Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre review

With both tubeless ready or clincher capabilities, the specific gravel tyre is designed for both speed and traction

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Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre

The Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Road tyre finds the balance between low rolling resistance and grip, if it was a tenner cheaper, then it would certainly make the top spot. 

Fast rolling resistance

Tubeless ready

Puncture resistant

Price compared to peers

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Hannah Bussey

The thing with gravel road bikes, is that you want to be able to ride them on gravel and road. It doesn't sound that complicated, but when it comes to choosing what tyres to ride, finding a one that is grippy, puncture resistant and fast rolling can feel impossible. However, promising to tick all three of the above is the Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre, meaning we just had to take it out for a ride.

Buy now: Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre from RutlandCycling for £37.99

The Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre is purpose built to roll fast while providing confident traction across all road surfaces. In fact, it's one of the early adopters of the gravel racing scene, and, according to Trek (Bontrager's mother brand) has already earned its stripes in some of the most demanding gravel races.

The shoulder to shoulder low profile block tread patten finds a pitch perfect position between grip and rolling resistance. The bike felt secure leaning in to rapid corners both off and on road. Admittedly I do normally tend to run my tyre PSI pretty low, and thanks to being tubeless ready, the subtle rubber compound of the Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre allowed me to get that malleable softness that I prefer for off the beaten track meandering.

This pressure preference does however often leave me vulnerable to two aspects of tyre ownership, a low rolling resistance and pinch punctures. The later of the two risks was unfounded, not only thanks to the afore mentioned tubeless properties, but because the Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre is bolstered by Bontrager's own tyre protection system 'Inner Strength'.

Bontrager say this 'Inner Strength' is effectively a lightweight nylon insert that provides a strong, supple sidewall protection for added tyre durability, and so far so good. Even the Peak District's finest flinty gravel runs are yet to make an impression on the tyres, either in the centre or side walls.

When it comes to the rolling resistance aspect, low pressure was great for some of the more off than on road rides, but a quick blast around the lanes, canal paths and cycle ways, soon left me wanting less squish and more vavavoom, so I whacked the Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre much closer to their maximum 50psi and the Vitus Energie VR Cyclocross bike  I was riding flew.

Buy now: Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Tyre from Rutland Cycles for £37.99

On this style of terrain the tyres really show their value, rolling exceptionally rapidly, yet still providing sufficient purchase. There was a slight amount of 'pinging' off the odd larger stone, so think I would still ride a lower PSI if it was anything more gnarly, but on the drag strip of a disused railway, this was ideal.

Overall, I really rate the rubber, they certainly felt on a par with my much beloved Panaracer Gravelking SK TLC gravel tyre , but at £10 more, the Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre hasn't quite taken the top stop.

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Hannah is Cycling Weekly’s longest-serving tech writer, having started with the magazine back in 2011. She has covered all things technical for both print and digital over multiple seasons representing CW at spring Classics, and Grand Tours and all races in between.

Hannah was a successful road and track racer herself, competing in UCI races all over Europe as well as in China, Pakistan and New Zealand.

For fun, she's ridden LEJOG unaided, a lap of Majorca in a day, won a 24-hour mountain bike race and tackled famous mountain passes in the French Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites and Himalayas. 

She lives just outside the Peak District National Park near Manchester UK with her partner, daughter and a small but beautifully formed bike collection. 

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In Review: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue Gravel Tire

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In 2018 at Dirty Kanza, we saw none other than Sven Nys unveil prototype Bontrager gravel tires after starting on Challenge Gravel Grinders and suffering multiple flat tires.

That prototype tire, the Bontrager GR1 TLR Team Issue, is now available, and we’re rolling on a set. Today, we take a first look at both the 35mm and 40mm versions. Could the GR1 be the right choice for your next gravel adventure or perfect tire for your next dry conditions cyclocross race ?

The GR1 is a blunt point file tread tire, with three different knob shapes. There’s a row of arrow-shaped center knobs, three rows of six-sided parallelogram-type knobs on each side, and a slightly larger, better-supported side knob of similar shape.

Bontrager's new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 40mm gravel tire features small, tightly-spaced blunt edge knobs. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Bontrager’s new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 40mm gravel tire features small, tightly-spaced blunt edge knobs. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

The small, tightly spaced, squared-off knobs offer a similar knob height and size as the excellent Panaracer Gravel King SK , with a bit more of a directional suggestion and tighter density. Compared to the pointed knobs of the lightweight Challenge Gravel Grinder TLR , the Bontrager GR1 should be longer-wearing, and similar to a Gravel King SK. Knob heights measure just over 1mm tall.

The tire comes in two widths, and two colors. There’s a 40mm wide version, and a 35mm version. Trek’s website lists the 40mm as available in black and brown sidewalls, while the 35mm version is only available in black. Lucky us, we also landed a version of 35mm in brown sidewall, so you know it’s coming. Currently it’s just in a 700c diameter. No 650b/27.5″ version yet.

Bontrager's new GR1 TLR Team Issue gravel tire also comes in a brown sidewall option. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Bontrager’s new GR1 TLR Team Issue gravel tire also comes in a brown sidewall option. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Bontrager GR1 TLR Team Issue Gravel Tire Specs

First, as we’ve long maintained, you can’t trust labeled widths from any brand, so we’ve measured the tires bead-to-bead ( read why here ). The 40mm version is 103mm bead-to-bead, which matches the versatile Teravail Rutland 700x42mm gravel tire , but is a whopping 10mm smaller than the 42mm Challenge Gravel Grinder TLR. The 35mm version measures out at 89mm bead-to-bead, which is 5mm narrower than a 38mm Gravel Grinder (3mm in bead-to-bead equates to about 1mm inflated).

Bontrager's new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 35mm gravel tire tips the scales at 381 grams. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Bontrager’s new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 35mm gravel tire tips the scales at 381 grams. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Our pair of Bontrager's new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 40mm averaged 444 grams. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Our pair of Bontrager’s new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 40mm averaged 444 grams. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

The 120 tpi tires are relatively light. Our pair of 40mm tires averaged 444 grams (nearly identical to the Rutland 700×42), while the 35mm version averaged 381 grams.

Bontrager's new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 40mm gravel tire measures 103mm bead-to-bead and just over 39mm on a 19.2mm wide rim at 30 psi. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Bontrager’s new GR1 TLR Team Issue 700 x 40mm gravel tire measures 103mm bead-to-bead and just over 39mm on a 19.2mm wide rim at 30 psi. © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Inflated at 30 psi, the 40mm tire on a 19.2mm internal width rim measured out at just over 39mm wide. By our calculations, on a 22mm rim, you’d be right at 40mm wide.

Bontrager GR1 TLR Team Issue Gravel Tire Installation

If your fingers and ears are guides, the GR1 Team Issue tires aren’t the tightest fitting tires in the world. Any rim with a decent channel will make for tool-free installation. With a compressor pump on a Vision Team 30 tubeless disc rim, it only took one try to inflate the tire, but it didn’t happen with the satisfying audible snap typical of tight-fitting tubeless tires.

Perhaps in part due to the looser bead, our first inflation didn’t hold long, but with a bit of shaking and spinning, a second inflation up to 60 psi did the trick.

Bontrager GR1 TLR Team Issue Gravel Tire First Impressions

The tight, small knobs of the GR1 create a fast-rolling tire with consistent grip on hardpack dirt and fine gravel. Unlike some tires with a smooth center ridge, the GR1 isn’t so bipolar in terms of traction. You don’t need low pressure or to lean the tire over to get more bite, as it’s consistent through all angles.

The tire is relatively supple. It’s not as supple as the high-volume, lightweight Challenge Gravel Grinder or lightweight but undersized Maxxis Rambler EXO 40mm tire , but initial rides indicate it’s on par with a GravelKing.

Bontrager's new GR1 TLR Team Issue gravel tire comes in two widths (40mm and 35mm) and two sidewall colors (black, brown). © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

Bontrager’s new GR1 TLR Team Issue gravel tire comes in two widths (40mm and 35mm) and two sidewall colors (black, brown). © A. Yee / Cyclocross Magazine

If you’re used to bigger side knobs, cornering on really loose surfaces or on anything damp will require more attention. Of course, as a gravel tire, it’s not really designed for mud, and most typical gravel tires slip in really loose, steep conditions. For more rugged conditions, Bontrager also has its GR2 Team Issue tire , with bigger, more spread-out knobs. (In loose, dry conditions, we’re often counter-intuitively reaching for mud tires or gravel tires with more aggressive tread.)

While our initial rides haven’t been in areas filled with sharp, sidewall-cutting rocks, so far we’ve enjoyed flat-free and burp-free riding, but the tires have been needing a daily top-off of air, perhaps due to the loose bead. We’re optimistic they’ll seal up more over time.

Only a long-term test will reveal long-term durability. However, once the bead seated and sealed the casing did not bubble or leak sealant, suggesting a well-sealed sidewall with plenty of butyl protection.

Stay tuned for a report on durability.

Tire Tested: 700c x 40mm, 700 x 35mm Casing: 120 tpi, black or brown Price: $64.99 (40mm), $54.99 (35mm) Weight: 444g (actual, 40mm), 381g (actual, 35mm) Width: 103mm bead-to-bead (700c x 40mm), 89mm bead to bead (700c x 35mm) More Info: bontrager.com

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Bontrager GR2 TLR Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre

Onto the road or hardpack surface and these tyres are much more at home. The low-profile tread pattern buzzes along reasonably quickly with a distinctive soundtrack, an experience and performance that is not dissimilar to the popular Schwalbe G-One . Another comparable rival would be the Panaracer GravelKing.

Another benefit of the tyre design is a decent weight, 440g on the scales (the GR1 is 10g lighter) and both are lighter than the aforementioned G-One. Curiously, and perhaps highlighting the fact that the company is merely dipping a toe in the gravel market, you only have the choice of a 700x40mm size.

Bontrager GR2 TLR Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre

In my opinion that is the sweet spot for a gravel bike that needs to perform well on and off-road if speed is at all a priority, so I don't mind the lack of sizes. Still, it would be nice to see a wider offering for those who might want narrower or wider versions.

It's a tubeless tyre so, naturally, I dug out the tubeless sealant and popped the tyres onto a tubeless-ready rim. The tyres are a loose fit, which on the Enve G23 wheels I've been using to test these tyres required a tubeless inflator to get that quick burst of air needed to pop the beads up into the bead seat.

DSCF5452.JPG

During a couple of months of testing that has taken in as much off-road as road use, and lots of conditions from deep mud to frozen trails, the tyres have performed well. I love their turn of speed and they don't hold you back on the road much at all, you can whirr along at a decent lick quite happily. Yet turn off-road and there's enough grip to deal with most conditions you're likely to encounter.

If you want more ability and confidence in very gloopy conditions, however, I would not recommend these tyres. The Compass Steilacoom  or a Maxxis Rambler, WTB Resolute or WTB Nano are a better bet.

> Buyer's Guide: 16 of the best gravel and adventure tyres

Where these tyres make back up speed, literally, is on the road. They roll speedily along the road and progress isn't accompanied by too much noise, though more than a slick road tyre. And for dealing with mucky roads covered in wet leaves or agricultural muck (okay, poo!) the GR2 tyres are very surefooted and planted. Comfort is obviously a benefit of a bigger volume tyre and these are indeed jolly comfortable on the rough and poorly maintained roads round my way.

They should last too: durability has been fine throughout this testing period. I've not suffered one flat and inspection of the tyre reveals no cuts or slices to the tyre either on the top or sidewalls.

Surefooted, grippy and fast tyres in most conditions except the boggiest mud

If you're thinking of buying this product using a cashback deal why not use the road.cc Top Cashback page and get some top cashback while helping to support your favourite independent cycling website

road.cc test report

Make and model: Bontrager GR2 TLR Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre

Size tested: 700x40C

Tell us what the product is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

Bontrager says, "The GR2 Team Issue gravel tyre is designed for fast-rolling performance and biting traction on even the most rugged gravel roads. It has proven success at the most demanding gravel races, and features Inner Strength Casting that provides lightweight puncture protection without sacrificing smooth, supple feel. Plus, you can go tubeless for better performance and even more puncture protection."

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

Bontrager lists these features:

A gravel tyre that provides excellent traction for confidence across the roughest roads

Fast rolling with consistent, predictable traction for a variety of road conditions

Tubeless Ready (TLR) for easy tubeless setup and puncture protection

Supple and strong Inner Strength casing provides lightweight sidewall protection

Lightweight 120 TPI casing provides great ride feel and tire performance

For the right conditions, ie when it's not too muddy, these are a good choice.

So far they seem very durable.

They're a reasonable weight for the size.

A big volume tyre at low pressure sure eats up the bumps.

It's not stupidly expensive like some tyres, you can pay a bit less for a similar size gravel tyre 

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Worked well for mixed terrain riding with good speed on the road and decent grip in the loose.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Rolls fast.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Won't cope with the muddiest mud.

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested on road.cc?

It's a bit pricier than some other tyres in this category

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes

Would you consider buying the product? Yes

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes

Use this box to explain your overall score

A good tyre for road and hardpack gravel riding with easy installation and reasonably priced, if not the cheapest.

Overall rating: 7 /10

About the tester

Age: 31   Height: 180cm   Weight: 67kg

I usually ride:    My best bike is:

I've been riding for: 10-20 years   I ride: Every day   I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, cyclo-cross, commuting, touring, mountain biking

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trek gr1 vs gr2

David worked on the road.cc tech team from 2012-2020. Previously he was editor of Bikemagic.com and before that staff writer at RCUK. He's a seasoned cyclist of all disciplines, from road to mountain biking, touring to cyclo-cross, he only wishes he had time to ride them all. He's mildly competitive, though he'll never admit it, and is a frequent road racer but is too lazy to do really well. He currently resides in the Cotswolds, and you can now find him over on his own YouTube channel David Arthur - Just Ride Bikes . 

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Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe Review: 500 Miles Later

trek gr1 vs gr2

After a combined 500+ miles of riding, Miles and Lucas report back on Bontrager’s GR2 Gravel Bike Shoe, which was released earlier this spring. The lace-up closure and no-frills design are likely to appeal to bikepackers and gravel enthusiasts alike. Learn more here…

trek gr1 vs gr2

After catching wind of a new dedicated gravel bike shoe from Bontrager, I was quick to get my hands on a pair to try them for myself. My first impressions were positive. Enough to spark Lucas’ curiosity, and he ended up picking up a pair as well. Collectively, we’ve now logged more than 500 miles in the new Bontrager GR2 Shoes—throwing as much as we could at them for just under two months. Although the GR2 Gravel Bike Shoe is distinctly marketed towards those riding gravel, it’s proven to handle all types of terrain effectively, and is a great option for bikepackers as well.

Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe Review

This is the first lace-up cycling shoe I’ve used. Even my first pair of shoes had some sort of ratcheting buckle designed to secure my foot in even the harshest of terrain . Since then, I’ve always used BOA dials, velcro, and speed-lace systems on my shoes, replacing the old fashioned lace-up shoe for good. Or so I thought. I was eager to give a lace-up clipless cycling shoe a shot, partially due to their more casual, coffee-shop-appropriate style, and partly out of a growing frustration with buckles and dials wrong.

Bontrager’s GR2 is designed around a synthetic leather upper, lace-up closure, and their slightly roomier inForm Race last. Both the heel and toe box are protected by a rubberized coating, and the Bronze Series sole is said to be “stiff yet walkable.” I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the lace-up closure, which has required no adjustment or tightening on numerous multi-hour rides. The elastic lace keeper does in fact keep the laces, and I’ve found the fit to be noticeably roomier than other clipless cycling shoes I’ve worn. The lace-up closure also allows for a wider range of fit, meaning I’ve had no problem riding with heavyweight wool socks or my bulkier Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Socks.

Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe Review

There’s not much to the synthetic leather upper—it’s thin and very pliable. Although I have yet to see any signs of early wear, it’s the one aspect of the shoe I could see failing. That said, I think the pliable upper partners well with laces and allows the shoe to really hug the foot. The only other gripe I have are the toe spikes, or rather, the toe spike placeholders. They provide no grip on their own, as they are constructed from a harder rubber than the rest of the sole. As a result, I’ve slipped several times during brief moments of unclipped pedalling. I believe the shoes would be better off without them, but perhaps those who sprint up muddy inclinces would feel differently. Otherwise, the remainder of the sole has held up well.

The GR2 shoes are flexible and comfortable enough for short hike-a-bikes, but wouldn’t be my first choice for loose, rocky terrain. In that regard, they’re better suited to gravel riding. They feature Bontrager’s nylon composite bronze-series sole (a stiffness index of 6 out of 14), which I found to be just a touch more flexible than what I prefer. I could see the GR2 shoes as a great option for someone seeking an ultra comfortable and versatile shoe, which may include those newer to riding clipped in. If you’re worried about purchasing a pair online, or perhaps this is your first time wearing Bontrager, their 30-Day Unconditional Guarantee means you can use the shoes for up to 30 days from the purchase date—if they aren’t doing it for you, you can get a full refund.

I’ve noticed the colour of the shoe has mellowed after a few good rides, and truthfully I like how they look now better than when I first received them. They’re less mustard-yellow now, more of a sandy yellow. I’m sure this will change when I finally decide to wash them.

Some Thoughts From Lucas

At least for my feet, these things are seriously comfortable. By the end of my first spin in the Bontrager GR2s, I realized I’ve been wearing the wrong cycling shoes for a while now. I’ve been trying out various pairs of shoes since my old favorites were discontinued a few years back, but nothing has felt quite right. At least until now. The GR2’s slightly roomier fit and more flexible sole make for a shoe that’s uniquely comfortable for long days on and off the bike. I don’t feel like I’m in any rush to take them off after a big ride, and that’s saying something. They seem to breathe well, too, as I’ve been doing most of my riding down in the Arizona desert and my feet have yet to overheat.

Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe

I can’t imagine paying $300+ for a cycling shoe that I’ll inevitably destroy, and I think the GR2 is priced right at $140, which is incidentally about as much as I’m willing to spend on a cycling shoe. And I think you get what you pay for here. The GR2 doesn’t exude quality or feel particularly burly, but it gets the job done, and does so very comfortably. I’ve noticed a bit of fraying in a few spots around the shoe, and the laces feel somewhat delicate, but the sole and uppers have held up well. The rubberized “GnarGuard” coating on the toes and heels should help extend the life of the shoes, and it offers a little bit of added protection as a bonus.

What color is this shoe, really? Your guess is as good as mine. I don’t think I particularly liked the color when it arrived, but it’s been growing on me. In part because I’m getting used to it, but I also suspect it might be changing with time. Sometimes the GR2s are more brown, other times more yellow. One thing’s for sure, though: given their lighter color, they scuff up and show dirt pretty quickly. But maybe that’s not such a bad thing, as the more patina they take on, the less self conscious I feel about being the guy in yellow shoes. I’d normally go for black shoes, but I’m not crazy about the black version of the GR2. Hopefully it sticks around and they introduce some additional color options next season.

Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe

As for the fit, they feel about true to size. For reference, I’m wearing a size EU 46 / US 13, which is what I typically wear in more casual shoes. I don’t think I have particularly wide feet, but most other cycling shoes tend to feel quite narrow. My heel stays firmly in place when they’re laced up and there’s a cozy amount of room in the toe box.

Overall, I’ve been impressed with Bontrager’s GR2, so much so that I think I’ll pick up a second pair. I’ve spent twice as much for shoes that were half as comfortable in the past, so I’m happy to see a solid shoe at a reasonable price point. And I’ve grown to appreciate the simplicity of their lace-up closure after spending far too much time fussing with various other systems. If you’re in the market for a new shoe for riding gravel and can get past the flashy color, I’d recommend giving them a try.

Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe Review

  • Lace-up closure holds firmly and allows more room for adjustment.
  • Roomy fit is great for long days of riding.
  • Old Style Gold colourway is fun and ages well.
  • Enough sole flex to walk comfortably.
  • 30-Day Unconditional Guarantee. If you’re not happy, bring them back within 30 days for a full refund or exchange.
  • Toe spikes. No benefit to the majority of cyclists.
  • Lightweight upper doesn’t feel very rugged.
  • Sizes available 3.5 to 14.5
  • Size Tested 11
  • Weight (as tested) TBD
  • Place of manufacture China
  • Price $139.99
  • Manufacturer’s details TrekBikes.com

I’ve been quite happy with the Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoes. Although they share more than a few technical details with Bontrager’s BOA-equipped Foray mountain bike shoe, the new colourway and lace-up design sets them apart. They flex enough for walking, fit comfortably, and the synthetic leather upper looks great and breathes well. The roomy fit and laces allow for thicker socks when the temperature drops, and they pair well with a shoe cover for riding in wet conditions. The GR2 is a great warm weather shoe that’s perfect for everyday riding, commuting, cross-country riding, and… you guessed it… gravel.

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Which GORUCK Bag Should I Buy?

GORUCK has a lot of different bags (rucks) to chose from. Here is our take on which one(s) you should buy.

Full Video Review of What GORUCK Bag You Should Buy.

First Question: What are you using the bag for?

Each GORUCK bag has unique features that make them the perfect bag for various situations. That said, here are the main case-uses that most people find needing a GORUCK bag .

  • EDC – Every Day Carry
  • EDC & Rucking
  • Travel & Rucking
  • One Bag to Rule them ALL

Best GORUCK Bag for Every Day Carry

When it comes to EDC, I have three suggestions.

My personal favorite EDC is the GORUCK 15L Bullet Ruck (check out our full Bullet Ruck review ). It is the perfect size for a few notebooks, a laptop, and some misc files, pens, plugs, and whatnot.

trek gr1 vs gr2

If you need more space than the 15L, the GORUCK GR1 21L is my preferred ruck. While the GR1 does come in 26L, I find that ends up having way too much empty space.

trek gr1 vs gr2

If you love compartments, I recommend the 26L GR2 (check out our full 26L GR2 review ). The bag has all the functionality and compartments of the GR2, but it shrinks down to that reasonable 26L size.

trek gr1 vs gr2

Best GORUCK Bag for Rucking

The GORUCK Rucker (check out of full Rucker 4.0 review ).was literally built for rucking and ruck workouts and is hands-down the best choice. I prefer the 20L version because there are rarely times that I need the extra space of the 25L. With the 20L you have room for the weight plate, water bladder, a light jacket, some snacks and everything I’d ever need for a ruck.

trek gr1 vs gr2

If you plan on doing any of the Tier 1 GORUCK events, you may want to consider the Rucker Long Range (check out of full Rucker Long Range review ). The extra size will allow you to carry the full packing list and provide some compartmentalizing. However, for most day-to-day rucking, I feel like you’ll the Long Range is too big.

Finally, the GR1 is the original Rucking backpack. It is a great choice but will require some suggested mods like adding a new framesheet ( instructions here ) and cutting up some yoga blocks to raise the ruck plate within the laptop compartment.

Best GORUCK Bag for Travel

My hands-down favorite ruck for travel is the 40L GR2 . The size, compartmentalization, and TSA carryon compliant size make it an absolutely amazing travel bag.

trek gr1 vs gr2

If your travel is mostly weekends or overnight trips, the 26L GR1 is a solid choice. All the space you need and easily converts to an around town backpack if you need it. In fact, my wife and I traveled on a 10-day trip overseas recently and both carried a 26L GORUCK Heritage ruck. We had to pack fairly minimal (leave the extra pair of shoes), but it totally worked.

Best GORUCK for EDC and Rucking

Here’s the big caveat. Any bag you use for rucking is going to begin to stink eventually. As you ruck, you sweat. The sweat soaks into the ruck and begins to stink.

That said, I am not a huge fan of using my EDC for Rucking.

But, if you’re determined to make it work, I’d recommend the GR1 or the Rucker . Personally, I’d probably go with the GR1 from an esthetic perspective as I think it is the sexier EDC and will work just fine for rucking.

Best GORUCK bag for Travel and Rucking

As noted above, I think this is a risky mix because of the funk factor. But, if you must, I think the Rucker Long Range or the GR1 are your go-to for this use and the determination on which one rests solely in your space needs for packing.

My recommendation for travel is to stick with the GR2 and buy a GORUCK Simple Sandbag (check out our full Simple Sandbag Review ) that you take with you on your trip, using that for any workouts or rucks you want to do.

One Ruck to Rule Them All

If you are only going to get one GORUCK bag, I have to recommend the GR1 . It is the classic, flagship, king of all rucksacks. As they say, it is built to be used “from Baghdad to NYC.” You simply can’t go wrong with this bag.

trek gr1 vs gr2

So, what do you think? Which is the best GORUCK bag in your opinion? Did I get anything wrong in my recommendations? Sound off in the comments below.

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GORUCK GR1 Review – The Original World’s Toughest Backpack

Last Updated on December 21, 2023

Clicks may earn a commission, which supports testing.  Disclosure

One of the major advantages of modern technology has been that it has made it possible for people to work remotely while being remote. But this frequent movement isn’t free of itches. One of them is the need for a durable and multipurpose backpack. Even if you are someone who doesn’t work remotely but you do travel a lot, then you will also be feeling the need for a bag that meets all your requirements but also looks good. In this article, we will be looking at the GORUCK GR1 which is one of the most popular backpacks in the world.

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gr1 heritage review

Table of Contents

Origin of GORUCK GR1

There are a few rare companies that have a very interesting backstory. GORUCK has one such origin story. But it has less to do with the product and the company than it has to do with the founder and how he ended up creating this company.

The year was 2008 when Jason McCarthy, the founder of GoRuck, had left the Special Forces. He was a veteran of the Army 10th SFG. Once returning home, he had his heart broken. With his life going off rails, he used all the experiences he had while he was overseas and built a durable bag that would be able to tackle almost every condition, be it an urban commute or a trek in the hills. He started the company so that he could be a voice for good and take care of his fellow veterans. He created a very well-designed bag by taking the best elements from the military bags and packs that he had used. In the beginning the sales were very slow, but his partnership with Tough Mudder led to a reputation for Jason himself. In order to show how tough they were, Jason used to wear the GR1 during races. He used to sell his bags in the parking lot after the event ended. Eventually the partnership became stronger and that led to the creation of the GORUCK Challenges which made the company famous.

GORUCK GR1 Review

goruck gr1 heritage review

Highlights of the GORUCK GR1 Backpack

  • Opens Flat: The GORUCK G1 shares a design that is similar to the medical rucks that are used by special forces. Like the medical rucks, the GR1 opens flat. This means the whole storing part of the bag is completely accessible at once. This makes it very easy to pack the bag and also easy to organize the contents of the bag.
  • Extra Padded Straps: The Gr1 is capable of storing a lot of items at a time. This is a good thing to have, but this might make the bag a bit heavy sometimes. This in turn might hurt your shoulders if the bag is carried on your back for a long time. So to avoid this, the GORUCK GR1 comes with extra padded shoulder straps. Even the top handles have some extra padding. This not only makes it easier to carry heavier loads but it also makes it more comfortable.
  • Silent Zipper Pulls: We all have gone through a situation where our noisy zippers gave us more attention then we wanted. Well, with the GORUCK GR1 this won’t be the case. It comes with YKK zippers which are constructed from parachute 550 cord. This makes the zipper capable of very silent pulls and even makes it glove-friendly.
  • Bombproof Laptop Compartment: This is one of the key advertising points of the GR1 backpack. It comes with a separate compartment to store your laptop. The compartment is located next to your back and comes with extra reinforcement for the laptop. So, according to GoRucks, even if you carry your bag to combat, your laptop will remain secure and protected.
  • Frame Sheet: To compliment the laptop compartment, the GR1 comes with a hard frame sheet made of plastic. Having this extra plastic frame sheet balances the laptop compartment and makes the bag more stabilized. This allows it to carry even more weight comfortably. However, if you want, you can remove this frame if you don’t require it.
  • False Bottom: The GORUCK GR1 also comes with a false bottom. This is located inside the laptop compartment. The main purpose of this is to keep your laptop from hitting the hard bottom when you lay the bag straight. This keeps your laptop protected if you accidentally drop the bag vertically.
  • Multiple Pockets: Going true to its multipurpose nature, the GR1 comes with multiple pockets to store a wide array of objects. It comes with a total of 3 internal pockets. One of them is a large elastic pocket while the other one is a large mesh zippered pocket. The third and final internal pocket is a small go-to pocket.
  • External Slant Pocket: Along with its 3 internal pockets, the GR1 also comes with another external pocket. This external pocket is a slant pocket and it makes it easier to access the keys, cards, snacks, and other small items quickly.
  • MOLLE Attachments: In addition to all that, the GORUCK GR1 also comes with 3 different rows of external and internal MOLLE webbing. MOLLE is short for “modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment”. Using a MOLLE webbing you can attach multi-tools, knives, magazine pouches, and many other types of equipment to your GR1 bag. This lets you customize the GR1 however you want and fit it according to your requirements.
  • Rainproof: One important feature that is anticipated from most backpacks is to be rainproof. The GR1 delivers this. This bag is highly water-resistant or you can say that it is rainproof.
  • Optimized for Hydration: GORUCK has its own Hydration Bladder systems that are tough, and are very easy to clean. Hydration Bladder systems are the perfect choice for hydration on the move. The GR1 has an interior MOLLE webbing that lets you clip the hydration bladder with a carabiner. The hose can be fed under the top handle through the exit port on the handle.
  • Perfect Travel Size: The GORUCK GR! is the perfect size for all your travel purposes. It is a TSA compliant backpack. You can easily fit it under the seat in front of you.

goruck heritage review

GORUCK GR1 Appearance

The GORUCK GR1 has a very minimalist look and its exterior look is relatively anemic. It has a single big compartment as its main storage unit and another small compartment in the front. That’s how minimal it is. On the outside you can find 3 rows of Molles. The molle webbings do a good job of blending with the bag. If you look at the bag from a little further away, you won’t even notice the molle webbings and the bag will seem like a single block. It looks just like any other school backpack if you look at it from a distance and you won’t be able to tell the difference.

To comply with the Army uniforms regulation 670-1, which forbids backpacks having any kind of corporate logos on their exterior, the GORUCK GR1 has no branding on the outside. There is nothing written on the bag’s exterior and neither is anything attached to it. However, it comes with a 2″ x 3″ velcro patch on the outside. This hook and loop panel lets you attach any logo that you want to attach to it. This way, you can customize the exterior of the bag if you want. The only branding on the GR1 is the GORUCK brand logo inside the bag.

The GORUCK GR1 comes in different colors and patterns. These keep changing now and then. However the only constant color is the Black color. It is also the most common one and is sold the most. The bag has a military look and the molle webbings let you attach many kinds of equipment to customize it according to your needs.

GORUCK GR1 Organization

The GORUCK GR1 is designed to make it easy for organizing. Thanks to its flat opening design, which means the complete storing compartment is accessible at a time. This makes it easier for the user to be able to organize things in the bag. In terms of storage capacity, the GR1 is capable of holding a lot more than one might think at first glance. And even if that doesn’t meet your requirements, you can always organize it to fit even more because of how easy it is to organize.

The one part which is most easily accessible, to anyone using the backpack, is the slash pocket on the front. But you should know that this pocket doesn’t have the space to store much at all. It doesn’t have that much volume at all but you might be able to store a few things if the main compartment isn’t filled out. But in case the bag is filled, then you will have a hard time trying to fit anything at all in the front pocket. The best you could do is store flat and slime items, like your passports, plane tickets, and other similar items.

goruck gr1 review

There’s also a Bombproof Laptop Compartment under the shoulder straps on the backside of the bag. This isn’t an acclaim given to it by us but given by GORUCK themselves. This is one of the key advertising points of the GR1 backpack. This raised and well-padded compartment comes with some extra reinforcement and adds extra protection for the laptop, and keeps it safe no matter how badly the bag is handled (up to some extent). So, according to GoRucks, even if you carry your bag to combat, your laptop will remain secure and protected. The only minor hiccup with this compartment is its slightly awkward location. It is located behind the shoulder straps and this makes it a little hard to access. Other than that, everything’s perfect.

Complimenting the laptop compartment, you will also find a hard frame sheet made of plastic. Having this extra plastic frame sheet balances the laptop compartment and makes the bag more stabilized. This allows them to carry even more weight comfortably. However, if you want, you can remove this frame if you don’t require it.

Below the slash pocket you will find a row of molle webbings that can be used to add some extra organization. MOLLE stands for “modular, lightweight load-carrying equipment” and they can be used by the user to attach multi-tools, knives, magazine pouches, and many other types of equipment to your GR1 backpack.

Coming to the main compartment, there are two zippered pockets on the front panel. The GR1 comes with a total of 3 internal pockets. One of them is a large elastic pocket while the other one is a large mesh zippered pocket. The third and final internal pocket is a small go-to pocket. The pocket on top is a solid 1/3 pocket, while the lower pocket is a 2/3 mesh pocket. There’s also a third pocket for small easy to pick items. For those who like different colorful setups, will love the color-coordinated zippers.

On the backside of the bag, you will find 3 rows of molle webbing which you can use to extend the bag by attaching different attachments to it. There’s also a sleeve with a little compression on the sides. This is located in the lower section. You can use this to insert a ruck plate frame sheet. You could also add a second laptop if you want.

goruck gr1 backpack review

GORUCK GR1 Quality and Comfort

If there’s one thing that the GORUCK is known for, then it is for the impeccable quality of its bags. Even someone who isn’t that fond of GORUCK will agree (However this is very rare). Thanks to its almost perfect quality bags, the GoRuckus has earned itself somewhat of a cult following. If you aren’t sure what we are talking about, a simple google search will make it all clear for you.

The GR1 like any other GORUCK bag has the same materials, same stitching, and even the same patterns. It is impressively built and is perfectly stitched with not a single stitch out of place. Some of this quality can be credited to the world-class soft-goods factories of Saigon, where the GR1 was manufactured. In Fact this is one of the things separating the GR1 from other GORUCK backpacks. Thanks to its impressive build quality, you don’t have to worry about damaging the bag while throwing it around.

One way of lifting the bag and moving it around is using the grab handle on top. The handle has extra padding and is comfortable to hold and carry around. The Gr1 is capable of storing a lot of items at a time. This is a good thing to have, but this might make the bag a bit heavy sometimes. This in turn might hurt your shoulders if the bag is carried on your back for a long time. So to avoid this, the GORUCK GR1 comes with extra padded shoulder straps. Even the top handles have some extra padding. This not only makes it easier to carry heavier loads but it also makes it more comfortable.

Below the top handle you will find a hook-and-loop flap that you can use as an exit port for Hydration Bladders like GoRuck’s own Hydration Bladder systems which are tough and are very easy to clean. Hydration Bladder systems are the perfect choice for hydration on the move. The GR1 has an interior MOLLE webbing that lets you clip the hydration bladder with a carabiner. The hose can be fed under the top handle through this exit port beneath the handle. The only thing missing with the GR1 is a side handle which would have made an already great backpack even more perfect. But this is something you can live with thanks to its extra padded top handle.

Like the top handles, the shoulder straps on the GORUCK GR1 also comes with extra padding. They are one of the most comfortable straps you will find in any of the backpacks available out there in the market. However you should keep this in mind that the straps are a little hard when they first arrive. They eventually get more comfortable after some usage. This is a minor hiccup and most users won’t be affected by this unless you have been using a different GORUCK backpack before this.

Maintaining its consistency, the back panel of the GR1 is also having some extra padding just like the top handle and the shoulder straps. It is made from 1000D material, which is the same material that the other parts of the GR1 is made of. But compared to the others, the back panel has been modified a little, and hence it is breathable. This makes it extra comfortable and also absorbs some sweat if that’s what you were wondering.

GORUCK sells a few extra pieces of equipment like the padded hip belt, which attaches via the molle webbing and a sternum strap. Given its price tag, it would have been better if GORUCK had this by default and required buying an extra add on. Overall, the GORUCK GR1 is built from high-quality materials and you shouldn’t experience any problems like scars. However if you do experience that, you should be happy to know that the GR1 comes with a Scars Lifetime Guarantee. So if you break anything, GORUCK will fix that for you, free of cost.

Best Molle Gears for GR1

One of the best features of the GR1 is that it has 3 rows of Molle webbings which can be used to attach a few molle gears to make the GR1 even better. So here are a few of the best molle gears for the GR1.

  • GORUCK Padded Field Pocket – GR1 Heritage : The Padded field Pocket is a modular organization pouch to store your Travel & EDC essentials. This is an exclusive waxed canvas edition that is built with heritage waxed canvas and premium leather handle. It lets you organize your electronics, use it as a Dopp kit, for camera gear, or with your rucksack for additional space and organization. It also has 3 additional interior pockets that help keep the items organized. To keep the content protected, the GR! heritage has extra padding. To attach the GR1 Field Pocket to your GR1 backpack, you can use the MOLLE webbing system. This is the same system used by the US Armed Forces.
  • GORUCK Simple Side Pocket : The GORUCK Simple Side Pocket is a simpler and toned-down version of the GORUCK Padded Field Pocket – GR1 Heritage. Like the GR1 heritage, the Simple Slide pocket also lets users organize their electronics, use it as a Dopp kit, for camera gear, or with your rucksack for additional space and organization. It also uses the MOLLE webbing system to be attached to the GR1 backpack. The only difference is that the GORUCK Simple Side Pocket attaches on the side of the GR1. It gives you quick access to items you want on the go as well as provides a better internal organization when you need easy access to something.
  • GORUCK Full Panel Water Bottle Pocket : This is another Molle gear from GORUCK for you GR1. The GORUCK Full Panel Water Bottle Pocket provides the users with a “secure, solid enclosure for a Nalgene style water bottle, or other items needing quick and easy access.” So other than your water bottle you can store a lot of other items that you want to access quickly. It is designed to work with the MOLLE webbing system and can be attached to multiple places. You can attach it to the side, the front of the backpack, or even on the inside of the GR1. It also has a 2×3 VELCRO® which means you can attach it on top of the exterior.
  • GORUCK Wire Drop : This isn’t exactly a Molle gear but is nonetheless very useful. The GORUCK Wire Drop brings RuckSuck organization for everyday carry, travel situations, and even outings. It gives you quick and easy access to all your electronic gadgets and accessories. This makes it a useful piece of equipment to have and it makes things a lot easier. It has a simple folding design and comes with a single buckle closure for a much more secure hold. There are a total of three different zippered storage areas to store your essentials. It is constructed from the 1000D CORDURA® material and that makes it rugged and durable. For better content visibility it has meshes on the inner part. It comes with YKK zippers that have a color-coded 550 cord pull. The Wire Dopp lets you stash your “charging cable, earbuds, and adapter bits for your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or music device”. You can then stash the Wire Dopp into the slant pocket or the interior mesh pocket of the bag for highly organized and have quick, simple access
  • Mil-Tec Utility Pouch: The Mil-tech Utility pouch can be a great extension for the GR1. You can clip the pouch onto the molle webbing of the GR1 backpack. The Mil-tec pouch has a black and super sleek design and is very discreet. To add to it, it’s also rugged and durable. The pouch is made of waterproof material. It also features a drain hole at the bottom to let the water out. Along with this, it also comes with a snow skirt. This makes sure that none of your gadgets will be damaged or affected if the bag gets wet. To hold it firm, there is a velcro as well as a drawstring on the inside and also a flap that can be folded if required. This makes sure that the stuff inside the pouch remains safe.

GORUCK GR1 vs GORUCK GR2

No matter how good a product is, unless and until you compare it with another similar product, you can’t exactly tell how good it is. So for this we will be comparing the GORUCK GR1 and the GORUCK GR2 and see how both these bags fare against each other.

GORUCK GR1 vs GORUCK GR2 – Sizing

While the GR1 is geared towards a minimalist packing, the GR2 has slightly more space in terms of the storing volume

The GORUCK GR1 comes in two different sizes. The first size is the smaller 21 L volume backpack. It has a height of 18 inches.

The larger variant of the GR1 comes with a capacity of 26 L. It also has a slightly longer height and is 20 inches tall.

The GORUCK GR2 packs more space in almost similar form factors. This is because of the additional outer compartment. The smaller GR2 comes with a volume of 34 L. Height wise it is of the same height as the larger 26L GR1 i.e 20 inches. The bigger GR2 can pack a volume of up to 40 L and is 22 inches long.

goruck gr1 vs gr2

GORUCK GR1 vs GORUCK GR2 – Exterior Design

From the outside, both the GR1 and the GR2 have a very similar design.

On the exterior the GR1 features a slant pocket and a 2X3 velcro to attach things. It also has a Molle webbing system. In total there are 3 rows of molle webbing on the front and also on both sides as well.

Like the GR1, the GR2 on the outside features a slant pocket and a 2X3 velcro to attach things. And it also features a Molle webbing system like the GR1. The only difference is the number of rows of webbing. While the GR1 had 3 rows, GR2 has 4 rows of molle webbing on the front and also on both sides as well.

GORUCK GR1 vs GORUCK GR2 – Interior Design

This is where the GR1 and the GR2 differ the most. While the GR1 has just a single internal compartment, the GR2 has an Inner and an outer compartment as well.

GR1 comes with a total of 3 internal pockets. One of them is a large elastic pocket while the other one is a large mesh zippered pocket. The third and the final internal pocket is a small go-to pocket where you can keep regularly used items for easy access.

Inner Compartment: This is similar to the inner compartment of the GR1 and comes with a total of 3 internal pockets. One of them is a large elastic pocket while the other one is a large mesh zippered pocket. The third and the final internal pocket is a small go-to pocket where you can keep regularly used items for easy access.

Outer Compartment: The outer compartment of the Gr2 has 4 extra pockets. On one side there is a large mesh zippered pocket with internal dividers and a smaller mesh pocket on the bottom. The other side has two zippered pockets, a small one and a larger one. The smaller pocket is completely concealed while the larger one is a mesh pocket.

GORUCK GR1 vs GORUCK GR2 – Laptop Compartment

Both the GR1 and the GR2 have a laptop compartment at the same location, that is on the back beneath the shoulder straps. They both also have a Frame Sheet inside the compartment. The only difference is the size of the laptop that they can fit.

GR1:  The 21LGR1 can store laptops up to 15 inches while the 26L variant can store laptops of up to 17 inches.

GR2:  Here, both the 34L and the 40L GR2 are capable of storing laptops larger than 17 inches.

This brings us to the end of the review. Let’s now look at the pros and cons of the GR1.

GORUCK GR1 Pros & Cons

  • Comfortable
  • A large number of pockets
  • Very durable build
  • Scars Lifetime Guarantee
  • Minimalist look
  • Great quality materials
  • Price is a little on the higher side
  • Doesn’t comes with a sternum or waist straps
  • Has a break-in period
  • Heavier than other bags of similar size

GORUCK GR1 Review Bottomline

The GORUCK GR1 is a very well built backpack and can be used for both your regular commute and as well as for your travel needs. It has a minimalist design and looks just like any other backpacks. However, it can store a lot more than a regular backpack. There is extra padding on the shoulder straps and the handles which make it easier to hold and carry. Finally, it also comes with a molle webbing system, so you can attach gears to make it even better. It might be a little pricey, but it is worth it. So, if you are looking for a durable and multipurpose backpack, then the GR1 is perfect for you.

Best Rucking Backpack

Best Budget Tactical Backpack

Best Digital Nomad Backpack

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About Jeremy Noronha

Hey! I’m Jeremy Noronha and I’m a online marketer and full time traveler.

I’ve been living out of a single backpack traveling the world since early 2016. I used to work as Technical SEO Consultant (Former Head of SEO at Foundr.com) and travel blogger.

I now blog on JeremyNoronha.com writing about whatever is on my mind 😁

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IMAGES

  1. GR2 34L vs GR1

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  2. Packing for the Weekend in a GORUCK GR1, GR2, GR3: The Standard Loadout

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  3. GR2 34L vs GR1

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  4. GR2 34L vs GR1

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  5. GR2 34L vs GR1

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  6. GoRuck GR1 26l & GoRuck GR2 26l Size Comparison

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  1. Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre review

    Buy now: Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre from RutlandCycling for £37.99. The Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel tyre is purpose built to roll fast while providing confident traction across ...

  2. Reviewed: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue Gravel Tire 700 x 40mm, 35mm

    Bontrager GR1 TLR Team Issue Gravel Tire Specs. First, as we've long maintained, you can't trust labeled widths from any brand, so we've measured the tires bead-to-bead (read why here).The 40mm version is 103mm bead-to-bead, which matches the versatile Teravail Rutland 700x42mm gravel tire, but is a whopping 10mm smaller than the 42mm Challenge Gravel Grinder TLR.

  3. Review: Bontrager GR1 TLR Team Issue Gravel Tyre

    Reflecting the 'Team Issue' label, Trek does indeed issue the 40mm GR1 to its team riders - Sven Nys rode the GR1s on the second 50 miles of his ill-fated Dirty Kanza 200 attempt this year, after his chosen tyres suffered repeated flats. ... The GR1 comes in just the 40mm size, matched by the slightly more open-tread and heavier 40mm GR2 at ...

  4. Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Tire

    For the roads less travelled. The GR2 Team Issue gravel tire is designed for fast-rolling performance and biting traction on even the most rugged gravel roads. It has proven success at the most demanding gravel races, and features Inner Strength Casting that provides lightweight puncture protection without sacrificing smooth, supple feel.

  5. Review: Bontrager GR2 Team Issue TLR Gravel Tyre

    The GR2 Team Issue is designed for fast-rolling performance and biting traction on even the most rugged gravel roads, and this test pair has been ridden over every single road and off-road surface you could imagine and come out smiling. ... Trek/Bontrager says: "A purpose-built gravel tyre that rolls fast while providing confident traction ...

  6. Bontrager GR2 TLR Team Issue Gravel Road Tyre

    The Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel Tyre is one of two new gravel tyres launched by the company this year, with this one better suited to muddier trails where it copes surprisingly well, while still rolling nicely on the road and hard gravel surfaces. ... Another benefit of the tyre design is a decent weight, 440g on the scales (the GR1 is 10g ...

  7. Review: Bontrager GR1

    All said and done the Bontrager GR-1 Team Issue tires blew away my expectations. I went from gingerly rolling through the rocks to sending it off of slabs - totally confident in the tire. For those looking for a gravel tire that can roll fast and not flat - look no further than the Bontrager GR-1. Price: $55-$60.

  8. Buyer's Guide, Full Analysis and Model Comparison

    Bontrager GR1 Comp Gravel: 700Cx40mm 40-622: 495 g: max 50 PSI: 60 TPI: ... Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Gravel: 700Cx40mm 40-622: 435 g: max 50 PSI: 120 TPI: ⚫️? Black-brown: Bead: Folding, Puncture protection: Inner Strength, ... Trek Gravel Bikes 2022 - Prices, Weight, Equipment and Model Overview

  9. Bontrager GR1 Team Issue gravel tyre review

    If you are looking for a versatile and durable tyre for gravel riding, you might want to check out the Bontrager GR1 Team Issue. This 40mm tyre offers a smooth and fast ride on various terrains ...

  10. Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe Review: 500 Miles Later

    After a combined 500+ miles of riding, Miles and Lucas report back on Bontrager's GR2 Gravel Bike Shoe, which was released earlier this spring. The lace-up closure and no-frills design are likely to appeal to bikepackers and gravel enthusiasts alike. Learn more here…. After catching wind of a new dedicated gravel bike shoe from Bontrager, I ...

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    If you need more space than the 15L, the GORUCK GR1 21L is my preferred ruck. While the GR1 does come in 26L, I find that ends up having way too much empty space. If you love compartments, I recommend the 26L GR2 (check out our full 26L GR2 review ). The bag has all the functionality and compartments of the GR2, but it shrinks down to that ...

  12. GR1 or GR2 for First Ruck? : r/Goruck

    I prefer GR1 & during travel pair it with a kit bag. bluedevilboy76 • 6 yr. ago. If you're going to "one bag to rule them all" go GR1 26L or GR2 34L. The 40L is great for traveling but really is too big for edc IMO unless you're packing a change of clothes, cold weather layer, and all of your textbooks all of the time.

  13. Gr2-26L compared to both GR1 and GR2-34L: An Unfolding Review

    So I guess the GR2-26L is my ultimate single laptop bag that can handle it all with room to spare. In the 34L I can fit the works, but it's at its best lugging two laptops and a ton of gear. The 26L feels much less imposing- especially since I'm only using half of the main pocket space. It's quite the deceptive bag by holding things in ...

  14. GR1 26L vs GR2 26L : r/Goruck

    For me GR1 fits better but everyone's different. GR2 26L is the same overall height as GR1 21L just GR2 stick out a bit more coz of the front compartment. GR2 26L is Awesome man!! for travel 🔥👑 as the built in field pocket in the front compartment and all the pockets is just🤌. I edc A GR1 21L all day! safaridreaming.

  15. Goruck GR1 vs GR2: Which Is the Best Rucksack in 2024?

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  16. Bontrager GR1 Team Issue Gravel Tire

    The GR1 Team Issue gravel tire is designed for fast rolling performance and consistent traction on the roads less paved. It has proven success at the most demanding gravel races, and features Inner Strength Casing for lightweight puncture protection while maintaining a smooth, supple, fast feel. Plus, you can go tubeless for better performance ...

  17. GORUCK GR1 26L v 34L GR2

    One thing which is common knowledge about the 34L GR2 is that it is essentially (though slightly taller) a GR1 26L with an extra compartment added on — making it deeper. This is all true, and it makes the GR2 a much better bag for organization and better for travel amongst most people. This article came about, as I recently reread (I know ...

  18. GR1 vs GR2 : r/Goruck

    The extra pockets on the GR2 is awesome for me, as I'm currently in nursing school, so I'm lugging around my nursing essentials (Stethoscope, Pen Light, Shears, Textbooks, etc!) But I'm wondering if the GR1 is plenty! I do plan on doing some travelling abroad, so the extra space in the GR2 seems very appealing.

  19. GORUCK GR1 Review

    GR2. Like the GR1, the GR2 on the outside features a slant pocket and a 2X3 velcro to attach things. And it also features a Molle webbing system like the GR1. The only difference is the number of rows of webbing. While the GR1 had 3 rows, GR2 has 4 rows of molle webbing on the front and also on both sides as well. GORUCK GR1 vs GORUCK GR2 ...

  20. Bontrager GR1 Comp Gravel Tire

    Bontrager GR1 Comp Gravel Tire. 9 Reviews / Write a Review. $29.99. Model 580888. Retailer prices may vary. A fast-rolling gravel tire that offers consistent traction. Compare. Color / Black. Select a color.

  21. GR1 vs GR2 : r/onebag

    If you are tall, the GR2 can work as EDC, but the GR1 can hold a bunch of stuff and it will work for EDC. If you are really concerned with space, you can get a packable tote or something. If you want a good travel bag like a GR1/GR2, take a look at the Greenroom 136 rainmaker. It is overbuilt, but it is a bit easier to live with day to day.

  22. GORUCK GR1 vs GR2 Long Weekend Packing // Does 26L = 26L ...

    Hey guys! Wanted to pack-out for a four day trip, so I decided to compare my 26L options. Take a look if you are trying to decide between these two great op...