Allroad

Allroad is a term used to describe equipment and vehicles designed to perform on mixed road surfaces, combining on-road performance with light off-road capability. It is used across automotive, cycling, and tire industries and is largely a marketing descriptor rather than a formal technical category.

In automotive use, allroad is most recognized in the Audi A6 allroad quattro, a raised wagon variant that combines permanent quattro all-wheel drive with increased ride height and underbody protection, designed for on-road comfort with light off-road capability. Other manufacturers have offered similar allroad-styled models, emphasizing versatility for paved roads and occasional off-pavement use.

In cycling, allroad refers to bicycles intended for riding on asphalt, gravel, dirt, and other mixed surfaces. These bikes, often called gravel bikes, typically feature wider tires, robust disc brakes, and a geometry between traditional road bikes and mountain bikes to handle rough surfaces while remaining efficient on pavement.

In tires and wheels, allroad tires are designed with intermediate tread patterns and larger air volume than pure road tires. They aim to provide grip on wet roads and loose surfaces while maintaining road-legal speeds and comfort; they are marketed for riders who encounter a variety of surfaces in a single ride.

There is no universal standard for what constitutes allroad, and the exact capabilities vary by model and brand. The term serves as a general guide to versatility rather than a precise specification.