Repeatedly triumphant bike in Unbound Gravel events, yet acquiring this model poses a challenge for many.

Review of the Rose Backroads FF

, and ASMedia

2025 September 19 . 9:30 AM

2 min read

"Winning the Unbound Gravel event consecutively for two years, this bike has become a desired... — "Winning the Unbound Gravel event consecutively for two years, this bike has become a desired possession. However, securing one might prove challenging."

Repeatedly triumphant bike in Unbound Gravel events, yet acquiring this model poses a challenge for many.

The German bike company, Rose, has unveiled its latest masterpiece, the Backroads FF. This gravel bike has been turning heads and winning races since its debut, most notably at the Unbound Gravel race in 2024.

The Backroads FF is a testament to Rose's design prowess, with a size-specific magnetic frame bag that seamlessly integrates into the frame, providing a clean and functional storage solution. The bike's compact design offers tire clearance of up to 45mm, although fitting larger, knobby tires may be a squeeze due to the bike's aerodynamic profile.

The Backroads FF is built for speed, with a one-piece cockpit, D-shaped seatpost, and GC50 wheels specifically designed for Schwalbe's 40mm G-One RS tires. The bike's geometry, featuring a steep 76.25° seat tube angle, places the rider directly over the bottom bracket, maximizing power transfer and stability on steep climbs.

For those concerned about riding in rainy conditions, the Backroads FF comes with a water-repellent coating, ensuring a comfortable ride even in inclement weather. The bike also features well-thought-out magnetic Fidlock bag concept, frame guards on the down tube and chainstay, and is UDH compatible.

Aerodynamics play a significant role in the Backroads FF's design, with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) used for aerodynamic optimization. The bike tested features a 1x13 SRAM Force XPLR AXS groupset and weighs 7.8kg without pedals or frame bag.

The Backroads FF is available in five builds, including options for Shimano, SRAM, and Classified drivetrains. The bike's high-modulus carbon layup, with six different fiber stiffness classes, ensures a ride quality that is both responsive and comfortable.

The first ride on the Backroads FF revealed a quick and agile bike with a distinctly race-bred personality. However, its geometry may be challenging on technical terrain, as the forward-rotated position can make it difficult to maintain control in steep, rooty singletrack.

While the Backroads FF offers good value compared to similarly specced bikes from major manufacturers, its availability may be limited due to shipping issues. Additionally, some U.S.-based gravel racers are now favoring 2.2" tires, and the Backroads FF's limited tire clearance may make it less suitable for these events.

The Backroads FF comes specced with 40mm Schwalbe G-One RS Pro tires, which provide excellent performance but may not be suitable for all types of gravel riding, especially technical terrain.

In conclusion, the Backroads FF by Rose is a high-performance gravel bike that delivers speed, stability, and a race-bred personality. While it may have some limitations on technical terrain and with tire clearance, its unique design and winning race record make it a compelling choice for gravel enthusiasts. The bike is priced at €5,199 and is now available for purchase, although availability may be limited due to shipping issues.