Gravel cycling: Tips from going on-road to off-road.
By Angela Naeth
GRAVEL RIDING takes the cyclist off-road, on-road and everything in between. It’s an adventure on two wheels that has become increasingly popular due to the riders ability to get away from traffic and road riding, and explore.
“Gravel” can be many forms of road/trail from: dirt roads, paths, single-track, farming roads, jeep trails, mud, packed dirt, sand and pebbles/rock. Gravel bikes are geared toward handling all of this with the right tires. Gravel events are everywhere and vary in distances from 20 miles to 350 miles!
If you’re a road/triathlete and looking to get into gravel, here’s some tips to get on the path less taken! Adventure awaits!
BIKE
A gravel bike is similar to a road bike or cyclocross bike with a few differences. You can use a road or cyclocross bike though by just adding durable wider tires that can go on different terrain. Typically 40s are a good tire size. Any local bike shop can steer you in the right direction
For those that go for the long haul, you can put on clip on aero bars. Many gravel riders have these on their bikes for the longer events for comfort and change of position. Due to the nature of the gravel bike being in a more road position setup, you just want to ensure that the bars are comfortable and you have good hip range of motion.
Size of tires make a big difference! Slick and skinny tires only have so much traction and the smaller/thinner the tire, the more difficult it will be to ride all different terrains. Wider tires allow for more freedom, especially those with some traction to them.
Gravel bike geometry has a relaxed fit with a longer wheelbase, lower bottom bracket and clearance for wider tires - all of this allows for more stability and comfort on a wide array of terrain. Disc brakes are ideal for a gravel bike for quick and great stopping power compared to rim brakes.
Nutrition
Nutrition is a game-changer for the longer rides. Carbohydrates, salt and fluids are the biggest needs for any endurance athlete. Using a variety of products like Powerbar, gels will help keep you energized. My go-to plan is sports drink with at least 500mg of Salt per bottle, and a gel every 45 minutes. There are a variety of nutrition products out there with the importance being on constant fueling for any trek!
Tire Pressure
Tire pressure can make or break your race. Too low and you chance losing energy and flatting, too high and you chance losing traction and a very uncomfortable ride. A good place to start is around 30-35 depending on the tire choice (refer to the tire itself as well). As a 125 lb rider, I like 28 on size 40 tires.
How to ride/technique
Gravel surfaces range from loose gravel to hard paved roads. You’ll want to practice all types of terrain. As they say, the more you practice the better you’ll be and naturally learn how to handle the bike. Avoiding sharp turns and deep gravel (find a smooth line) will help you navigate thru some of the terrain. A key technique is think of steering the bike with your hips and slight leaning (shifting your weight ) in the direction you want to go. If you’ve ever been on a motorbike, it can have the same feeling. If you need to stand, be sure to put the weight more to the front of the tire (as you climb) to keep traction on the wheels. When descending and standing be sure to squat back behind the seat so the weight is in the back.
Race/adventure
There are a number of different events and races for gravel racers. The vibe is a mix of competition, and those who are out there for the passion of fun and adventure. It really is a unique community. Check out some local events in your community and Facebook groups. The key is to just get out there and start exploring! Lots of events can be found on bikereg.com searching gravel grinder.