As with any type of cycling, staying hydrated is crucial, which is why having a reliable water bottle cage is essential.
A gravel bike water bottle cage is specifically designed to hold a water bottle securely while riding on rough terrain. These cages are typically made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different water bottle sizes.
When choosing a gravel bike water bottle cage, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, weight, and ease of use. You want a cage that can withstand the rigors of off-road riding and won’t add unnecessary weight to your bike. Additionally, you want a cage that is easy to access while riding, so you can stay hydrated without having to stop and dismount.
We’ve researched and tested several gravel bike water bottle cages to identify the ones that offer the best combination of durability, weight, and ease of use. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide a detailed analysis of each one.
Best Gravel Bike Water Bottle Cages
Are you looking for the best water bottle cages for your gravel bike? Look no further than our roundup of the top options on the market. We’ve researched and tested the most popular cages to bring you a list of the best options for your next adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, these cages will keep your water bottle secure and easily accessible on even the bumpiest of rides.
ThinkTop Ultra-Light Full Carbon Fiber Bicycle Bike Drink Water Bottle Cage Holder Brackets
If you’re looking for a bottle cage that is lightweight, stylish, and durable, the ThinkTop Ultra-Light Full Carbon Fiber Bicycle Bike Drink Water Bottle Cage Holder Brackets are worth considering.
Pros
- Made of full 3K Carbon Fiber, non-deformable, corrosion-resistant, and extra strong and durable
- Smooth edges that won’t hurt your hand or bottle
- Fits most standard-sized water bottles with adjustable oblong mounting holes
Cons
- Bottle too big or too small may not fit firmly
- Material may feel a bit fragile
- May not hold bottles as securely on extremely bumpy terrain
I recently tried these bottle cages on my gravel bike and was impressed with their performance. The cages are incredibly lightweight, making them ideal for long-distance rides where every ounce counts. The carbon fiber material is also very strong and durable, which is important for off-road riding where the bike may experience more bumps and jolts than on a smooth road.
The cages are easy to install and hold bottles securely in place. I did notice that on extremely rough terrain, the bottles may move around a bit more than with other cages I’ve used, but this was not a major issue. The adjustable oblong mounting holes make it easy to fit most standard-sized water bottles, and the smooth edges of the cages won’t scratch or damage your bottles.
Overall, I would recommend the ThinkTop Ultra-Light Full Carbon Fiber Bicycle Bike Drink Water Bottle Cage Holder Brackets to anyone looking for a lightweight, stylish, and durable bottle cage for their gravel bike.
Lezyne Flow Cage
If you’re looking for an affordable bottle cage for your gravel bike, the Lezyne Flow Cage is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The top entry design makes it easy to access your bottles, even in small or compact bike frames.
- The one-piece design is lightweight and optimized for bottle retention, striking a good balance between sturdiness and weight savings.
- The oval mounting holes allow for fine-tuning of the bottle cage position for better bottle fitment and ergonomics.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the cage can be a bit too tight, making it difficult to insert or remove bottles.
- The cage may not work as well with larger or oddly-shaped bottles.
- The lack of screws for frame mounting may be an issue for some users.
In my experience, the Lezyne Flow Cage is a solid choice for a gravel bike water bottle cage. The top entry design is definitely a plus, as it makes it easy to access your bottles even in small or compact bike frames. The one-piece design is also a nice touch, as it keeps the weight down while still providing good bottle retention.
That being said, some users have reported that the cage can be a bit too tight, which can make it difficult to insert or remove bottles. Additionally, the cage may not work as well with larger or oddly-shaped bottles. Finally, the lack of screws for frame mounting may be an issue for some users.
Overall, I would recommend the Lezyne Flow Cage for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable bottle cage for their gravel bike.
CNC Bike Water Bottle Holder
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable water bottle cage for your gravel bike, the CNC Bike Water Bottle Holder is a great option.
Pros
- The CNC composite material provides a secure and sturdy hold, even on bumpy trails
- The design is less likely to scratch the finish on most water bottles
- The cage is made of alloy-6061, making it both light and resilient for road or trail applications
Cons
- May not fit larger or oddly shaped water bottles
- Screws may not be compatible with all bike frames
- May not be the most aesthetically pleasing option for some cyclists
With its easy installation and lightweight design, the CNC Bike Water Bottle Holder is a great addition to any gravel bike setup. The composite material provides a secure hold on most standard and oversized water bottles, and the alloy construction ensures durability on even the roughest terrain.
One potential drawback is that the cage may not fit all water bottle sizes or shapes, so it’s important to double-check compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, some cyclists may find the design to be less visually appealing compared to other options on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable water bottle holder for your gravel bike, the CNC Bike Water Bottle Holder is a solid choice.
Suruid Bike Water Bottle Cage
If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight water bottle cage for your gravel bike, the Suruid Bike Water Bottle Cage might be worth considering.
Pros
- The water bottle cage is made of high-quality PC material, making it durable and lightweight.
- The arms of the cage wrap around the bottle for a secure and firm hold, ensuring that the bottle stays firmly in place when riding.
- The cage is quick and easy to install with the necessary mounting fittings included.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the cage is too tight for larger water bottles, so it may not be suitable for all riders.
- The plastic material may not be as durable as metal cages, so it may not hold up as well over time.
- The cage may not fit all bike frames, so it’s important to check the dimensions before purchasing.
In my experience, the Suruid Bike Water Bottle Cage is a decent option for those in need of a reliable and affordable water bottle cage. The cage is easy to install and holds the bottle securely, so you don’t have to worry about it falling out during your ride. However, the plastic material may not be as durable as metal cages, and the cage may not fit all bike frames. Overall, if you’re looking for a basic water bottle cage that gets the job done, the Suruid Bike Water Bottle Cage is worth considering.
LEZYNE Side Load Flow Bicycle Bottle Cage
If you’re looking for a high-strength, low-weight bottle cage with a great value, the LEZYNE Side Load Flow Bicycle Bottle Cage is a great option.
Pros
- The optimized side-load entry makes it easier to access your bottles in even the most compact road and mountain bike frames, and allows for larger bottles to be brought.
- Composite Matrix is a high-strength fiber reinforced material used for injection molded components, creating pro level cycling products at an affordable price.
- A balance between weight savings and strength, the Composite Matrix gives the Flow SL durability while only weighing in at 48 grams.
Cons
- The plastic material is too flexible, and the bottle does not sit flush with the cage.
- The cage does not grip the bottle well, and it slides out easily with a bump.
- The side loading is a great idea, but it is badly executed for long term hold.
The LEZYNE Side Load Flow Bicycle Bottle Cage is a durable and stylish bottle cage that is perfect for those who want to have quick access to their water bottle during their ride. It is lightweight and strong, and it is made of high-strength fiber reinforced material used for injection molded components.
The optimized side-load entry makes it easier to access your bottles in even the most compact road and mountain bike frames, and allows for larger bottles to be brought. The oval mounting holes allow fine tuning of the bottle cage position on your frame for better bottle fitment and ergonomics.
However, the plastic material is too flexible, and the bottle does not sit flush with the cage. The cage does not grip the bottle well, and it slides out easily with a bump. The side loading is a great idea, but it is badly executed for long term hold.
Overall, the LEZYNE Side Load Flow Bicycle Bottle Cage is a good choice for those who are looking for a reliable and stylish bottle cage for their bike. If you need a durable and lightweight bottle cage that is easy to access, this is a great option.
50 Strong Bike Water Bottle Holder and Bottle Combo
If you’re looking for a value-packed combo of a water bottle and holder for your bike, the 50 Strong Bike Water Bottle Holder and Bottle Combo is a great option.
Pros
- The 22 oz. squeeze bottles are BPA-free and easy to use, with a pull-top cap that opens easily.
- The accompanying bike water bottle holders are easy to install and fit most bicycle water bottles, giving you easy access to your drink while you ride.
- The lightweight, durable plastic design of the water bottle holder is easy to install and fits most standard-sized water bottles.
Cons
- The plastic material of the water bottle holder may not be as durable as other materials, and may crack or break over time.
- The bottles may not fit securely in the holder on bumpy terrain, which could result in spills or lost bottles.
- The bottles may not be completely leak-proof, which could result in spills or wet items in your bag.
The 50 Strong Bike Water Bottle Holder and Bottle Combo is a great value for cyclists of all skill levels. The 22 oz. squeeze bottles are BPA-free, top rack dishwasher safe, and have an easy open pull top cap. The accompanying bike water bottle holders are easy to install and fit most bicycle water bottles. The lightweight, durable plastic design of the water bottle holder is easy to install and fits most standard-sized water bottles.
While the plastic material of the water bottle holder may not be as durable as other materials, it is lightweight and easy to install. The bottles may not fit securely in the holder on bumpy terrain, which could result in spills or lost bottles. The bottles may also not be completely leak-proof, which could result in spills or wet items in your bag.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use water bottle and holder combo for your bike, the 50 Strong Bike Water Bottle Holder and Bottle Combo is a great option.
Alphatrail Bike Bottle Cage Max
If you want a bottle cage that is flexible enough to accommodate different bottle sizes and comes with a lifelong anti-break guarantee, then Alphatrail Bike Bottle Cage Max is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The high-quality bottle cage fits the standardized mounting points of all road, hybrid or mountain bike frames.
- The large side elements with bevels on the upper edge and a stable base keep even large filled bottles firmly in place, even in rough terrain.
- The composite plastic (FKV) is high-strength and yet flexible enough for different bottle sizes. The matt high-gloss finish harmonizes with current frame designs.
Cons
- The bottle cage may be a bit expensive compared to other similar products.
- The grey color may not match all bike frame designs.
- The bottle cage may not be compatible with all bottle types.
Alphatrail Bike Bottle Cage Max is a reliable and sturdy product that will keep your drinks safely to the bike and allow you to drink on the way without stopping. The innovative hybrid design of the cage makes it flexible and adaptable to different bottle sizes, and the large side elements with bevels on the upper edge and a stable base keep even large filled bottles firmly in place, even in rough terrain.
The bottle cage is made of high-strength composite plastic (FKV) and has a matt high-gloss finish that harmonizes with current frame designs. The cage is easy to install and fits the standardized mounting points of all road, hybrid or mountain bike frames.
In addition, Alphatrail offers a lifelong anti-break guarantee on their bottle cages. Should something ever break, they will replace it free of charge, and you can test it for 30 days. If it doesn’t fit 100%, you will get your money back.
Overall, Alphatrail Bike Bottle Cage Max is a great investment for anyone who wants a reliable bottle cage that can accommodate different bottle sizes and comes with a lifelong anti-break guarantee.
Active Adventure Bike Water Bottle Cage Set
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile water bottle cage for your bike, the Active Adventure Bike Water Bottle Cage Set might be just what you need.
Pros
- Easy to install and adjust with the included adapter and spacers
- Holds your water bottle securely, even on bumpy terrain
- Comes with a 20oz topographic water bottle that’s easy to drink from while riding
Cons
- The non-insulated water bottle may not keep your drink cold for very long in hot weather
- The cage may not fit some unusual bike frame designs
- The included spacers may not be sufficient for some bike handlebar or seat post diameters
This water bottle cage set is easy to install and adjust to fit your bike frame, thanks to the included adapter and spacers. Once installed, it holds your water bottle securely, even on bumpy terrain, so you don’t have to worry about losing your hydration during your ride. The unique square connection and vice-like clamp of the cage make it very stable and resistant to wobbling or rattling.
The included topographic water bottle is a nice touch, as it’s easy to drink from while riding and has a cool design. However, it’s not insulated, so it may not keep your drink cold for very long in hot weather. Also, the cage may not fit some unusual bike frame designs, so make sure to check the compatibility before buying. Finally, the included spacers may not be sufficient for some bike handlebar or seat post diameters, so you may need to buy additional ones separately.
Overall, the Active Adventure Bike Water Bottle Cage Set is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile water bottle cage for their bike. With its easy installation, secure hold, and included topographic water bottle, it’s a great value for the price.
PRO BIKE TOOL Bike Water Bottle Holder
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy water bottle cage for your gravel bike, the PRO BIKE TOOL Bike Water Bottle Holder is a great choice.
Pros
- Quick and easy to access your water bottle when you need it
- Secure and sturdy retention system keeps your bottle firmly in place
- Sleek and modern design looks great on any bike
Cons
- Not compatible with regular plastic bottles or metal insulated water bottles
- Requires threaded holes on the bike frame for installation
- May scratch plastic water bottles over time
This water bottle holder is made from nylon and glass fiber, making it both stiff and lightweight at only 46 grams. The top of the bottle cage features a unique ‘high collar’ design that improves stability and retention of water bottles. The cage fits most standard and oversized bike water bottles, including sizes 20, 21, 25, 24, 25, and 32 ounces (500, 550, 650, 750, and 950 ml).
Installation is quick and easy, taking less than 60 seconds to mount on your bike frame. The long oval mounting holes allow for fine-tuning of position on the frame, especially on e-bikes with large batteries. Two stainless steel bolts are included, but the bike frame requires threaded holes for installation.
Overall, the PRO BIKE TOOL Bike Water Bottle Holder is a great investment for any gravel bike rider looking for a reliable and stylish water bottle cage.
ROCKBROS Bicycle Water Bottle Holder
If you want a durable water bottle holder that fits most bike types, the ROCKBROS Bicycle Water Bottle Holder is a great choice.
Pros
- Made of high-strength aluminum alloy for durable performance
- Adjustable screws and fixed screws make it stable and easy to install
- Fits most types of bottles and bikes
Cons
- The material is a bit thin and easily bendable
- May not hold up on rockier trails
- The lightweight design may not be suitable for weight weenie bikes.
The ROCKBROS Bicycle Water Bottle Holder is made of high-strength aluminum alloy, which makes it durable and resistant to wear and corrosion. Its adjustable screw and fixed screw make it easy to install and stable, and it fits most types of bottles and bikes.
However, the material is a bit thin and easily bendable, which may not be suitable for rockier trails. Additionally, the lightweight design may not be ideal for weight weenie bikes.
Overall, if you’re looking for a water bottle holder that is durable, easy to install, and fits most types of bikes and bottles, the ROCKBROS Bicycle Water Bottle Holder is a good choice.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a gravel bike water bottle cage, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Material
The material of the water bottle cage is an important factor to consider. Most cages are made from either plastic or metal. Plastic cages are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as metal cages. Metal cages are more durable and can handle more wear and tear, but they are often heavier and more expensive.
Compatibility
Make sure the water bottle cage is compatible with your bike frame and water bottle. Some cages are designed to fit specific types of frames or bottles, so it’s important to double-check before making a purchase.
Weight
The weight of the water bottle cage can affect the overall weight of your bike. If you’re concerned about weight, look for a lightweight cage that won’t add too much extra weight to your bike.
Mounting
Water bottle cages can be mounted in a variety of ways, including on the frame, handlebars, or seat post. Consider where you want to mount the cage and make sure the cage you choose is compatible with that location.
Style
Water bottle cages come in a variety of styles and colors, so you can choose one that matches your bike’s aesthetic. Some cages even come with additional features like a built-in tool kit or a place to store snacks.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best gravel bike water bottle cage for your needs.