Pearson On&On Race: Aero Gravel for the Competitive Edge
Gravel racing has entered a new era, one defined not just by adventure but by performance. The Pearson On&On Race is a purpose-built machine for riders who want to go fast. It’s a bike that reflects the sport’s evolution into gravel races and flighty ultra-distance events.
Engineering for Speed and Control
At the heart of the On&On Race is a T1000 carbon chassis, selected for its exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio. This high-modulus carbon allows Pearson to shape the frame with aero-optimised tube profiles, including a deep-section seatpost and narrow frontal area, without compromising structural integrity. The result is a frame that cuts through wind while remaining stable on loose surfaces.
The bike is race-focused: a lean to more slammed front ends for more aggressive positioning, a longer reach for stability at speed, and a steep head angle for precise handling. Yet it retains enough compliance and tyre clearance, up to 45mm, to tackle mixed terrain with confidence.
Componentry That Matches Ambition
Pearson’s build options reflect the bike’s competitive intent. Riders can choose between fully wireless SRAM or Shimano electronic groupsets, ensuring clean cable-free aesthetics and rapid shifting under load. The ERE Research GA40 Aero Gravel wheelset pairs deep 40mm section rims with wide 26mm internal widths, optimised for 40mm tyres like the Vittoria T50, which balance low rolling resistance with off-road grip.
Further performance gains come from CeramicSpeed T47 bottom brackets and SLT headsets, fitted as standard, reducing friction and increasing durability, especially important for riders training and racing in wet, gritty conditions.
Minimalist by Design, Practical by Nature
Unlike traditional gravel bikes designed for bikepacking, the On&On Race takes a minimalist approach. Mounting points are reduced, prioritising weight savings and aerodynamic cleanliness. However, it retains key features for endurance events: dual bottle mounts (including aero-positioning), a flattened top tube for easy shouldering, and robust tyre clearance for long-distance comfort.
This balance makes the On&On Race ideal for events like Gravel Earth Series, Unbound Gravel, or Grinduro, where speed and endurance intersect.
Versatility Beyond the Race Tape
While the On&On Race is unapologetically built for competition, its versatility shouldn’t be underestimated. The UDH-standard dropout ensures drivetrain compatibility and future-proofing, while the frame’s compliance and tyre clearance make it suitable for fast-paced winter training, gravel fondos, or even stripped-back bikepacking with a frame bag and saddle roll.
For riders who want one bike to cover fast road, gravel racing, and light adventure, the On&On Race offers a compelling solution, especially when paired with a second wheelset.
The Future of Gravel Racing: Inclusive, Competitive, Evolving
Gravel racing is no longer a fringe discipline, it’s a global phenomenon. Events are growing in scale and professionalism, with equal prize money and race distances for men and women becoming the norm. Brands like Pearson are responding with bikes that suit a wider range of riders, and the On&On Race is a prime example.
Its geometry and sizing accommodate a broad spectrum of body types, and its lightweight build (just 7.88kg complete) makes it especially appealing to female racers seeking performance without compromise. As more women enter gravel racing, from grassroots events to elite competition, the demand for race-ready, fit-appropriate bikes will only increase.
We expect to see gravel racing continue to diversify, with more mixed-gender teams, inclusive event formats, and equipment tailored to individual physiology rather than generic categories. The On&On Race is already ahead of that curve.
Contact us to arrange a bike fit sizing, and start your build today.