The Argon 18 Dark Matter has always had a focus on adventure. This light and lean gravel bike is just as capable and rugged as it is fast. The new Dark Matter is more equipped for going off the beaten path than ever before. With four bottle mounts, a rear rack mount, and a top tube mount, you can load your bike up with full bikepacking gear. These mounts are discreet so staying light and nimble is also an option on shorter rides. In fact, the Dark Matter is so responsive and quick that it is a great choice for gravel racers as well. No matter how you like to ride, the Argon 18 Dark Matter will accommodate your adventure.
Made of monocoque carbon fiber, the frame of the Dark Matter is lightweight, stiff, and responsive. The carbon layup is optimized to work with gravel geometry, helping to strike a balance between performance and comfort. Handling and responsiveness are primary focuses, drawing geometry inspiration from Argon 18s endurance road bikes. The seatstays are designed to dissipate shock and vibration through subtle flexing. They can also accept tires up to 45c, giving riders plenty of room for extra grip and comfort on tough terrain. Thanks to the classic Argon Fit System, each frame size is designed individually so every rider can find their ideal frame. The Dark Matter makes the path less chosen fun and fast.
Every piece of the Argon 18 Dark Matter is seamlessly integrated to help the bike work as a singular system. It uses Argon 18s 3D System which smoothly merges the headset with the frame to deliver prime stiffness and handling. It offers both stiffness and aerodynamic improvements compared to standard spacers. The seatpost works well with the frame as well and includes a reversible saddle clamp which has 15mm and 25mm setback options. Full cable integration and easy maintenance make this bike easy to work on. This version is equipped with a SRAM Force AXS XPLR groupset, offering gravel-specific 12-speed electronic shifting. The Argon 18 Dark Matter is prepared to take on anything from your next race to your next multi-day adventure.
