Shafer

Gravel roads are calling.
Perfect Geometry Recipe for Optimal Stability and Handling

The Shafer is crafted for superior handling, stability, and efficiency.

The Shafer is crafted for superior handling, stability, and efficiency. Whether you're tackling gravel trails or riding the open road, the Shafer's 68.9-degree head tube provides stability, while the size-specific seat tube angle guarantees an optimal pedaling position for riders of all sizes.

Good News: We’re Compatible!

The Shafer is compatible with a wide range of components and options including UDH for easy service wherever you are. Shafer is also compatible with your favorite 1x and 2x drivetrains, including Transmission.

Comfort Over the Long Haul

Enjoy sustained comfort during extended rides with the Shafer's thoughtful design. The taller stack height enhances comfort, while shorter stems contribute to better handling. A threaded bottom bracket ensures easy service and maintenance, reflecting our commitment to convenience without compromising performance.

Keep It On The Down Low

The Shafer’s geometry allows it to maintain a low center of gravity for Take your gravel adventures to new heights with the Shafer's ability to run gravel dropper seatposts. The 77mm bottom bracket drop and an 80mm 'trail' across sizes ensure a low center of gravity, providing consistent steering and handling over a variety of roads, making every ride a joy.

Vertical Compliance and Comfort

Experience a smooth and comfortable ride with the Shafer's dropped seat stays and chainstays, enhancing vertical compliance. This innovative design prioritizes comfort, ensuring that your cycling experience is not only efficient but also enjoyable, especially during long journeys.

Light and Strong: Monoform™ Construction

The Shafer features Monoform™ Construction, a cutting-edge frame technology that creates carbon frames from a single mold, eliminating bonding between front and rear triangles. This advancement results in a lighter, stronger, and smoother ride

Features, Fit, and Finish

The Shafer pays attention to every detail of fit and finish. With up to 700x50c or 2.0" tire clearance, new additional bag and bottle mounting points, the ability to run 1x or 2x drivetrains, a 1.5”x 1.5” headset diameter for full internal cable routing options, and full fender and rack mounts (a total of 22), the Shafer is equipped for any adventure, whether you're bikepacking or commuting. As with all Ari bikes, rest easy with a Lifetime Warranty on the frame.

"Perhaps it’d be better to just put it this way: were we in the market for a gravel bike like this, either Mikey nor I would hesitate to own one of these ourselves, and you shouldn’t, either."
"Perhaps it’d be better to just put it this way: were we in the market for a gravel bike like this, either Mikey nor I would hesitate to own one of these ourselves, and you shouldn’t, either."
"The Shafer is a versatile drop-bar machine that can handle just about anything. Use it as a fully rigged bikepacking vehicle, winter training bike, or lightweight race-ready gravel grinder."
"Typically we get a few gravel bike introductions sent to us in press release format here at Riding Gravel every month. Not very many make the page here because, honestly, they are not all that interesting. The Fezzari Shafer being an exception here."
"The Shafer handled tight, fast turns with confidence, and I had no problem rolling roots, rocks, and even a few scary drops."
"Mounting points galore will accommodate whatever racks or fenders you want to adorn it with. Go out, go long, and tell great tales with the Shafer."
"If you are looking for a bike that can confidently take you on an adventure where a little less under-biking will increase the fun factor, you cannot go wrong with the Shafer."
"The new Ari Shafer has been updated to offer better handling, more bikepacking-friendly features, and bigger tire clearance."
"Ari’s newest bikes look to be just as, if not more up to date with the latest trends as most major manufacturers."

Customer Reviews

Based on 6 reviews
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K
Kurt
Shafer Gravel bike

This bike has gotten me off busy roads and on to amazing gravel rides out in the wilderness. Love it.

M
Micah Davis
Very solid gravel bike

I'm 6'2" and the large was definitely the right size. The geometry is just about perfect for all kinds of riding--dirt, tarmac, smoother singletrack, and even 4x4 jeep roads when I wanna beat myself up. It's slacker and longer than some of my buddies gravel bikes and while not quite as speedy on the uphill I can rip down way faster. The bike is incredibly stable at speed and when pushing into corners. The frame is STOUT. Very little frame flex or harsh feedback. The part spec for the money is a major selling point but the geometry and frame construction are really dialed. I only have two gripes. Frist, I wish the Fezzari carbon bars that come stock on the bike were wider (460-480) with a little bit more flare. The 440's feel too narrow for me when I'm venturing off the beaten path. Second, I don't really love the seat clamp. It looks clean but I'd prefer a standard collar style clamp. Overall, really impressed with how capable this bike is.

K
Kyle S
Capable mixed terrain gravel bike with few downsides

I've put about 250 miles on the X0 Transmission build with a PNW dropper post - a mix of pavement and easy singletrack. The bike is reasonably light, climbs well, is stable at speed, and handles easy singletrack well.

The build kit is a good value, although I have two nitpicks specific to off-road. 1) a cheaper, large range one-by would be nice. Microshift Advent X with an 11-48t cassette would do the trick. 2) I would appreciate 180mm rotors front and rear. The fork is drilled for 140mm rotors and has an adapter to bring it to the stock 160mm rotor.

The stock wheels (Fulcrum Rapid Red 900) were just okay, but the Hunt 35 Carbon Gravel X-Wide wheels I replaced them with are noticeably lighter, faster engaging, and more comfortable. I’ve tested low profile knobby tires measuring at 49.5mm on 25mm inner width rims, and the rear tire rubs when cornering. However, the fork clearance is okay for dry conditions.

H
Harrison
Almost Perfect

I'm really pleased with my Shafer Elite Rival AXS XPLR. Arrived with a bent derailleur hanger, which was taken care of right away. Bike is smooth and handing is predictable. It’s light and fit and finish is top notch, if not a little plain. The group set is absolutly brilliant. Shifting is smooth and fast. Couple of preferences, the Selle Italia X is pretty uncomfortable and I prefer bar tape with a little more cushion.

I went with the Shafer is because I'm a tough fit. I have short legs and a long torso with wide shoulders, I did a professional pre-fit, and there are only a handful of bikes that even come close to fitting. The 23-point fit could potentially save me $ in stuff I have to change. However, because of my tough sizing, some parts I needed to make the bike fit fell outside thier stock. Specifically, I needed a 17-degree stem to get my correct x/y, and 165mm crank arms for inseam. The only part I saved $ on was the wider bars needed.

A
Andy
Best bike I’ve owned.

I bought this bike about a month ago and it’s been awesome. Ridden all over Utah and the PNW already and it handles any gnar that I’ve thrown at it.

Shafer Trail

38°28'17.4"N 109°48'41.3"W

Save up to 40% Buying Direct
Bigger savings and perfect fit.

We sell directly to you, the rider. This gives you unique advantages like getting your Shafer custom fit to your body measurements, big savings on cost, and direct communication with us.

Lifetime Warranty
A warranty that lasts a lifetime.

We tested the Shafer 130% above industry standards. We want you to ride with the peace of mind knowing that this bike performs at an elite level, always. Your bike comes backed with a Lifetime Warranty. Ride it on your own trials for 30 days and if it’s not the best bike you’ve ridden, you can return it.

Geometry

Units

XS S M L XL
a Top Tube 515.4 532.4 559.3 579.0 594.4
b Seat Tube 410 440 470 492 520
c Chainstay 430 430 430 430 430
d Head Angle 68.9° 68.9° 68.9° 68.9° 68.9°
e Seat Angle (Effective)* 75.5° 75.2° 74.0° 73.5° 73.1°
f Head Tube 93.7 125.8 158.0 178.0 206.1
g Bottom Bracket Height 284 284 284 284 284
h Bottom Bracket Drop 77 77 77 77 77
i Wheelbase 1032 1047 1064 1079 1090
j Fork Offset 50 50 50 50 50
k Fork Axle to Crown 400 400 400 400 400
l Trail 80 80 80 80 80
m Standover Height 699 730 760 788 808
n Stack 526.0 555.7 585.4 604.7 631.0
o Reach 379.0 385.7 391.5 400.0 401.5
Geometry
What’s my frame size?

Your height will determine a general recommended frame size. Occasionally, based on other body measurements, you may feel more comfortable on a different size. We recommend completing the 23-Point Custom Setup when completing your order.

Recommend a frame size for me

Build Specs

Each Ari bike is built with the best components in a given category so you get the most bang for the buck. Each model has different build specs to choose from usually ranging in good, better, best order.

Comparison Table
Build Level
Specifications

build

Comp

price

$2,499.00

$2,599.00

frame

Ari Shafer Gravel Frameset - MonoForm™ CleanCast™ Carbon, 12x142 rear 12x100 front thru axles. UDH derailleur hanger. Max tire clearance 50c.

fork

Ari Racing Design Gravel Disc, 12mm thru-axle, Carbon fiber design with Road-Damping Technology, Full carbon construction, carbon tapered steerer tube, 50c tire clearance, 50mm offset, 1 1/8-1.5 taper, internal routing

rear shock

N/A

drivetrain

SRAM Apex 1x12 Hydraulic

wheels

Fulcrum Rapid Red 900, Tubeless Ready, (Carbon wheels upgrade available at checkout)

brakes

SRAM Apex, hydraulic disc, SRAM Centerline 160mm Rotors

sizes

XS,S,M,L,XL

headset

FSA SRS 1.5

shifters

SRAM Apex 1x12

front derailleur

N/A

rear derailleur

SRAM Apex 1x12

cassette

SRAM PG-1210, 11-50T

crank

SRAM Apex, GXP, 1x12, Alloy

chainrings

SRAM X-sync Alloy 42T

bottom bracket

SRAM Dub English BSA

chain

SRAM Apex, 12-spd

handlebars

Ari Gravel Alloy. 31.8 diameter, 70mm reach, 120mm drop, 18-degree flare

stem

Ari 3D forged 31.8mm alloy, 7 degree, 4-bolt bar clamp (customized sizing through Ari Custom Setup)

tape/grips

Ari Super-Shock Pro w/ Anti-Slip, Black

saddle

Selle Italia X3 Boost

seatpost

Ari Carbon Dual Bolt, 27.2

pedals

Available Separately

rims

Fulcrum Rapid Red 900, Tubeless Ready

hubs

Fulcrum Aluminum

spokes

Rounded, J-Pull

tires

Maxxis Rambler 45c, Tan Wall, EXO, Tubeless Ready

tubes

700x45 Presta Valve (Tubeless setup available at Checkout)

*Specs are subject to change. Any substitutions will be comparable or better.

Spec Comparison

Common Questions*

Do you offer financing?

Yes, at checkout there are several options available for financing.

Who is this bike for?

Shafer cyclists appreciate versatility in cycling, combining the love for both on-road efficiency and off-road adventure. This cyclist seeks the freedom to explore less-traveled paths, such as gravel roads, forest tracks, and light trails, without being limited by the capabilities of a traditional road bike.

How long will it take to arrive?

Estimated lead times are listed under each model's size in the bike builder. Times may vary a little based on current conditions, frame size, color, and availability.

Can the Shafer run a suspension fork?

Suspension gravel forks such as the Rockshox Rudy, 32AX, MRP Baxter or Suntour GVX, can be installed on the Shafer frame. You can add it during checkout on our website. If you choose to get one on your own later, we recommend running the longer fork offset option (as close to 50mm as possible).

What is the bottom bracket frame spec?

68mm English thread. Our philosophy is simple: if the bike is intended to be ridden in the dirt, it gets a threaded bottom bracket. Threaded bottom brackets are easier to service.

What are the dimensions of the front hub and fork axle?

The front hub is 100mm x 12mm. The axle dimensions are M12 x 120mm long x 14mm thread length x 1.50mm thread pitch.

Can the Shafer run an internal dropper post?

The Shafer can use an internal dropper post with a diameter of 27.2mm. The Shafer AL can not run a dropper.

What testing was done on the Shafer? Will it hold up to the demands of gravel and off road riding?

The Shafer was machined-tested to cross country mountain bike standards. We also added additional tests, like a rear impact test, to be sure the frame exceeds expectations in durability. Many different frames and frame sizes were also test ridden thousands of miles in all types of conditions. In ride testing the Shafer saw podium finishes in gravel races across the US, and thousands of miles of bikepacking across Iceland in rain, sand, and mud. You can ride confidently on the Shafer knowing it is backed by our Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What is the biggest tire size the Shafer can accommodate?

700x50c is the max recommended tire size. When equipped with a front derailleur, the max recommended tire size is 700x45.

What are the headset dimensions?

The Standardized Headset Identification System (SHIS) is IS56 / 28.6 | IS56 / 40(45°). This is used with the 1.5”/1.5” headtube. We have chosen to use the FSA SRS headsets for simple, clean cable management. FSA ACR is also compatible if the matching stem is also used.

What are the dimensions of the rear hub and rear axle?

The rear hub is 142mm x 12mm. The axle dimensions are M12 x 173mm long x 15mm thread length x 1.75mm thread pitch.

How are the cables routed?

All cables are routed through the headset. We have chosen to use the FSA SRS headsets for simple, clean cable management. This also helps keep the cables out of the way if you install a handlebar bag.

What is the frame weight of the Shafer?

The Shafer frame weighs 1160g including the derailleur hanger, seat post clamp, and full color paint. The Shafer is tested to XC mountain bike safety standards to be sure it can hold up to the toughest riding conditions.

How many water bottles can the Shafer hold?

Sizes Medium, Large, and XL can fit 3 bottles inside the front triangle, along with additional mounts on the top tube, underside of the down tube, and fork legs. Sizes XS and Small can hold two bottles in the front triangle along with an additional mount for tools or a bag requiring 64mm bolt spacing. Simply put, if there was an Olympic event for gear and hydration carrying options on a gravel frame, the Shafer would take the gold medal.

What about service?

You can work directly with us, one of our recommended shops, or work through your local shop.

What is the guarantee?

How will it arrive?

All Ari bikes go through our Custom Setup process, making sure the bike is fit and tuned specifically to you. They are test-ridden before delivery. If your bike is shipped to you, it’s still tuned and ready to ride and requires just a few minutes of assembly.

What is the warranty?

Each frame comes with a Lifetime Warranty. Ari branded frames come with a transferable warranty as well.

How does transferable warranty on Ari bikes work?

Ari branded frames come with a transferable frame warranty available to the second owner. The second owner can receive a one-year frame warranty from the date they purchase the bike from the original owner. Warranty only transfers once. All Ari bikes must have the transfer documented from the original owner to the new owner here in order to qualify for a transferable warranty.