What Is Gravel Biking
Gravel biking is the luxury of having a bike that you can use with your mates on road rides, and have the luxury in that you can also use it along canal paths ans tractor trails on smooth or rough gravel with the knowlwdge that it should still be comfortable, and fast over any type of ground, except for the rocky stuff that mountain bikes are designed for.
The world of gravel cycling has moved on in massive leaps and bounds in 2019 thanks to the many professionals and amateurs who have joined the ranks of gravel cyclists, and to those in the USA who have found a new type of cycling that does not involve roads.
Gravel biking has taken off big style and has already seen many big name race wins and quite a lot of big and small companies improve and build gravel bikes purely for gravel roads and gravel riding.
Dirty Kanza in the USA is probably the best well known race of them all, and attracts some of the best professional road and gravel riders to the event. Think Laurens Ten Dam and Colin Strickland. Barry Roubaix ( Yes I Know) is probably the one most riders would love to win due to the prize money available.
One of the great things about gravel biking is the variety of bikes and equipment that are available. Gravel bikes come in many different shapes and sizes, with a range of features and technologies that are designed to make off-road riding more comfortable and efficient. Some gravel bikes are more closely related to road bikes, with a more aggressive geometry and narrower tires, while others are more akin to mountain bikes, with wider tires and a more relaxed stance.
When choosing a gravel bike, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Some factors to consider include the type of terrain you’ll be riding on, your level of experience, and your budget. It’s also a good idea to test ride several different bikes to see which one feels the most comfortable and handles the best.
Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your gravel bike in good working condition. This includes cleaning and lubricating the drivetrain, checking and inflating the tires, and replacing worn-out components. It’s also a good idea to take your bike to a professional bike shop for regular tune-ups and maintenance.
Training and conditioning are important for any type of cycling, and gravel biking is no exception. To prepare for gravel biking, it’s a good idea to focus on building your endurance and strength through cycling and other types of cardio and strength training exercises. It’s also important to properly fuel your body before and during rides, and to stay hydrated.
Gravel bikepacking is a type of long-distance off-road cycling that involves carrying all of your gear on your bike. It can be a great way to explore new areas and have a self-supported adventure. When planning a gravel bikepacking trip, it’s important to consider the route, the terrain, and the amount of gear you’ll need to carry.
The right tires and wheels can make a big difference in your gravel biking experience. Wider tires with a lower pressure will provide more traction and comfort on rough terrain, while narrower tires with a higher pressure will be faster on smooth surfaces. It’s also important to choose wheels that are strong and durable enough to handle the demands of off-road riding.
Gravel biking events and races have grown in popularity in recent years, with a range of options available for riders of all levels. These events can range from short, local rides to multi-day stage races, and they often take place on scenic and challenging gravel roads.
Gravel biking can be a great way for road riders to mix up their training and try something new. It can help improve overall fitness, build strength and endurance, and provide a new and exciting challenge. Plus, the variety of terrain and scenery that gravel biking offers can be a nice change of pace from the road.
The history and evolution of gravel biking is closely tied to the development of other cycling disciplines such as cyclocross and mountain biking. Gravel bikes have become more specialized in recent years, with a wider range of models and features designed specifically for off-road riding.
There are many great destinations and trails to explore on a gravel bike. From the rolling hills and dirt roads of rural America to the challenging mountain passes of Europe and beyond, the options are virtually endless. Some popular gravel biking destinations include the Colorado Rockies, the gravel roads of Kansas, and the trails of the French Alps.