comparisons, he rode each bike up a 2.1-mile (3.4 km) segment with an average gradient of nearly 6 percent. Holbrook maintained a consistent power output of 250 watts, adhered to the same line, and used identical tire pressures on control tires.
While acknowledging the tests aren’t strictly scientific,Mike Levy said they reveal fundamental truths about the bikes. The back-to-back comparisons provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each model, aiding in the selection process.
What’s next
The Field Test will continue with descending and off-road vibration tests to further evaluate the all-road bikes. The next episode promises more insights into selecting the top performers.