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FM336 vs FM326 vs FM316: Which Gravel Frame Is Right for You?
By a real rider – 2 months of honest experience
Let me start with the truth: I was skeptical. When I first stumbled upon PermeantsBikes’s FM336 carbon gravel frame online, the price seemed almost too good to be true. How could a full carbon frame with internal storage, T47 bottom bracket, and UDH hanger cost less than a mid-range aluminum frame from a big brand? After two months of riding, building, and testing, I’m ready to share my honest experience – including the good, the bad, and everything in between.
The $1,000 Question: Is Cheap Carbon Safe?
Before I even ordered, I spent weeks researching. The cycling forums are full of horror stories about exploding carbon frames from unknown manufacturers. But I learned to distinguish between open-mould frames (legitimate unbranded products) and dangerous counterfeits (fake logos, zero quality control). PermeantsBikes has been manufacturing carbon frames since 2007, and they provide independent ISO 4210 test reports – that gave me confidence.
The FM336 arrived in a solid box with thick foam inserts. First impression: the paint was flawless (I chose a custom RAL 5005 blue, glossy finish), and the carbon layup looked clean with no visible voids or unevenness. The frame weight (size M) came in at 1180g – exactly as advertised.
Building the Dream Machine: Component Choices
I paired the FM336 with a mix of mid-range and budget parts to keep total cost under $3,000. Here’s what I used:
- Groupset: Shimano GRX 810 1x (mechanical) – reliable and gravel-tuned
- Wheels: Hunt 35 Carbon Gravel Disc – a solid value carbon wheelset
- Tires: Panaracer GravelKing SK 700x43c – tubeless setup
- Cockpit: Zipp Service Course 70 XPLR alloy bar + stem
- Saddle: Fizik Terra Argo X5
The build was straightforward. The T47 threaded bottom bracket (I chose the 86.5mm version) installed without creaking – a refreshing change from press-fit BBs I’ve struggled with before. The internal cable routing was easier than expected thanks to pre-installed guide tubes. The UDH hanger is a nice future-proof touch, especially if I ever upgrade to SRAM Transmission.
First Ride Impressions: Stiff, Responsive, Surprisingly Comfortable
I took the FM336 on a 60km mixed-terrain loop: 40% pavement, 50% smooth gravel, 10% chunky fire road. The bike climbed exceptionally well – the bottom bracket stiffness felt comparable to my friend’s $4000 carbon race bike. Out of the saddle sprinting on pavement, there’s no noticeable flex.
On gravel, the compliance is real. The seatstays and fork are tuned to absorb chatter without feeling mushy. With 43mm tires at 30 psi, I was able to stay seated over washboard sections that would have rattled my aluminum bike. The geometry (head tube angle 71°, wheelbase 1030mm on size M) strikes a balance between stable descending and quick handling – not as twitchy as a pure road bike, but faster-feeling than many “adventure” gravel frames.
One surprise: the 0.8L downtube storage hatch is watertight and easy to open. I store a multi-tool, CO2 inflator, tire levers, a spare tube, and a snack – all secure with no rattling.
The Downsides (Honest)
- No instruction manual: You need some mechanical knowledge to build. The frame came with no assembly guide, though customer support answered my questions within 24 hours.
- Paint durability: After two months, there are a couple small chips from gravel spray. Fine for a rider’s bike, but if you want a showroom finish, consider extra clear coat protection.
- Brand recognition: At group rides, people ask “What brand is that?” – not a downside for me, but if you want instant status, stick with Specialized.
Final Verdict: Who Is the FM336 For?
Buy it if: You’re a value-conscious rider who enjoys building your own bike. You want modern standards (T47, UDH, internal storage) without paying $4000+. You prioritize performance over logos.
Skip it if: You want a complete bike ready to ride out of the box. You need a shop for every repair. You prefer the reassurance of a local bike shop warranty.
For me, the FM336 delivered exactly what I hoped: a lightweight, stiff, and comfortable gravel frame with modern features at a fraction of the big-brand price. With proper assembly and care, this frame has become my go-to for fast gravel rides and light bikepacking. If you’re on the fence, take the plunge – just do your homework and enjoy the build process.
Ready to build your own FM336? Check our road bike frames or explore our full gravel bike frame lineup for specs and pricing.
Journey Carbon Gravel Frame: Versatile Bike Choice
When it comes to biking on diverse terrains, a gravel bike is an adventurer’s best friend. The Journey Carbon Gravel Frame is a standout choice for those who crave versatility and performance. Designed for the rugged paths less traveled, this carbon gravel bike frame is engineered to deliver strength, lightweight agility, and a smooth ride. In this article, we explore the features, benefits, and reasons why the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame might just be your next biking companion.
A gravel bike frame is the backbone of a bike designed for riding on mixed terrain, from paved roads to dirt paths and rocky trails. Unlike traditional road bikes, gravel bikes are built to handle the unpredictability of off-road conditions. The geometry of a gravel frame typically offers a more relaxed riding position, which enhances comfort on long rides. Additionally, these frames often accommodate wider tires, offering better grip and stability.
Key Features of the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame
Lightweight and Durable
One of the most remarkable features of the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame is its material. Made from high-quality carbon fiber, this frame offers an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. Carbon fiber is known for being incredibly strong yet lightweight, making it ideal for a gravel bike frame that needs to withstand rough conditions without weighing you down.
Versatile Design
The Journey Carbon Gravel Frame is engineered for versatility. Whether you’re embarking on a long-distance tour or a quick ride through forest trails, this frame adapts effortlessly. It features a geometry that balances comfort and performance, ensuring a smooth ride regardless of the terrain.
Enhanced Stability and Control
Stability is key when navigating uneven surfaces, and the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame delivers. Its design allows for wider tires, which provide better traction and control. The frame’s geometry also contributes to a stable ride, allowing you to maintain confidence even on the most challenging paths.
Comfortable Riding Position
Long rides demand comfort, and this is where the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame shines. The relaxed geometry ensures that riders enjoy a more upright position, reducing strain on the back and shoulders. This design not only enhances comfort but also reduces fatigue, allowing you to ride longer and farther.
Why Choose a Carbon Gravel Bike Frame?
Superior Performance
Carbon gravel bike frames are renowned for their performance benefits. The material’s ability to absorb vibrations translates to a smoother ride, especially on rough terrain. This means less fatigue and more enjoyment on your adventures.
Durability
Durability is a critical factor when choosing a bike frame, and carbon fiber excels in this regard. The Journey Carbon Gravel Frame is designed to withstand the rigors of off-road biking, ensuring longevity and reliability. Its resistance to corrosion and the elements makes it a trustworthy companion in all weather conditions.
Aesthetic Appeal
Let’s not forget the visual appeal of a carbon gravel bike frame. The sleek and modern look of carbon fiber adds a touch of sophistication to your bike. The Journey Carbon Gravel Frame is not only about performance but also about making a statement on and off the trail.
Who Should Consider the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame?
Adventure Enthusiasts
If you love exploring new trails and challenging yourself with diverse terrains, the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame is an ideal choice. Its ability to adapt to different surfaces makes it perfect for adventure seekers who don’t want to be limited by their equipment.
Long-Distance Riders
For those who enjoy long rides, comfort is paramount. The ergonomic design of this frame ensures that you can spend hours in the saddle without discomfort. The smooth ride, coupled with the stability and control it offers, makes long-distance cycling a pleasure.
Fitness Riders
Fitness enthusiasts looking for a versatile bike that can handle both road and off-road conditions will find the Journey Carbon Gravel Frame appealing. Its lightweight nature and performance features make it suitable for a variety of fitness goals, from intense workouts to leisurely rides.
Final Thoughts on the Journey Frame
The Journey Carbon Gravel Frame represents the pinnacle of design and engineering in the world of gravel bikes. Its combination of lightweight agility, durability, and comfort makes it an outstanding choice for riders of all levels. Whether you’re an adventurer, a long-distance rider, or a fitness enthusiast, this carbon gravel bike frame offers the versatility and performance you need to conquer any path. Investing in this frame is more than just choosing a bike component – it’s about embracing a lifestyle of exploration and adventure.
FM336 vs FM326 vs FM316: Which PermeantsBikes Gravel Frame Is Right for You?
A complete buyer’s guide to three of PermeantsBikes’s most popular carbon gravel frames.
PermeantsBikes offers several carbon gravel frames, but the three most popular are the FM336, FM326, and FM316. Each has a distinct personality, optimized for different riding styles and terrain. In this guide, we’ll compare them head-to-head so you can decide which one belongs in your garage.
Quick Overview: What Each Model Is Best For
| Model | Best For | Key Feature | Rider Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| FM336 | Mixed terrain racing, fast gravel | 0.8L internal storage, progressive geometry | Speed-oriented, race-ready |
| FM326 | Expedition bikepacking, long-distance touring | 1.2L internal storage, multiple mounting points | Adventure rider, gear hauler |
| FM316 | All-day gravel, endurance, weekend overnights | 0.8L storage, aerodynamic design | Versatile, comfort-focused |
Detailed Spec Comparison
| Spec | FM336 | FM326 | FM316 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Weight (size M, painted) | ~1180g | ~1180g | ~1150g |
| Tire Clearance (700c) | 47mm (user-reported up to 50mm) | 50mm | 50mm |
| Internal Storage Volume | 0.8L | 1.2L | 0.8L |
| Mounting Points | 6 (incl. top tube, under downtube) | 8 (adds fork cage mounts) | 6 |
| Head Tube Angle (size M) | 71.0° | 71.5° | 71.0° |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 1030 | 1040 | 1030 |
| Chainstay Length (mm) | 425 | 430 | 425 |
| Bottom Bracket | T47 threaded | T47 threaded | T47 threaded |
| UDH Hanger | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best Use | Racing, mixed terrain, fast group rides | Multi-day bikepacking, heavy loads | Endurance, light bikepacking, all-road |
FM336: The Racer’s Choice
The FM336 is designed for riders who prioritize speed, stiffness, and race-ready handling. Its progressive geometry (71° head angle, 1030mm wheelbase, 425mm chainstays) strikes a balance between stable high-speed descending and quick accelerations. The 0.8L internal storage is just enough for a race-day toolkit, and the frame weight under 1200g keeps the bike lively on climbs. If you’re planning to race gravel or enjoy spirited group rides, the FM336 is your weapon.
Ideal for: Gravel racers, fast mixed-terrain riders, those who want a lightweight platform without sacrificing modern features.
FM326: The Expedition Workhorse
The FM326 is built for adventure. Its 1.2L internal storage is the largest in the lineup, capable of swallowing a full tool kit, rain jacket, and snacks. Eight mounting points (including triple-pack mounts on the fork legs) let you strap on cargo cages, extra water bottles, or anything else you need for multi-day trips. The slightly longer wheelbase (1040mm) and slacker head angle (71.5°) add stability when the bike is loaded. If you plan to live off your bike for a week, the FM326 is the obvious choice.
Ideal for: Bikepackers, self-supported tourers, riders who carry a lot of gear.
FM316: The All-Day Endurance Option
The FM316 splits the difference between the FM336 and FM326. It shares the same 0.8L storage as the FM336 but adds an aerodynamic profile that makes it faster on pavement sections. The geometry is slightly more relaxed than the FM336 (identical numbers, but with aero shaping), making it comfortable for long days in the saddle without feeling sluggish. Tire clearance of 50mm gives you flexibility for rough routes, and the 1150g weight is the lightest of the three. The FM316 is the ideal “one bike for everything” – from weekday commutes to overnight adventures.
Ideal for: Endurance riders, mixed-surface commuters, weekend bikepackers who don’t need maximum cargo capacity.
How to Decide: A Simple Flowchart
- Do you race or prioritize speed? → FM336
- Do you go on multi-day self-supported trips with lots of gear? → FM326
- Do you want one bike for everything – fast enough, comfortable enough, with some storage? → FM316
Common Questions
Can I upgrade internal storage on lower models?
No – internal storage is built into the frame. If you need more than 0.8L, choose the FM326.
Which frame is easiest to build?
All three use T47 threaded bottom brackets and internal routing guides, so assembly is similar. The FM326 has slightly more cable guides (for dynamo lighting options), but all are DIY-friendly.
Will the FM336 fit 50mm tires?
Officially cleared for 47mm, but many users report 700x50mm fits fine with proper rim width. If 50mm is a must, go with FM326 or FM316 (both officially support 50mm).
Are all three EN tested?
Yes – every PermeantsBikes frame, including these three, is independently tested to 1.3× ISO 4210 standards. Third-party reports are available on request.
Final Recommendation
There’s no wrong choice – each frame represents excellent value. Your decision should hinge on how you ride 80% of the time. If you’re still unsure, contact our team with your typical routes and gear needs, and we’ll help you pick the perfect match. Riders interested in a lightweight road setup might also want to explore the SA-01 aero carbon road bike frame for paved adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a gravel bike frame and a road bike frame?
A gravel bike frame features more relaxed geometry, wider tire clearance (typically 40–50mm), and additional mounting points compared to a road frame. Road frames prioritize aerodynamics and stiffness for narrow tires, while gravel frames balance comfort, stability, and versatility across mixed terrain. The wider bottom bracket shells on gravel frames also improve chainstay clearance for bigger rubber.
Is carbon fiber safe for gravel and off-road riding?
Yes. Modern carbon gravel frames are engineered to handle repeated impacts and vibration from rough terrain. Manufacturers like PermeantsBikes test their frames to ISO 4210 standards, which include fatigue and impact cycling far beyond normal riding loads. The key is buying from manufacturers that provide transparent test reports rather than unknown brands with no quality documentation.
How much does a complete gravel bike build cost with a carbon frame?
Expect to spend between $2,500 and $4,500 depending on component choices. A budget-conscious build using Shimano GRX 810 mechanical and alloy wheels can land around $2,800–$3,200. Upgrading to electronic shifting or carbon wheels pushes the total higher. The frame itself typically represents 25–35% of total build cost, making it one of the most impactful upgrades for ride quality.
What bottom bracket standard should I look for in a gravel frame?
T47 threaded bottom brackets are the current gold standard for gravel frames. They combine the wide shell stiffness benefits of press-fit systems with the creak-free reliability of threaded interfaces. Unlike BB86 or PF30 press-fit standards, T47 can be serviced with standard tools and rarely develops the creaking issues that plague press-fit designs after thousands of wet, gritty miles.
Can I use a gravel frame for road riding and commuting?
Absolutely. Many riders use a gravel frame as their primary bike for everything from daily commuting to weekend road rides. Simply swap to narrower road tires (28–32mm) and you get a comfortable, efficient road bike with a slightly more upright position. Models like the FM316 with aerodynamic shaping work especially well as all-road machines that transition seamlessly between pavement and dirt.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Gravel Frame?
Whether you’re chasing podium finishes on race day, loading up for a week-long bikepacking adventure, or looking for a single bike that handles everything from commuting to weekend gravel rides, the right frame makes all the difference. Browse our complete gravel bike frame collection to compare models, check sizing, and find the frame that matches your riding style. Have questions about fit or component compatibility? Reach out to our team – we’re riders too, and we’re here to help you build the bike you’ve been dreaming about.