Genesis Croix De Fer 60 brings electric assistance to a classic steel gravel bike
The Genesis Croix De Fer 60 is a new electric gravel bike that blends traditional frame craftsmanship with modern e-bike technology. Designed for riders who want help when it matters without losing the natural feel of a capable gravel machine, this model aims to deliver a sporty ride on mixed terrain, long-distance routes, and challenging climbs.
Unlike some electric bikes that feel heavily dependent on motor assistance, the Croix De Fer 60 is built to remain enjoyable even when the motor is not doing much of the work. The electric drive is there to support fast starts, reduce fatigue on steep gradients, and make longer rides more manageable, rather than completely taking over the experience.
At the heart of the bike is a Mahle X20 rear hub motor, offering up to 65 Nm of torque. This system is known for its smooth and subtle power delivery, which suits the character of a gravel bike well. Because the motor is built into the hub, the riding feel remains clean and efficient, with minimal extra resistance when pedaling without assistance.
One noticeable feature is the battery placement. Instead of being fully hidden inside the frame, the 171 Wh battery is mounted in the bottle cage area. This makes the bike easier to recognize as an e-bike, though the overall look still remains relatively understated. The battery capacity is modest compared with many electric bikes, but that fits the Croix De Fer 60’s purpose as a lightweight, performance-focused e-gravel bike rather than a long-range commuter or cargo machine.
The frame is one of the most interesting parts of the bike. Genesis uses Reynolds 725 steel tubing, giving the Croix De Fer 60 a more traditional and durable character compared with many modern carbon or aluminum gravel bikes. Steel is often praised for its ride comfort, strength, and timeless feel, making it a fitting choice for riders who value both performance and classic design.
To keep weight down and improve front-end responsiveness, the bike uses a carbon fork. This combination of a steel frame and carbon fork gives the Croix De Fer 60 a balanced setup: comfort and resilience from the frame, with sharper handling and reduced weight at the front.
For shifting, Genesis equips the bike with a 12-speed Shimano GRX RX820 drivetrain. Shimano’s GRX range is built specifically for gravel riding, offering reliable gear changes, stable chain control, and gearing suited to mixed surfaces. Whether tackling loose tracks, rolling country lanes, or steep off-road climbs, the drivetrain is designed to give riders the range and control they need.
The bike runs on Maxxis Rambler tires, a popular choice for gravel riding. These tires are designed to provide a balance between low rolling resistance on smoother surfaces and dependable grip when the trail gets rough. Their open side-knob pattern helps improve cornering confidence, especially on loose gravel, dirt paths, and uneven terrain.
At around 16 kilograms, the Genesis Croix De Fer 60 is relatively light for an electric gravel bike with a steel frame. It keeps a stripped-back setup typical of road and gravel bikes, meaning it does not come with a luggage rack, mudguards, built-in lights, or pedals. Riders can customize these parts based on how they plan to use the bike, whether for weekend gravel adventures, endurance rides, bikepacking, or fast all-road training.
The Genesis Croix De Fer 60 is priced at £4,500. For that price, it offers a distinctive package: a classic steel frame, modern gravel components, subtle electric support, and a ride concept focused on freedom rather than full-time motor dependency.
For riders looking for an electric gravel bike that still feels like a real bike first and an e-bike second, the Croix De Fer 60 could be an appealing option. It combines the charm of Reynolds steel with the convenience of a compact Mahle motor system, making it a strong choice for cyclists who want extra help on tough climbs without sacrificing the character of a traditional gravel ride.
