What are the XTL levers for?

They are extra brake levers mounted left and right of the stem so you can brake while your hands are on the bar tops or hoods. Owners find them useful in traffic and when stopping with one leg off the bike.

What is the biggest tire it fits?

The frame clears tires up to 700x40c, which covers most gravel and mixed-surface riding.

Is it good for beginners?

Yes. The semi-upright endurance geometry is comfortable, the Shimano drivetrain is straightforward, and it ships with pedals and a kickstand.

How does it compare with a Trek or Giant gravel bike?

It offers similar aluminum-frame gravel features for far less, though it uses side-pull caliper brakes and a 14-speed drivetrain rather than the disc brakes and wider gearing common on those rivals.

Can I mount bags and bottles?

Yes. The frame has top-tube bento box braze-ons, fork trifecta mounts and bottle cage bosses for bikepacking gear.

What comes in the box?

The bike with XTL levers mounted, plus pedals with 9/16 boron steel axles and a kickstand.

Where is the Motobecane Gravel X1 XTL cheapest?

At Bikesdirect.com, for $499.00, 58% off, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Motobecane Gravel X1 XTL?

Buyers like: XTL levers handy on the bar top in traffic and hazardous situations; Glad the XTL levers came with the bike; Brakes at your fingertips no matter where your hands are.

Motobecane Gravel X1 XTL Price History: 58% Off at Bikesdirect.com

What reviewers say

Owners describe the Gravel X1 XTL as real performance at an exceptional value, often saying it costs up to half of comparable Trek or Giant gravel bikes. The XTL levers draw the most praise for braking control in traffic and awkward stops.

What people mention

XTL leversPraisedOwners say the stem-mounted levers make braking quicker and easier from the bar tops.
Braking controlPraisedRiders like having brakes at their fingertips regardless of hand position, including one-legged stops.
ValuePraisedBuyers call it real performance and exceptional value against similar Trek or Giant gravel bikes.
Brake typeMixedThe side-pull caliper setup draws concern about stopping consistency in wet or muddy conditions.
GearingMixedThe 14-speed Shimano drivetrain is genuine but gives a narrower range than many gravel riders want.

From Bikesdirect.com

Light/strong 6061 aluminum frame with semi-upright endurance gravel geometry
XTL brake levers mounted left and right of stem for easier, quicker braking
Wide tires fit up to 700x40c
Genuine Shimano 14-speed drivetrain with Shimano cranks
Disc brakes for sure stopping in nearly any weather
Custom top-tube bento box braze-ons, fork trifecta mounts and bottle cage bosses

Sizes: 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 61cm
Materials: 6061 aluminum frame; steel fork; aluminum handlebar, stem and seatpost; alloy rims
Fit: Semi-upright endurance gravel geometry; semi-compact frame
Sizing: Between sizes? Size down for more crotch clearance. 49cm fits most cyclists 5'1" to 5'4"; 52cm 5'4" to 5'7"; 54cm 5'7" to 5'9"; 56cm 5'9" to 6'; 58cm 6' to 6'2"
Guarantee: 30 Day Money-Back Guarantee
Returns: 30 Day Money-Back Guarantee
Shipping: Fast FREE Delivery in 48 USA; signature required; AK/PR/HI additional cost; contact for PO Box/APO/FPO options and costs; electric bikes can't ship to AK/PR/HI/
In the box: Bike, XTL levers mounted left and right of stem, FREE pedals 9/16 boron steel axles, FREE kickstand