Spring gravel season in Western New York doesn’t just arrive — it hits fast. One week it’s trainers and layers, the next week it’s hero dirt, fast group rides, and sold-out gravel events across the Finger Lakes.
If you’re thinking about a new gravel bike for 2026, now is the time to build it — not when the first warm weekend creates a six-week waitlist.
At Rochester Bicycle, we specialize in helping riders get dialed before the season breaks. Whether you’re chasing podiums, finishing your first gravel event, or planning long adventure rides, a properly built gravel bike makes all the difference.
Why Build Your Gravel Bike Early?
Gravel riding in Rochester and the Finger Lakes is unique:
rolling farm roads, chunky descents, fast pavement connectors, and unpredictable spring conditions.
Building early means:
- No last-minute parts delays
- Time to dial fit, tires, and gear
- Confidence when event season kicks off
- A bike tailored to your terrain and goals
If you’re searching for “gravel bikes in Rochester NY” or “Finger Lakes gravel cycling”, this is exactly where preparation separates a good season from a great one.
2026 Finger Lakes & Western NY Gravel Events to Ride Toward
Spring motivation is easier when there’s a date on the calendar. These are some of the biggest local gravel events riders are already training for:
- Dansville Dangler — April 19, 2026
- Dirty Hector — May 24, 2026
- Keuka Lake Gravel Classic — June 7, 2026
- Blackfly Challenge — June 13, 2026
- Birdseye Brawler — June 14, 2026
- Northwind's Gravel Classic — July 11, 2026
- Cameron Crusher — October 4, 2026
These events reward control, and smart bike setup just as much as fitness.
The Allied Cycle Works Able is one of the most capable gravel bikes on the market today — and one of the few that truly bridges elite racing and real-world riding.
Why riders choose the Able:
- Massive tire clearance — up to 57mm, right where modern pro gravel is heading
- Designed for speed and control on rough courses
- Trusted by professional athletes racing events like Unbound Gravel and Big Sugar Gravel
- Fully custom-built from the ground up
With Allied, nothing is off-the-shelf:
- Custom paint colors
- Drivetrain choice
- Wheel and tire selection
- Stem length, bar width, drivetrain, fit
This is the bike for riders who want one perfect machine, built specifically for their body, terrain, and goals.
25% Off: Ibis Hakka MX — Race One Day, Adventure the Next:
Looking for a versatile gravel bike that can do everything?
The Ibis Hakka MX hits the sweet spot between race-ready performance and adventure gravel capability — and right now, it’s 25% off.
Why the Hakka MX is a favorite:
- Two build levels available Sram Apex, Sram Rival
- Slightly more relaxed, upright geometry
- Stable and confident on rough gravel
- Capable of gravel racing and bikepacking trips
If your spring includes:
- Local gravel races
- Long training rides
- Multi-day adventures
- Mixed-surface exploring
This bike does it all — without compromise.
Not Sure Which Gravel Bike Is Right for You?
That’s where we come in. At Rochester Bicycle, we offer personal gravel bike consultations:
- In-store, in person
- Or via Zoom, one-on-one
We’ll help you:
- Choose the right frame and geometry
- Match tires and wheels to Finger Lakes terrain
- Build a bike around your riding goals
- Get fully dialed before spring arrives
Book your gravel bike consultation today and start building now — before the season fills up.
Ready for Spring Starts Now
The best gravel seasons don’t happen by accident. They’re built — thoughtfully, early, and with the right support.
If you’re planning to ride gravel in Rochester or the Finger Lakes this spring, let’s make sure your bike is ready when the roads are.
See you on the gravel!
Premium Gravel Bike Dealers in New York State
Rochester Bicycle is a trusted gravel bike shop and authorized dealer for Allied Cycle works and Ibis Cycles, serving riders across New York State, including Rochester, the Finger Lakes, and Western New York.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gravel Bikes in New York
Where can I buy an Allied Cycle works gravel bike in New York State?
Rochester Bicycle is an authorized Allied Cycle works dealer located in Rochester, NY, serving riders throughout New York State and the Finger Lakes region.
Where can I buy an Ibis gravel bike in New York?
We are an authorized Ibis Cycles dealer offering models like the Ibis Hakka MX for gravel racing and adventure riding.
Do you offer custom gravel bike builds?
Yes. We offer fully custom gravel bike builds, including Allied Able custom configurations and expert setup on Ibis gravel bikes.
Do you work with riders outside Rochester?
Absolutely. We work with riders across New York State through in-store visits and virtual consultations via Zoom.