Why I Chose Suspension for Gravel

Author: Colleen Maher - Cane Creek Ambassador

Suspension on a Gravel Bike?

Is a gravel bike a drop bar mountain bike? Is it a monster road bike?

Maybe it’s both - or neither. Gravel is still evolving, and it’s exciting to see how racers and riders are experimenting to improve their bike and their ride.

Gravel riding is all about adaptability—one moment you're gliding over smooth dirt roads, the next you're navigating chunky rock gardens or washboard descents. Having the right equipment can make all the difference, and for me, the Cane Creek Invert gravel fork has been a game-changer.

On June 01, 2024, I knew I wanted to run a gravel suspension fork in 2025. I had just finished racing Unbound 200 and I was completely spent - a shell of a human being. The course wasn’t just long; it was brutally hot, with relentless sun and miles of rugged, minimally maintained roads. I love technical gravel in a race, but over 200 miles, that terrain takes a serious toll. I knew Unbound was too long and too rough to be on a fully rigid bike again. I wanted something more forgiving for when I returned.

My first ride on the Invert was in February 2025 in Pisgah National Forest and I was honestly amazed. My first impression? So many new lines opened up. I was absolutely ripping on the descents. I no longer had to avoid brake bumps or slow down for chattery washouts - I could ride right over them maintaining speed. The ride wasn’t just smoother; it was also faster. In a race, that means I don’t have to worry as much about picking out the smoothest line like I would on a rigid fork.

In my early-season races, I’m choosing to run it on a variety of course profiles. On courses with big climbs, I don’t feel like I’m giving anything up and I’m gaining a huge advantage on the downhills. Even on flatter courses, I’m still choosing the Invert because I want the increased comfort and durability.

Whether you're riding or racing, arm fatigue accumulates when you’re off-road. If you can minimize unnecessary fatigue, your body has more energy to put into each pedal stroke and more focus on the terrain ahead as well as what’s happening in the race. Whether you’re going for a podium, chasing a PR, or simply having a good time, having that extra energy makes a difference.