Argon 18 Dark Matter
BikeRide finds and shows you the best prices of the bikes you want to buy. Prices constantly change and it’s impossible to compare them all yourself.
We search for prices on over 120 bike retailers to guarantee that we find the lowest prices – to save you time and money.
It’s a promise we stand behind: If you find a lower price on a bike elsewhere, we will sell it to you for 10% less. For example, if you find a bike for $480 that we have listed at $500, we will offer you to buy it for $432 through BikeRide. The bike must be the same color and size, sold in the US and not include the use of a coupon.
If you find a lower price, email us at [email protected] with documentation of the price. We’re committed to making sure that the cost of a bike does not keep you from cycling!
Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Argon 18 Dark Matter. In summary, this is what cyclists think. Published Dec 05, 2025 by Nick Koleszar.
13 reasons to buy
- The Dark Matter is available in three builds: SRAM Force or Rival AXS and Shimano GRX mechanical.
- Experts relish the extremely comfortable ride and relaxed riding position, ideal for long days in the saddle.
- The Dark Matter’s speed and stability on descents, even over challenging terrain, impress testers.
- A tester savors how quickly this bike accelerates on fast road sections.
- Despite the Dark Matter’s capacity for bikepacking, it feels like an aggressive and nimble race bike, according to reviewers.
- With clearance for tires up to 57mm (2.25”), this is one of the few gravel bikes that can run MTB tires.
- The suspension-corrected geometry allows the use of a suspension fork.
- The Dark Matter has a plethora of mounts for bags, bottle cages, and fenders.
- The frame is compatible with a dropper post and 2x drivetrains.
- Reviewers and owners appreciate the internal storage in the down tube.
- A reviewer appreciates the FSA A-Wing Pro AGX handlebar's compliance over rough surfaces and stiffness when out of the saddle.
- A tester applauds the SRAM Rival XPLR AXS build’s powerful, easily modulated brakes, quick shifts, and lack of chain slap.
- The round 27.2mm seat tube supports aftermarket seatposts.
3 reasons not to buy
- The long chainstays and wheelbase required to clear 57mm tires reduce this bike’s agility and responsiveness compared to competitors with less tire clearance.
- A reviewer says the DT Swiss G1800 wheels (SRAM Rival, Shimano GRX builds) are a bit heavy and slow for gravel racing.
- Some riders may prefer the lower, more aggressive front end of racier gravel bikes.
Bottom line
Only the middle of the three builds, SRAM Rival XPLR AXS, is tested, but the frame is the star here. The Dark Matter performs well on technical climbs and descents, chunky gravel, and high-speed road sections, all in great comfort. Despite having room for 57mm tires, this bike isn’t much slower than ‘racier’ alternatives. The ability to run a suspension fork, MTB tires, and 1x or 2x drivetrains makes it one of the most flexible bikes around. Given the Argon 18 Dark Matter’s capacity for everything from gravel ultras to relaxed bikepacking, it could be the only bike some people need.Expert Reviews
87/100 based on 2 rated expert reviewsIs the New Argon 18 Dark Matter the Most Important Gravel Bike of 2025?
First Ride Review: Is Argon 18’s Dark Matter the Gravel Bike That Can Do It All?
Argon 18’s Dark Matter Packs Storage, Big Tires, and Simplicity. Why Isn’t Every Gravel Frame Like This?
Rankings
Best Gravel And Adventure Bikes
Bike Comparison
Forum Discussions
-
21 mins ago
-
1 hour ago