Ibai Fradeja's Monster Gravel Project

Where does a adventure begin? Of course, with the planning.

More often than not, we see that the thought process of those about to embark on a journey into the unknown begins with one not-so-simple question: What bike will I choose for this adventure?

Ibai Fradejas' latest project started with a different approach.

Instead, the Orbea rider mapped out a top-secret location in his mind, picturing 2,000 metre-plus gravel mountain passes in an undisclosed Spanish national park. Once he’d settled on the adventure, he began building a bike specifically for the conditions, because compromise simply isn't in his lexicon.

“The route would be too rough for a gravel bike due to the switchbacks and rocks, but easily within the technical comfort zone of a mountain bike, so this unique adventure would require a unique bike.” Ibai Fradejas

Does it make sense or is it crazy—does it even have to make sense? What is for certain is that Ibai seized the ultimate opportunity to create something out of the ordinary, combining the very best of a mountain bike and a gravel bike.

Introducing Ibai's monster gravel bike, built on a rigid Alma mountain carbon frame, 29” Orbea with drop bar, 2,4” wide white ONZA Porcupine tires and equipped with a mix of Shimano XTR-GRX drivetrain and brake components.

Adventure cycling has to be fun - and this bike brings it.

“It won't be the fastest bike I've ever ridden,” Ibai admits, “but for the purpose it was created for, it excels.

Since completing the build, Ibai has successfully competed in Grinduro and definitely had one of the most talked about bikes at the event!