The Ribble Gravel SL Pro is a lightweight carbon gravel bike that combines an aggressive riding position with the practical features needed for bikepacking and long-distance adventures. It is quick on open gravel roads, comfortable over extended rides and offers an impressive number of luggage-mounting options. However, its racing-inspired geometry and limited gearing range in the tested 1x Shimano GRX Di2 build mean it is not the perfect choice for every gravel cyclist.
For riders who enjoy fast mixed-terrain rides but also want the freedom to tackle multi-day journeys, the Gravel SL Pro offers an interesting combination. In this review, we’ll examine its frame, geometry, components, handling, climbing performance and overall value to help you decide whether it deserves a place on your shortlist.
The Ribble Gravel SL Pro is a lightweight carbon gravel bike that combines an aggressive riding position with the practical features needed for bikepacking and long-distance adventures. It is quick on open gravel roads, comfortable over extended rides and offers an impressive number of luggage-mounting options. However, its racing-inspired geometry and limited gearing range in the tested 1x Shimano GRX Di2 build mean it is not the perfect choice for every gravel cyclist.
For riders who enjoy fast mixed-terrain rides but also want the freedom to tackle multi-day journeys, the Gravel SL Pro offers an interesting combination. In this review, we’ll examine its frame, geometry, components, handling, climbing performance and overall value to help you decide whether it deserves a place on your shortlist.
The gravel bike market is full of specialised machines. Some are designed for competitive racing, with aggressive geometry and aerodynamic features. Others prioritise comfort, stability and carrying capacity for long-distance adventures.
The Ribble Gravel SL Pro sits somewhere between these two categories.
Its carbon frame and performance-oriented components give it the character of a fast gravel bike, while its extensive mounting points make it suitable for bikepacking and longer trips. This combination is unusual because many lightweight gravel racers sacrifice luggage-carrying practicality.
In his April 2023 review for Cycling Weekly, Stefan Abram described the bike as an interesting combination of an aggressive riding position and bikepacking practicality. He praised its value, low weight and mounting options, while noting that its handling was not as sharp as some dedicated gravel race bikes.
That distinction is important. The Gravel SL Pro is not necessarily the fastest or most comfortable bike in every situation. Its appeal is the flexibility to cover different types of riding without completely changing your setup.
The carbon frame is one of the Gravel SL Pro’s biggest attractions. It gives the bike a lightweight feel while allowing Ribble to incorporate aerodynamic details and a clean overall appearance.
The design includes dropped seatstays, a D-shaped seatpost and internal cable-routing provisions. These features contribute to its streamlined look and performance-focused character.
However, the most interesting aspect is the number of mounting points.
Alongside the usual bottle-cage positions, the frame includes additional mounting points on the top tube and underside of the downtube. Each fork leg also has three mounting bosses, allowing riders to attach cargo cages and additional luggage.
The bike also has provisions for mudguards and a rear rack.
This gives owners considerable flexibility. You can configure it for a fast weekend ride with minimal accessories, then add luggage and equipment for a multi-day adventure.
For bikepackers, this is a major advantage. Carrying equipment securely without relying entirely on a large saddlebag or handlebar bag can make longer journeys more practical.
If you are planning to upgrade your cockpit for mixed-terrain riding, take a look at our guide to carbon gravel handlebars. Handlebar shape and flare can make a noticeable difference to comfort and control on long gravel rides.
A lightweight frame is useful when climbing, accelerating and riding long distances with luggage. The tested Ribble Gravel SL Pro impressed in this area.
According to Stefan Abram’s Cycling Weekly review, the tested bike weighed 8.93kg. That is a competitive figure for a carbon gravel bike equipped with practical mounting points and a substantial component package.
The geometry, however, is more complicated.
Cycling Weekly reported a 71.5-degree head angle and a 561mm stack height on its tested size. These figures point towards a relatively aggressive riding position compared with more relaxed adventure-focused gravel bikes.
The rear end is designed differently. The bike has 435mm chainstays, giving it a relatively long rear section that helps provide stability, particularly when riding at speed or carrying equipment.
This creates an interesting balance. The front end feels relatively low and performance-oriented, while the longer rear end contributes to a more planted character.
For riders who enjoy riding fast on open gravel roads, this can be appealing. However, cyclists who prefer an upright position for relaxed touring may find the fit too aggressive.
Always check the geometry chart for your chosen frame size rather than relying on a single test-bike measurement. A professional bike fit can also help determine whether the reach and handlebar position will suit your body.
The Shimano GRX Di2 groupset was one of the highlights of the build tested by Cycling Weekly.
Electronic shifting provides quick, accurate gear changes, while the hydraulic disc brakes deliver strong stopping power and useful modulation. The shape of the GRX lever hoods was also praised in the original review, particularly when braking from the hoods.
The tested configuration used a 1×11 drivetrain with an 11-42T cassette.
A 1x drivetrain has some obvious advantages for gravel riding. There is no front derailleur to adjust, the setup is simpler and there are fewer components to collect mud and dirt.
However, the gearing range can become a limitation.
With an 11-42T cassette and a 42-tooth chainring on the reviewed build, the bike offered a 1:1 lowest gear. That may be adequate for rolling terrain and shorter climbs, but it can feel demanding on steep gradients, particularly when carrying bikepacking equipment.
In his Cycling Weekly review, Abram reported that the gearing became a significant challenge during a long ride through the Atlas Mountains.
For riders who regularly tackle steep climbs, a lower climbing gear would be preferable. Depending on the available build and component compatibility, a different chainring or drivetrain configuration may improve the bike’s suitability for mountainous routes.
One important point: Ribble has offered different configurations and customisation options, so the components on a bike available today may not match the exact build tested in 2023. Check the specification of the individual bike before purchasing.
On open gravel roads, the Gravel SL Pro performs well.
The front end feels planted and controlled, giving the rider confidence when cornering on smoother trails and hard-packed surfaces. The lightweight construction also helps the bike accelerate when exiting corners or pushing over short climbs.
The original Cycling Weekly test found that the bike was enjoyable on flatter, faster gravel routes. Its combination of responsive acceleration and a stable front end made it particularly suited to flowing terrain.
However, the handling becomes less impressive on tighter and more technical trails.
The relatively long chainstays contribute to stability, but they can make the rear of the bike feel less responsive when negotiating sharp turns. On rougher, twistier sections, the rear wheel may feel as though it takes longer to follow the front.
This does not make the bike difficult to ride. It simply means that riders who prioritise quick, playful handling may prefer a more specialised gravel racer.
For general gravel riding, byways and mixed-surface routes, the handling is a sensible compromise.
The Gravel SL Pro’s versatility becomes particularly interesting on longer journeys.
In the Cycling Weekly review, Stefan Abram tested the bike on a 360km bikepacking loop through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. The route included substantial climbing and descending, giving him the opportunity to assess the bike beyond short recreational rides.
The route reached an elevation of approximately 2,500 metres at its highest point, with a low point around 400 metres.
The bike’s low weight was a clear advantage over the extended ride. Its mounting points also made it possible to configure the bike for carrying equipment.
However, the test exposed the limitations of the 1x gearing. The lowest gear was not sufficiently easy for some of the steeper climbs, especially when riding for long periods.
This is a useful reminder that bikepacking places different demands on a bike from a short gravel race. A gearing setup that feels perfectly acceptable on a two-hour ride can become uncomfortable after a full day of climbing with luggage.
If your plans involve mountainous routes, make gearing one of your first considerations rather than treating it as an afterthought.
Tyres have a major influence on how a gravel bike performs. A fast, relatively smooth tyre can make the bike feel lively on tarmac and hard-packed trails, while a more aggressive tread provides additional grip on loose surfaces.
The Cycling Weekly test bike used WTB Sendero 650b tyres. These offered substantial grip and confidence on rougher surfaces, although the reviewer noted that they were more aggressive than necessary for some faster gravel routes.
The tested build also used Enve Foundation AG28 gravel wheels, although Ribble offered different wheel options through its customisation process.
This is worth considering when choosing a build. If most of your riding takes place on smooth roads and compact gravel, a faster-rolling tyre may be more suitable. For muddy trails and loose terrain, a more aggressive tread could be worth the extra rolling resistance.
Wheel and tyre choice can transform the character of a gravel bike without requiring a new frame.
For more background on choosing the right type of bike for mixed terrain, read our guide to gravel versus cyclocross bikes.
Value is one of the strongest arguments in favour of the Gravel SL Pro.
In Cycling Weekly’s April 2023 review, the tested specification was priced at approximately £4,399 / $4,555.95. Those figures are historical review prices, not confirmed current prices.
The appeal was the combination of a carbon frame, Shimano GRX Di2 electronic shifting, quality wheels and a wide range of mounting options.
For comparison, the review considered bikes such as the Canyon Grizl, Scott Addict Gravel and BMC Kaius. These alternatives offered different balances of adventure capability, racing performance and price.
The Gravel SL Pro’s advantage was its ability to combine performance components with practical bikepacking features.
However, value depends on the build you choose. A more expensive wheelset or cockpit upgrade can quickly change the overall price. It is worth comparing the complete specification rather than judging a bike by its advertised starting price.
Also consider the cost of accessories. If you intend to use the bike for touring, you may need cargo cages, bags, lights, mudguards and other equipment.
The Gravel SL Pro is best suited to cyclists who want a fast, versatile gravel bike with the option of carrying luggage.
It is particularly appealing if you:
It may be less suitable if you mainly ride technical singletrack, prefer a very upright touring position or regularly tackle steep mountain climbs with heavy luggage using the tested 1x gearing.
Riders who prioritise sharp handling above all else may also prefer a dedicated gravel race bike.
The Ribble Gravel SL Pro is an unusual but appealing combination of a performance-oriented gravel bike and a practical adventure machine.
Its lightweight carbon construction, responsive feel on open gravel roads and extensive luggage mounts make it an attractive option for cyclists who enjoy covering long distances. The Shimano GRX Di2 system offers excellent shifting and braking, while the ability to customise components gives buyers some control over the final setup.
Its limitations are worth considering. The relatively aggressive riding position may not suit everyone, the rear end is not the most playful on technical trails, and the tested 1x gearing could be restrictive on steep, loaded climbs.
Ultimately, the Gravel SL Pro makes the most sense for riders who want speed and versatility in one package. It is not a specialist gravel racer or a dedicated expedition bike, but it can do a convincing job of combining elements of both.
Choose the right gearing, tyres and luggage setup, and it could be an excellent companion for everything from fast evening rides to ambitious multi-day adventures.
Yes. It is a capable carbon gravel bike with a lightweight frame, quality components and extensive luggage mounts. It performs particularly well on open gravel roads and mixed-surface routes, although it is less suited to very technical trails.
The bike tested by Cycling Weekly weighed 8.93kg. Weight varies depending on frame size, wheels, components and accessories, so check the specification of the particular build.
Yes. It has multiple mounting points on the frame and fork, as well as provisions for mudguards and a rear rack. These features make it suitable for carrying additional equipment on multi-day trips.
The Cycling Weekly test build used Shimano GRX Di2 in a 1×11 configuration. Ribble has offered different specifications and customisation options, so check the exact groupset fitted to the version you are considering.
The tested 42-tooth chainring and 11-42T cassette provided a 1:1 lowest gear. This can be sufficient for moderate climbs, but riders tackling steep gradients with luggage may benefit from a lower climbing gear.
It can be comfortable for riders who like a relatively low, aggressive position. Its carbon construction and versatile setup make it suitable for long rides, but the fit may feel too stretched for cyclists who prefer a more upright position.
Tyre compatibility depends on the wheel size and frame configuration. BikeRadar’s review of a later Gravel SL Pro build reports clearance for up to 45mm tyres with 700c wheels and 47mm with 650b wheels. Always check the exact model-year specifications before buying.
Yes. Its performance-oriented geometry and lightweight carbon frame make it capable on tarmac as well as gravel. A faster-rolling tyre setup can make it particularly effective for mixed road and unpaved routes.
It can be very good value if you want a carbon gravel bike with electronic shifting, quality components and extensive mounting options. Compare the current build specification and price with competing models before making a decision.
Riders who mainly tackle very technical singletrack, want an upright touring position or need exceptionally low climbing gears may be better served by a more specialised gravel or adventure bike.
Sources: Cycling Weekly: Ribble Gravel SL Pro review · BikeRadar: Ribble Gravel SL Pro GRX Di2 review · road.cc: Ribble Gravel SL Pro review.
