Our eager reporters got the lowdown on the new gravel bike from brand Forme on a recent visit to the distributor. The versatile carbon framed bike forms part of the 'Grit' series and looks like a well thought out machine for a variety of disciplines. 

• See our Buyer's Guide to gravel bikes
• We take a first ride on the All City Cycles Space Horse

 
Hailing from the Peak District, Forme has a range of riding available straight from their headquarters, anything from a grovelling climb, an epic descent, a state of the art velodrome or vibrant commutes to work. The part of the world they live in has obviously been inspirational to their unique range of cycles that they say have been developed by riders for riders in all disciplines and styles.

The latest addition to the range, the Monsal, steps into the 'Grit Series'. This is a carbon framed, gravel munching machine. Forme say the Monsal is the perfect bike for many different cyclists; gravel bike, road winter bike, epic weekender machine - this bike can adapt itself to all three rider types with no limits to the adventure.  

The Monsal is manufactured using Torayca 700 & 800 carbon, with the frame featuring 12mm thru axles, full integrated cabling, and a shortened dropped chainstay at the rear. This enables us to keep the ride nimble and responsive whilst also accommodating a 700x35c Kenda Flintridge tyre. The clearance is suitable for a 650b x 2.1” or up to 700x45C wheel and tyre combination.

The bike also features removable seat stay bridges with attachment points for mudguards if needed. The bike will be available in two specs, at two price points and in two colours. The Monsal 1 at £3,000 which is kitted out largely with SRAM Force kit and American Classic wheels. The cheaper bike is the Monsal 2 at £2,600 which will be adorned with SRAM Rival gear and the same Americal Classic TCX wheelset.

Forme Monsal Geometry

These bikes look to have a great spec and the looks to boot for the money. Forme say the new website with further details of the bikes is to be launched soon - we will be waiting with baited breath and will let you know more detail when we have them. In the meantime keep an eye on the current website and their Facebook page for more details and spy shots.