Given the importance of even the most minor details in professional road racing, a focus is placed on acquiring a correct equipment, in this case a road bike which will usually be faster, lighter and stiffer. However, in amateur races or events of lower rank, a gravel bike can still perform quite well with modifications such as a pairing of road tires with optimal gear ratios. These differences are marginal and usually stem from the physical preparation of the athlete as well as his goals for the event. For most informal cyclists and amateur competitions, gravel enthusiasts make an excellent compromise toward an optimal bicycle design.