Kabon #KARB0017-US Gravel Bike Review
Our verdict
The Kabon KARB0017-US is a genuinely light carbon gravel bike at 8.7 lb, with disc brakes and drop bar controls sized for taller riders at 56cm. Priced at $1,299, it is a strong option for intermediate cyclists who want to cover mixed terrain without hauling a heavy frame.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Intermediate gravel cyclists who want a lightweight carbon frame in a 56cm size and need reliable disc brakes for mixed-surface riding.
Skip if
You are a beginner, need a bike under 56cm, or want a saddle with more durability than vinyl.
- Bike type Gravel Bike
- Wheel size 700.0 in
- Frame material Carbon Fiber
- Frame size 56Cm
- Speeds 18
- Brakes Disc
- Speeds of 18 - lower than 75% of the 22 models we track
- Weight of 8.7 lb - lighter than 71% of the 22 models we track
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.4/5
4.4 average across 14 owner ratings
-
Popularity2.3/5
14 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other mountain, road, electric, cruiser, folding, hybrid and kids' bicycles we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['The KARB0017-US is built on a carbon fiber frame in a 56cm size, which suits riders on the taller side of average. At 8.7 lb, the frame is genuinely light for a gravel bike in this price range, and the rigid suspension setup keeps handling predictable on packed dirt and pavement alike.', 'An 18-speed drivetrain with derailleur and drop bar shifters gives enough gear range for climbs and fast flat sections. Disc brakes handle stopping on surfaces where rim brakes can lose grip, and the 700c aluminum wheels are a practical, durable choice. The vinyl saddle is functional but may be one of the first parts riders swap out.', 'At $1,299 the KARB0017-US competes in a range where carbon gravel bikes are not common outside of brand-name labels. The chameleon blue color option is a standout visual choice. With 14 reviews and a 4.4 rating, buyer feedback is modest but positive.']
Pros
- 8.7 lb carbon frame is impressively light for the price
- Disc brakes deliver confident stopping on gravel and wet roads
- 18-speed drop bar drivetrain covers a wide range of terrain
- 56cm size is well suited for taller adult riders
- 700c wheels are a versatile, standard size
Cons
- Vinyl saddle is a lower-grade material at a $1,299 price point
- Only 14 reviews limits confidence in long-term reliability data
- No max rider weight listed, making fit planning harder
- Drivetrain brand is not specified
Specifications
| Bike type | Gravel Bike |
|---|---|
| Wheel size | 700.0 in |
| Frame material | Carbon Fiber |
| Frame size | 56Cm |
| Speeds | 18 |
| Brakes | Disc |
| Suspension | Rigid |
| Drivetrain | Derailleur |
| Shifters | Drop Bar |
| Wheel material | Aluminum |
| Seat | Vinyl |
| Color | Chameleon Blue |
| Weight | 8.7 lb |
| Age range | Adult |
| Skill level | Intermediate |
| Power | Pedal Force |
| Model year | 2021 |
Performance notes
The 8.7 lb carbon frame with rigid suspension and disc brakes positions this bike for fast gravel and mixed-surface use. The 700c wheel size is standard for gravel riding and supports a wide tire range. Drop bar shifters and 18 speeds allow confident gear management on climbs and descents.
What buyers say
Fourteen reviews with a 4.4 average rating suggest early buyers are generally satisfied. The sample is small enough that the score could shift with more reviews, but the current signal is positive.
Similar mountain, road, electric, cruiser, folding, hybrid and kids' bicycles to consider
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kabon KARB0017-US a true gravel bike or a road bike sold as gravel?
The listing classifies it as a gravel bike with a 700c wheel size, rigid carbon frame, disc brakes, and drop bar controls. These are all standard gravel bike features, and the setup is appropriate for mixed terrain including packed dirt and light off-road sections.
How does the 8.7 lb weight compare to other bikes in this price range?
8.7 lb is quite light for a carbon gravel bike at $1,299. Many bikes in this segment weigh 18 to 22 lb or more. If the weight figure is accurate and refers to the complete bike, it is an exceptional spec. Confirm the weight definition with the seller before purchasing.
What size rider fits this bike?
The frame is 56cm, which generally suits riders in the roughly 5'9" to 6'1" height range, though exact fit depends on inseam and torso length. No minimum height is listed, so consulting a size chart from the seller before ordering is a good idea.