When we set off for The Goats, one question came up time and again: Why ride together on two such different titanium Caminade bikes? Gravel or mountain bike? Here’s what we learned from the experience.
On one side, Brice chose a gravel bike titanium Caminade, designed for fast, lightweight riding. On the other, I was riding a titanium Caminade mountain bike, prioritizing comfort and versatility. Yet we rode exactly the same trails, tackled the same climbs and descents... So, gravel bike or mountain bike… which was the better choice?
The answer is probably less straightforward than you might think.
Brice |
Me |
|---|---|
Titanium gravel bike |
Titanium mountain bike |
Lightweight |
Comfort |
Efficiency |
Versatility |
Ride fast |
Go anywhere |
Light bikepacking |
Off-road bikepacking |
Brice’s bike: efficiency and lightweight design
Brice’s bike perfectly reflects his way of travelling: a lightweight, dynamic and efficient setup. On Portugal’s long, smooth tracks, it makes it easy to maintain speed and offers a wonderfully efficient ride. But this choice also calls for a little more care when the terrain gets rougher or more technical. An ideal approach for anyone who enjoys covering long distances on a responsive, lively bike.
My bike: comfort and confidence
I went for a different option. With a titanium mountain bike fitted with wider tires, comfort was my top priority for a multi-day trip. Technical sections, rocky trails and descents became almost like a playground, and I never had to wonder whether the bike could handle them. The trade-off? A little less efficiency on very smooth terrain. But after several days on the bike, that extra comfort was clearly part of what made the trip so enjoyable.
So… Gravel or Mountain Bike?
In the end, this journey above all reminded us that there is no universal answer. Gravel biking provides a sense of speed and efficiency that is difficult to match. Mountain biking offers more comfort and confidence, and allows you to tackle almost any terrain with peace of mind. Neither was the "right" bike. They were simply suited to two different ways of experiencing the same adventure. And that is probably what makes bike touring so exciting: everyone finds their own balance between performance, comfort, and enjoyment.
Ready to plan your own adventure? Discover our collection of artisanal luggage made in our workshop.
Speed is the sense of freedom given by speed, the wind that makes your eyes water, the sound of the air rushing past your ears, a little taste of adrenaline that makes you feel good.
At Velocidade, we believe in cycling as the future of transportation! We have created a range of responsible bike luggage and backpacks, designed and handmade in our workshop in Mirepoix, in Ariège. To learn more about our commitment, come by here.
MADE IN FRANCE
We wanted to create our bags with an Oeko-Tex certified waterproof and UV-resistant fabric made in France.
DESIGN
Products designed to last a long time with a reduction in raw materials and that can be repaired, a sustainable design.
REPAIRABLE
In case of damage, no worries, we repair your bag!
COMMITMENT
As a committed brand, we donate 1% of our turnover to help preserve the environment.
RICARDO VIEIRA-FOUNDER/DESIGNER/TAILOR
Ricardo has long been thinking about reducing his environmental impact, whether through his sports practice of cycling, running, or in his everyday life, having decided to be vegetarian over 20 years ago. Curious and passionate, he embarked on the creation and manufacturing of his first objects when his grandfather gave him a sewing machine for his 17th birthday, and since then, he has endeavored to create, repair, and manufacture with the same energy and in the same direction, that of sobriety and localism. Convinced that the bicycle is the ultimate decarbonized solution for everyday travel, Ricardo decided to create Velocidade, and embarked on the design and creation of handmade bags, in a completely artisanal way.
