Mastering all terrains: Best bikes for road and off-road riding

Choosing the best bike for road and off-road riding is about more than finding a bike that can go anywhere. It is about finding one that performs well wherever and however you ride. From weekend gravel epics and touring adventures to the humble morning commute, the most versatile bikes offer speed, stability, and comfort across mixed terrain. This guide explains the different bike types, their features, and some buying tips to help you choose the ideal all-terrain steed. 

Mixed terrain riding blends multiple surfaces in one ride. These surfaces could be tarmac, gravel tracks, forest paths, and even some light singletrack. A versatile bike balances the efficiency of a road-bike with the trail-ready stability of a dedicated off-road bike, ensuring you can enjoy variety without having to own a garage full of bikes. 

Key benefits of a versatile bike: 

• Mixed terrain capability – Handles tarmac, gravel, and dirt in a single ride 
• Speed and stability – Efficient on roads, stable on rough terrain 
• Cost-effective – One bike covers all bases, which reduces cost and maintenance 
• Adventure-ready – Opens up your route options as most surfaces can be handled

If you’re looking for a bike that can handle both road and trail, there are a few worthy options to consider. Each one will offer its own balance of speed, comfort, and most importantly- versatility. So, the best choice depends on how and where you ride.  

Gravel bikes are the ultimate all-rounders. They combine drop handlebars for aerodynamic efficiency with frames built for stability, and clearance for wider tyres between 38 and 50mm. Perfect for a 50/50 terrain split, they handle tarmac and dirt roads equally well. The Canyon Grizl is an incredibly versatile gravel rig, suitable for everything from after work rides to epic bikepacking trips. With 50mm tyre clearance, you can fit wide, grippy rubber for extra comfort. The range features a variety of mounting points for luggage and accessories, along with a relaxed and stable geometry that makes the bike comfortable for multi-day rides. Conversely, the Canyon Grail is a more speed and race focused bike. It offers slightly less tyre clearance than the Grizl, but features a more aggressive geometry that rewards a lower, more aerodynamic body position. 

Pros: 

• Excellent comfort on long rides 
• Wide gear range for steep climbs 
• Tubeless-ready wheels for fewer flat tyres 
• Can carry racks and bikepacking gear 

Cons: 

• Not as fast as pure road bikes on smooth tarmac 
• Limited suspension for very rough trails 

It’s clear that gravel bikes can give you that ideal balance between speed, comfort, and adaptability if you want to ride both roads and trails. The latest gravel bikes, such as the Grail and Grizl, offer wide tyre clearance, stable geometry, and options to mount a wide variety of lights, luggage and more. If your riding covers a mix of terrains or you have an interest in bikepacking and longer adventures, a gravel bike is hard to beat.  

For a deeper dive into models, features, and setup options, check out our comprehensive gravel bike buying guide to help you choose the perfect fit for your adventures. 

Hybrid bikes handle tarmac and light off-road riding with ease, featuring a flat handlebar for a relaxed, upright position, and medium-width tyres (around 32–45 mm) for comfort and grip. They are ideal for riders who mostly ride pavement and urban paths, with the option of the occasional light trail. Canyon’s Roadlite 8 blends a lightweight aluminium frame, carbon fork, and wide handlebars into a nimble urban machine weighing just 11.14 kg, while the Citylite:ON adds Bosch motor assistance, hub gearing, and integrated city-ready features like lights, fenders, and a frame lock, with a range of up to 85 km. Hybrid bikes, like these in Canyon’s range, are a stylish, versatile, and practical choice for everyday commuting and casual rides. 

• Pros: 
• Very comfortable, easy to ride.
• Affordable and beginner-friendly. 
• Great for commuting and errands. 

Cons: 

• Slower than road bikes on tarmac.
• Less capable on rough off-road terrain.

In summary, if your rides blend city streets, roads, and occasional light gravel and you are seeking the most stable and comfortable option, a hybrid bike gives you the ideal blend of comfort and multi-terrain versatility.  

So, if you’re looking for a versatile all-rounder for both city riding and weekend adventures, take a look at our hybrid bike buying guide to find the model that fits your lifestyle. 

Hardtail MTBs like the Canyon Exceed hardtail are built for dirt and rocky trails but can be adapted for road use with smoother tyres. They feature front suspension for comfort over rough terrain. If you ride off-road first and road second, they are a compelling option. 

Pros: 

• Excellent off-road handling and stability.
• Suspension absorbs bumps and roots.
• Can be fitted with racks for touring.

Cons: 

• Heavier and slower on roads.
• Mountain bike geometry less suited to long tarmac rides.

For riders who want a capable off-road machine without the extra weight and complexity of rear suspension, our hardtail mountain bike buying guide breaks down the key features and helps you find the perfect model. 

Designed for long days on the road, endurance bikes, including the new Canyon Endurace AllRoad, have a slightly more relaxed geometry than racing bikes, which makes them more comfortable over long distances. They can handle light gravel with wider tyres but are not ideal for rough trails. 

Pros: 

• Fastest option on smooth roads.
• Comfortable for long-distance rides.
• Lightweight frame.

Cons: 

• Limited tyre clearance.
• Not built for challenging off-road.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into models, features, and setups, our road bike buying guide will help you choose the perfect endurance road bike for your goals. 

If your rides are split evenly between roads and trails, a gravel bike is usually the safest bet. It offers a strong balance between road efficiency and off-road confidence, with enough comfort for all-day rides. 

For riders who mostly stick to city streets or bike paths but still want the option of occasionally venturing on to a dirt track, a hybrid bike keeps things simple. It is comfortable, upright, and stable for casual riding, although it sacrifices ultralight performance and outright speed in favor of providing riders with that maximum comfort they’re famous for. 

If your riding is almost entirely off-road and you only occasionally use paved roads, a hardtail mountain bike will feel most natural. The front suspension makes rough terrain much smoother, but it can feel slow and heavy when riding on the road for long distances. 

Finally, if smooth roads make up nearly all your riding and you only venture onto light gravel occasionally, an endurance road bike will give you the fastest, most efficient ride. Just remember that its narrower tyres and stiffer frame are not designed to handle challenging trails. 

Choosing the right bike for mixed terrain is not only about the type, but also about the features that make it suitable for different conditions you will face. Everything from the frame geometry, tyre clearance and the bike’s components will have an effect on how your bike feels on the road, how it handles trails, and how versatile it will be in the long run.  

Wide tyres between 35 and 50mm provide more grip and comfort on rough surfaces. Tubeless compatibility helps reduce flats and allows lower pressures for better traction. The Canyon Grail, which is a more race-focused gravel bike, has 42mm tyre clearance, making it ideal for faster riding on smoother gravel. Whereas the Canyon Grizl has space for larger 50mm rubber and is designed for handling rougher surfaces.  

When riding on mixed terrain, stability is everything. Unlike road race bikes, which have steeper angles and shorter wheelbases for fast, more agile handling, mixed terrain and off-road bikes have more relaxed geometries. For instance, they feature slacker head tube angles to improve stability off-road, while their longer wheelbase provides smoother handling and less jitteriness downhill and through corners. This is especially important when carrying gear.  

A wide gear range is vital when riding off-road. Given the loose surfaces you’ll find off-road you will usually need to remain seated while climbing to ensure your tyres keep traction. So, wide-range cassettes from 11-42 all the way to 11-50 teeth are common on these bikes. Paired with a 1x drivetrain or compact chainrings, you should have all the climbing gear range you need without losing speed on the flats and road sections. For a deeper dive into how gearing works and how to choose the right setup, check out our gear ratio guide. 

Gravel and hybrid bikes often use rigid forks, but micro-suspension stems or a suspension seatpost can add comfort without adding much extra weight. Some of the latest Grail and Grizl gravel bikes also feature front suspension forks from DT Swiss, improving their ability to absorb rough terrain without losing speed or adding much extra weight.  

Hydraulic disc brakes provide consistent stopping power in all weather, which is essential for mixed-terrain safety and confidence. Unlike mechanical disc brakes and rim brakes, hydraulic disc brakes use a sealed braking system, which uses fluid pressure to push the brake pads against the brake rotors. The benefit of this system is consistent, super powerful braking in all conditions. All Canyon mixed terrain bikes feature hydraulic braking.  

• Drop bars: Aerodynamic, multiple hand positions (gravel, endurance). 
• Flat bars: Upright comfort, better visibility (hybrid, MTB).

When it comes to bike frames, there are a wide range of materials available, from lightweight carbon and affordable aluminium to classic steel and premium titanium. Each has its own qualities in terms of weight, comfort, and durability, and what you choose will probably come down to budget. Since Canyon focuses on carbon and aluminium across its road, gravel, and MTB ranges, this guide will look more closely at those two options and what they mean for mixed-terrain riders. 

Aluminium 

Aluminium is the most common choice for affordable gravel bikes and hybrid models. It’s lightweight, stiff, and very cost effective to produce. Modern aluminium frames are far from basic, and many feature advanced, hydroformed tubing for improved strength and ride quality. The Canyon Grizl AL range, for example, offers speed, durability and excellent ride quality. 

• Pros: Affordable, light, responsive, durable.
• Cons: Can feel harsher on rough surfaces compared to carbon.

Carbon 

As your budget increases, carbon fibre enters the picture. This material is commonly found in the mid-range and premium space. Carbon delivers low weight, stiffness for efficient climbing and compliance for extra comfort. This makes it especially good for long-distance mixed-terrain riding. 

• Pros: Very light, vibration-damping, often aerodynamically optimised.
• Cons: More expensive.

Choosing the right frame material is a big step in shaping your ride. Explore our carbon vs aluminium guide to find out which one suits your adventures best. 

When choosing the best bikes for mixed terrain, your budget will determine the features, components and overall performance of each model.  From affordable hybrid bikes and mid-range all-road bikes to the highest performing premium gravel race bikes, the differences usually come down to frame materials, components, and long-term durability.

Entry-level mixed terrain bikes are the most affordable, designed for new riders or those who mainly stick to paved roads and the occasional light trail. At this price point you can often expect to find aluminium frames with basic but reliable drivetrains, and mechanical disc brakes. However, Canyon’s entry-level bikes such as the Roadlite 7 generally come equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, setting them apart from the competition. 

• Best suited for casual riding, commuting and weekend riding.
• Focused on comfort and simplicity rather than speed.
• Excellent value yet versatile for different conditions.

For more guidance on choosing your first bike, check out our entry-level buying guides for mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and road bikes. 

Mid-range bikes see noticeable improvements in performance, comfort and specs. Frames may predominantly be made from aluminium, and occasionally carbon. Mid-range bikes, like the versatile Canyon Grizl 7, are often lighter with slightly more aggressive geometry to suit more experienced riders. Most models have carbon forks for extra comfort and to reduce bumps and vibrations. At the mid-range level, hydraulic disc brakes always replace mechanical systems, giving superior braking and more consistent control. 

• More durable drivetrains designed for frequent off-road use.
• Lighter overall weight for easier climbing and longer rides.
• Better handling on gravel, dirt tracks, and endurance road rides.

Premium and top-end all-terrain bikes such as the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 7 Di2, which has 35mm tyre clearance, are designed for ambitious riders looking for maximum performance across any surface. Usually featuring lightweight and stiff full carbon frames, which are comfortable and compliant, these bikes will also often have electronic drivetrains such as Shimano Di2 or SRAM AXS. Integrated carbon cockpits, and carbon fibre wheelsets are also common. 

• Lightweight carbon bikes that climb well, are efficient on the flats and comfortable for long rides.
• High-end components  
• The best braking power and modulation in all weather.
• Enhanced ride quality with features that smooth rough terrain.

If you want to take on a variety of surfaces, e-bikes can be an excellent choice. Electric assistance can make climbing steep and rocky off-road sections easier, while longer distances are a breeze, reducing fatigue and keeping you fresh. For commuters, bikepackers, or leisure riders, an e-bike can turn rides that might feel intimidating into enjoyable adventures. 

Motor types 

Most mixed-terrain e-bikes such as the Grizl:ONfly CF Trail, use mid-drive motors (positioned at the crankset) because they provide smooth, natural-feeling power and maintain good balance on uneven ground. Hub-drive motors (in the wheel) are more common in entry-level or urban-focused bikes, but less ideal for technical trails. 

Battery range 

Modern e-bikes typically offer between 60–150 km of range depending on terrain, rider input, and assistance level. Removable batteries make recharging and extending range easier, while integrated designs improve aesthetics and reduce overall frame weight. 

Common uses 

• Commuting and fitness: Flatten hills and extend your daily rides without arriving exhausted. 
• Adventure and bikepacking: Carry your gear further into the wilderness with less difficulty.
• Off-road exploration: Tackle fire roads, singletrack, or gravel trails without running out of energy.

Having the right accessories for your mixed-terrain bike can provide a variety of advantages. From improving your safety to boosting comfort and carrying capacity, these extras can help you and your bike adapt to changing conditions and keep you prepared wherever the ride takes you. 

Lights

Seeing and being seen are essential when riding your bike in low light conditions. Front and rear lights provide visibility on the road and safety on dimly lit trails. Most modern lights are rechargeable, lightweight, powerful, and easy to mount, ensuring you stay seen in traffic and can navigate off-road after sunset. 

Mudguards

Removable or full-length mudguards protect you from water and debris on wet roads and muddy trails. They’re especially useful if you commute or ride year-round, keeping both you and your bike cleaner and more comfortable. 

Racks and Bags

For longer rides or bikepacking adventures, racks and frame bags allow you to carry gear securely without compromising balance. On gravel or hybrid bikes, rear racks are ideal for panniers, while handlebar or frame packs are perfect for gravel bikes. 

Multi-surface Tyres

Swapping to multi-surface or gravel tyres can instantly improve the versatility of your bike. These tyres combine a smoother central tread for efficiency on tarmac section, while side knobs provide grip on dirt or gravel. Wider options (35–45 mm) add comfort and stability when trails get rough. 

Other Useful Add-ons

• Bottle cages for hydration on longer rides.
• Mini-pumps or CO₂ inflators for trail-side repairs.
• Multi-tools to handle quick adjustments anywhere.

A well-chosen bike is just the start. Small adjustments and the right components can make a big difference to handling and long-distance comfort. Optimising your setup helps with control on technical trails, while also reducing fatigue on rough roads so you can ride further and enjoy the experience more. 

Braking systems

If you want to switch between tarmac and gravel, hydraulic disc brakes are the gold standard. They provide powerful, consistent stopping power in wet or dry conditions and require less hand effort than mechanical systems. Many models also allow lever reach adjustment so you can customise feel and braking force to your hand size and riding style. 

On loose gravel or dirt, the ability to easily modulate the power of your braking is crucial. Smooth, gradual braking prevents skidding and helps you stay in control on descents, making hydraulic systems a must for confident mixed-terrain riding. 

Saddle and handlebar setup

Your bike’s main contact points- the saddle, handlebars, and grips- have the biggest impact on overall comfort. The right saddle will reduce pressure and prevent soreness on long rides, especially over rough ground. Many endurance and gravel riders also benefit from slightly wider saddles and flexible seatposts that absorb vibrations. 

Handlebar choice matters too. Drop bars remain the best handlebars for mixed terrain, as they offer multiple hand positions for long-distance comfort and aerodynamic efficiency on roads. Flat bars, however, provide a more upright stance and better control on trails, making them ideal for riders who prioritise visibility and stability. 

Ergonomic grips, padded bar tape, and proper height adjustments can further improve comfort, helping you achieve a comfortable bike setup that suits your riding style. 

A few smart upgrades can make your bike more adaptable for both road and off-road use. These changes help you fine-tune comfort, efficiency, and practicality depending on where you ride. 

Tyre swaps

Switching tyres is the quickest way to change how your bike feels. Slick tyres roll faster on the road, while knobbier gravel tyres add grip and stability on dirt and on loose surfaces 

Gearing upgrades 

A wider-range cassette like a 10-45 makes steep climbs easier without losing speed on flat sections- a simple upgrade that boosts off-road capability. 

Add mounts and accessories

Bottle cages, racks, and fenders make your bike more versatile for commuting, touring, or wet-weather riding. 

Suspension seatpost 

A suspension seatpost smooths out rough roads and gravel, adding comfort without the weight of full suspension. 

Mixed terrain and off-road riding puts more stress on your bike than riding on smooth tarmac in dry conditions. This means keeping a closer eye on maintenance and prevention to keep it running smoothly. Dust, mud, and grit can wear down components faster if those parts are not cleaned and checked regularly. A simple maintenance routine will extend the life of your bike and make every ride feel more enjoyable. 

Cleaning

Gravel and dirt rides leave behind debris that can damage moving parts. Rinse your bike gently after off-road rides, using a soft brush or cloth to clear away mud from the frame, wheels, and drivetrain. Avoid high-pressure hoses, which can push water and grit into bearings. 

Your chain, cassette, and chainrings are especially vulnerable to wear when riding off-road. Clean, degrease and lubricate the chain frequently, ideally after every few rides on dusty or muddy terrain. A properly maintained drivetrain shifts more smoothly and lasts much longer. 

Check your brakes

Mixed terrain means frequent braking on loose surfaces, which can accelerate pad wear. You should inspect your brake pads regularly and replace them before they get too worn. Check that rotors are clean and free of oil or grit, which can reduce braking performance and cause contamination and noise. 

Finding the right bike for both road and off-road means balancing performance, comfort, and practicality. With so many options available, from gravel to hybrid to endurance road bikes, think about your priorities and riding style before making a decision. Here are some key points to guide you: 

1. Decide where you will ride most– More road or more trail.
2. Consider comfort vs. speed – Drop bars for speed, flat bars for comfort.
3. Think about maintenance – Simpler bikes are easier to service.
4. Test ride different styles – Comfort and fit matter more than specs.
5. Budget for accessories – Helmets, lights, racks, and spare tubes.

Choosing a bike is about more than just specs on a page, it’s about finding a ride that inspires confidence and makes you want to explore and ride more. Whether you lean toward smooth roads or rugged trails, the right bike will give you the freedom to go further and enjoy every ride. 

The best bike for road and off-road riding ultimately depends on your style, the terrain you ride most often, and the level of comfort you’re looking for. Gravel bikes are the most versatile, able to move seamlessly between tarmac and trails. Hybrids provide unbeatable comfort for casual rides, hardtails dominate on technical trails, and endurance road bikes deliver unmatched speed on the open road. 

Whichever you choose, the right mixed-terrain bike can replace the need for multiple bikes, expand your route options, and make every ride more adventurous. If you’re unsure which model suits you best, our Bike Finder and are designed to help you narrow down the perfect Canyon bike for your goals. 

Wherever you ride, however you ride, and whatever you ride, the most important thing is getting outside, enjoying your cycling, feeling the wind in your hair and the air in your lungs. From off-road adventures or the commute to work, cycling gives you the freedom to explore and make the most of your environment.  

Now is the time to get out there and enjoy your new Canyon bike.