The Boardman ADV 8.9 is an approachable, versatile gravel bike that balances calm road-and-trail manners with enough agility for more technical paths. BikeRadar’s 2025 review found it comfortable on tarmac and gravel, composed over ruts and tractor tracks, and useful beyond recreational rides thanks to its rack and mudguard fittings. Its compromises include noisy front shifting, a listed weight of 10.50kg, and gearing that the reviewer wanted to be taller on fast descents.
What the Boardman ADV 8.9 is like to ride
In BikeRadar’s review, the ADV 8.9 occupies a middle ground: relaxed and stable enough for everyday road and gravel riding, but not so sedate that it feels cumbersome on technical trails. Reviewer Warren Rossiter found its compact riding position comfortable without being excessively upright. The bike stayed composed on rough tracks, while its feel on more technical terrain was agile enough to make it enjoyable rather than intimidating.
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The 40mm tyres softened dips and bumps even in the review bike’s factory clincher setup. Rossiter also found the hydraulic brakes powerful and controllable. On the road, he could maintain a pace close to road-bike level, although he wanted a taller top gear on a couple of fast descents. Those are observations from one reviewer’s test, not a promise of how every rider, fit or setup will feel. Read BikeRadar’s 2025 Boardman ADV 8.9 review.
Who should consider the ADV 8.9?
It makes sense for a rider getting into gravel, or for someone who wants one bike for paved roads, gravel tracks, commuting and light touring. Multiple bottle positions, rack and mudguard mounts, and a comfortable riding position support that mixed-use role. It is better understood as an adaptable all-rounder than as a dedicated race bike or a machine intended for repeated hard riding on rough technical descents.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
For context, Rossiter described its character as less extreme than the all-terrain Focus Atlas and the particularly nimble Specialized Crux DSW. That comparison reflects the reviewer’s assessment, not a claim that the Boardman matches every rider’s preferences or terrain.
2025 review-bike specification and price
BikeRadar’s 2025 review listed the tested bike at £1,200 (also shown as €1,440) and 10.50kg. These are figures on that review page, not a current quote or a guarantee that every model year, size or market has the same build.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Part | Configuration listed by BikeRadar in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Frame | Triple-butted 6061 aluminium |
| Fork | C7 carbon |
| Controls and rear drivetrain | Shimano GRX RX400, 2×10 |
| Crankset | Prowheel, 30/46T |
| Cassette | 11–36 |
| Brakes | Shimano hydraulic disc |
| Wheels | Boardman tubeless-ready |
| Tyres | Goodyear Connector, 700 × 40mm, tubeless-ready |
| Tyre clearance | 50mm, as reported by BikeRadar |
| Listed weight | 10.50kg |
| Review-page price | £1,200 / €1,440 |
The main compromises
Front shifting can need attention
BikeRadar listed noisy 2x GRX operation and regular front-derailleur adjustment among its cons. During the ride, Rossiter noticed chain rub at the extremes of the cassette. Adjusting cable tension reduced the noise but did not remove it.
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The reviewer wanted more top-end gearing on a couple of fast, smooth descents. That is a specific trade-off he accepted for the bike’s broader gravel capability; it may matter more to riders who prioritize high-speed road riding.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
It is not especially light
The review bike’s listed 10.50kg weight is worth considering if low weight is a priority. The figure applies to BikeRadar’s listed test configuration, rather than every ADV 8.9 build.
Rough-gravel comfort depends on setup
A separate BikeRadar review from May 2022 reported noticeable handlebar chatter on rough gravel at the higher tyre pressures used in that test, despite a well-cushioned saddle. Its reviewer suggested a tubeless setup and lower pressures or cushioned bar tape as possible ways to improve comfort, and mentioned pricier comfort parts as another option. This is a setup-specific observation from the earlier review, not evidence of a universal fault on the 2025 bike. BikeRadar’s 2022 review.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Check the model year before comparing specifications
The name ADV 8.9 does not guarantee an identical build across years. Boardman’s official page describes the 2021 version with a 10-speed GRX build, 38mm Schwalbe G-One All Round tyres, hydraulic brakes and tubeless-ready wheels. BikeRadar’s 2025 test listing instead specifies a Prowheel crankset, 40mm Goodyear tyres and 50mm tyre clearance. Before buying, match the actual year and size to the seller’s specification, including drivetrain, tyres and clearance. Boardman’s 2021 ADV 8.9 product page.
Older prices are useful only as historical context. Road.cc listed the bike at £1,100 in its 2021 review, while BikeRadar’s May 2022 review listed £1,150. Neither figure establishes today’s price or availability. Road.cc’s 2021 review.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How it compares with the ADV 8.8
BikeRadar’s 2025 comparison identifies the ADV 8.8 as a close alternative: it says the two models share a frameset and wheels, while the 8.8 uses a Microshift Sword groupset. The review listed the 8.8 at £950 in that review context; treat that as a historical figure, not a live offer. Compare the actual bikes available to you on fit and geometry, gearing range, clearance, mounts, wheel and tyre specification, weight and current price—not the model number alone. BikeRadar’s review and comparison.
Is the Boardman ADV 8.9 worth buying?
The case for the ADV 8.9 is its balanced character: it is comfortable and steady for everyday road and gravel riding, responsive enough to stay engaging on trails, and equipped to support commuting or light touring. The case against it is equally practical: check that you are happy with its weight and top gearing, and inspect the front shifting on the exact bike you are considering. Above all, verify the model year and component list before judging a listing against review specifications.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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