The latest review of the Factor Aluto gravel bike highlights its sharp handling and overall agility, making it a strong contender for generalist riders. However, the bike falls short when it comes to modern tyre clearance, which may limit its versatility compared to competitors.
After testing the Aluto on various terrains, including long rides across mixed surfaces and challenging commutes, it becomes clear that while the bike boasts impressive performance, it lacks the adaptability that many cyclists seek in a gravel bike. The Aluto, unlike its predecessor, the Ostro Gravel, is more suited for those who prefer speed and responsiveness over technical prowess on rough trails.
Design and Features
At first glance, the Aluto appears to be a scaled-back version of the Ostro Gravel. Both models share identical chainstay lengths; however, the Aluto has a longer wheelbase due to a slightly slacker head angle of 0.3 degrees. This design choice, along with a 4mm lower bottom bracket, contributes to a more stable ride, especially on smoother surfaces.
The bike showcases a sleek aesthetic with slender tubes reminiscent of the Specialized Crux. The top tube design is influenced by the brand’s lightweight climbing bike, the O2, while the downtube incorporates storage options similar to the road-focused Monza. Despite enhancements for stability, the Aluto allows for a maximum tyre clearance of 45mm at the rear and up to 52mm at the front, although this configuration may slightly alter the bike’s handling characteristics.
A notable feature is the inclusion of a traditional round seat post, which facilitates easier adjustments and reduces slippage during rides. This setup also opens the door for using suspension seat posts or droppers. The drivetrain setup primarily uses SRAM Force XPLR, with options for Red or as a frameset, emphasizing speed with a 44t chainring.
Performance on Varied Terrain
The Factor Aluto excels on well-maintained gravel paths, offering a lively and responsive ride. The bike’s low weight of 8.9kg enhances its performance, particularly on smooth, fast gravel and twisty singletrack. The relatively short chainstays contribute to its snappy handling, making it feel akin to a road bike at high speeds.
The Aluto’s steep head angle of 72 degrees is designed for agility, but riders may find themselves over-geared on steep climbs due to the large chainring. While this gearing can lead to improved performance on descents and faster sections, it may not be ideal for bikepacking scenarios where varied terrain is expected.
Mounting options for tools and hydration are thoughtfully designed, with downtube bosses and the ability to carry additional gear. However, the downtube storage feature falls short, as it is too small for most tools and accessories, which could be a disappointment for some users.
The review emphasizes that while the Aluto is not the most progressive gravel bike on the market, its handling, weight, and design make it a compelling choice for riders who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Overall, the Factor Aluto is well-constructed and visually appealing, showcasing thoughtful geometry and design choices. It may not cater to those looking for extreme versatility, but for cyclists focused on performance on groomed gravel, it stands out as a top option.
