Bergamont Grandurance 8 gravel bike review

Written By Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Images by Haus of Hiatus

Cost ★★★★☆

Performance ★★★★☆

Overall Score ★★★★☆

Verdict: an incredible gravel bike for the cost!

The Bergamont Grandurance 8 is a standout gravel bike that offers great value for money (and cool looks!), making it an excellent choice for both seasoned riders and newcomers to the gravel scene.

 

Priced competitively, this bike offers a feature set typically found in more expensive models, making it a smart investment for those looking to explore various terrains without breaking the bank.

 

One of the Grandurance 8's most notable features is its Shimano GRX groupset, designed specifically for gravel riding. The GRX components include the RD-RX812 Shadow Plus rear derailleur and ST-RX600 shifters, which provide reliable and precise shifting performance and a wide range of gears. The 1x11-speed setup with an 11-42t cassette offers ample versatility for tackling steep climbs and varied terrain, ensuring smooth transitions whether you're on gravel paths or paved roads​.

 

The bike's lightweight aluminium frame and carbon fork not only contribute to a smooth ride but also enhance durability, making it suitable for long-distance touring and bikepacking. The frame's geometry strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, allowing for an enjoyable ride over extended periods. Additionally, the Grandurance 8 is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, specifically the Shimano BR-RX400, providing reliable stopping power in all weather conditions, which is crucial for maintaining control on off-road adventures​.

 

In summary, the Bergamont Grandurance 8 is a well-rounded gravel bike that delivers a great mix of performance, durability, and value. Its Shimano GRX groupset, versatile frame, and thoughtful design elements make it a reliable companion for both everyday riding and adventurous expeditions. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer, this bike offers everything you need to tackle a variety of terrains with confidence.

You might also like:

Gear reviews
Pelago commuter front rack - large (used as a rear fatbike rack) review
Pelago commuter front rack - large (used as a rear fatbike rack) review

The Pelago Commuter Front Rack (large) is a sturdy, well-crafted piece of equipment, designed to carry everything from daily essentials to more adventurous loads. Although designed as a front rack, with some creative adjustments, we modified for rear use, even on unique setups like the Kona Wo fatbike with its 26” wheels and 4.8” tyres!

Fjällräven Keb trousers review
Fjällräven Keb trousers review

The Fjällräven Keb Trousers are renowned for their durability and practicality, making them a strong choice for hiking and trekking in cooler conditions, particularly outside of the summer months.

Rab interval t-shirt / base layer review
Rab interval t-shirt / base layer review

A few years old and now succeeded by the Force Tee, this lightweight, quick-drying technical base layer from Rab still holds its own for outdoor enthusiasts.

North Face Back-To-Berkeley IV textile waterproof boots review
North Face Back-To-Berkeley IV textile waterproof boots review

The North Face Back-To-Berkeley IV sneaker boots (we’re divided on how to refer to them!) are a solid choice for those seeking both style and function in their winter footwear.

Montane Atomic Waterproof Pants review
Montane Atomic Waterproof Pants review

The Montane Atomic Waterproof Pants are a great, lightweight option for bikepackers, fastpackers and generalist adventurers seeking reliable protection in wet conditions, at a decent price.

Rab Microlight Gilet Vest review
Rab Microlight Gilet Vest review

The Rab Men’s Microlight Vest strikes a solid balance between warmth, mobility, and eco-conscious design, making it a versatile choice for us outdoor enthusiasts.

Bontrager sport saddle review
Bontrager sport saddle review

The Bontrager Sport Saddle is a good choice for adventure seekers and everyday riders looking for comfort without breaking the bank.

JBL Endurance Run 2 wireless headphones review
JBL Endurance Run 2 wireless headphones review

The JBL Endurance Run 2 Wireless headphones offer a solid choice for adventurers and fitness enthusiasts looking for reliability, comfort, and durability in their headphones.

FiveTen ‘Five Tennies’ approach shoes review
FiveTen ‘Five Tennies’ approach shoes review

The Adidas Five Ten Five Tennies are a simple yet cult classic that continues to impress us with their blend of style, comfort, and durability (these are now almost 4 years old!).

ELOPS FL920 300-lumen USB-charged front bike light review
ELOPS FL920 300-lumen USB-charged front bike light review

The FL920 bike light by Decathlon’s ELOPS is designed for both visual efficiency and versatility, making it effective for use in bike-borne adventures.

On Running Cloud 5 Waterproof men’s trainers review
On Running Cloud 5 Waterproof men’s trainers review

Engineered by the Swiss brand On Running, Cloud 5 Waterproof trainers are designed to offer the great combination of comfort, performance, and weather protection for those urban exploring adventures we all need!

On Running Cloudsurfer running trainers review
On Running Cloudsurfer running trainers review

The Cloudsurfers from the Swiss running brand "On" offer a unique experience for us as runners, combining innovative design with practical performance features.

Merida 5.4-litre frame bag
Merida 5.4-litre frame bag

The Merida 5.4L Framebag Travel is a good choice for mountain bike packers seeking a half-frame bag with high-capacity (we opted for the large with 5.4 litres of space) storage solution for bikepacking adventures.

M-Wave SPD to flat pedals transformer review
M-Wave SPD to flat pedals transformer review

These simple adaptors from German bike kit manufacturers, M-Wave, are a super affordable way to turn a set of Shimano SPD pedals back into flats, for mountain biking or gravel riding when you need your feet free.

Apple Watch Series 9 review
Apple Watch Series 9 review

The Apple Watch Series 9 is a solid companion for those who lead adventurous lifestyles, offering a good balance of performance, durability, and utility at a good price when compared to other sports watches.

Bergamont Grandurance 8 gravel bike review
Bergamont Grandurance 8 gravel bike review

The Bergamont Grandurance 8 is a standout gravel bike that offers great value for money (and cool looks!), making it an excellent choice for both seasoned riders and newcomers to the gravel scene.

Priced competitively, this bike offers a feature set typically found in more expensive models, making it a smart investment for those looking to explore various terrains without breaking the bank.

Shimano PD-M520 SPD Pedals review
Shimano PD-M520 SPD Pedals review

These pedals are a popular choice among XC mountain bikers due to their robust design and reliability. Despite being lightweight, they feature a durable aluminium body and a Cromoly steel axle, ensuring longevity and consistent performance across various disciplines.

Sonder Bomber bikepacking handlebar review
Sonder Bomber bikepacking handlebar review

The Sonder Bomber Flared Drop Bars are a great choice for bikepacking expeditions, offering a blend of comfort and control that enhances the riding experience across varied terrains. Constructed from 6061 aluminium, these bars are both lightweight (275g) and comfy, making them suitable for long-distance journeys where you need extra space for the front gar.

Fizik Technogel handlebar gel set review
Fizik Technogel handlebar gel set review

If you’re embarking on multi-day bikepacking expeditons, gel pads for your handlebars are an excellent addition to your set-up, especially for those embarking on really long bikepacking expeditions (i.e., anything above 1500km).

Merida Forkbag and cage review
Merida Forkbag and cage review

The Merida fork bag and cage is a solid choice for bikepacking adventures, whether you're heading out for an overnight trip or just need some extra storage on your ride.

Van Rysel Road Cycling Shoes Road 100 review
Van Rysel Road Cycling Shoes Road 100 review

As you can see from our photos, the Road 100 shoes by Decathlon’s Van Rysel are a sleek, aerodynamic design that looks like a much more expensive shoe.

The North Face Thermoball Traction Mule Slippers review
The North Face Thermoball Traction Mule Slippers review

The North Face Thermoball Traction Mule Slippers are a cool, adventure-inspired homeware option for those seeking warmth and comfort during the cold winter months.

Trek Procaliber 6 (2024) mountain bike review
Trek Procaliber 6 (2024) mountain bike review

The Procaliber 6 is an affordable cross-country mountain bike, built for those who crave adventure on challenging trails.

Adidas Terrex freehiker low review
Adidas Terrex freehiker low review

After a great experience with Adidas’ freehiker high top boots, we opted to test the freehiker low top trainers and had a similarly great experience!

Columbia Mazama Trail Shell Jacket review
Columbia Mazama Trail Shell Jacket review

As we train for the Silk Road Mountain Race and the other bikepacking adventures, we’re always on the lookout for gear that can keep, and this waterproof shell jacket certainly delivers on performance.

Belstaff Trialmaster pro wax jacket review
Belstaff Trialmaster pro wax jacket review

The Belstaff Trialmaster Pro Wax Jacket—a stylish and high-quality choice for adventure motorcycling. Its retro vibe, combined with modern protection, makes it a standout piece of motorcycle apparel.

Montane Featherlite Micro-Down Jacket review
Montane Featherlite Micro-Down Jacket review

The Montane Featherlite Down Micro Jacket stands out as a really versatile and lightweight option for us outdoor enthusiasts engaged in a range of adventuress, from climbing, bikepacking to mountain walking.

Montane Icarus lightweight down jacket
Montane Icarus lightweight down jacket

The Montane Icarus jacket boasts versatility and comfort, making it a good choice for a range of outdoor adventures in various conditions.

Gerber Onyx 50 hand torch review
Gerber Onyx 50 hand torch review

The Onyx 50 flashlight presents a blend of features that make it a practical option for outdoor pursuits. With its compact size, push-button tailcap switch, and an output of 30 lumens, it provides adequate brightness for various tasks.

MSR blizzard tent stakes review
MSR blizzard tent stakes review

The MSR Blizzard tent stakes are a type of tent pegs specifically designed for use in snow or really soft sand.

Designed to provide a secure anchor for your tent or shelter in snowy or loose soil conditions, ensuring that your shelter stays in place during inclement weather.

Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author: Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a website design and branding studio that works with brands all over the world, a former Royal Marines officer and former risk advisor to the BBC.

Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS), a Guinness World Record holder for rowing over 3500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities!

https://www.hiatus.design
Previous

Apple Watch Series 9 review
Next

Shimano PD-M520 SPD Pedals review