Gravel racing involves racing a gravel bike on dirt, gravel, and multi-surface roads. Conditions for a gravel bike race can be pretty demanding. These races can have diverse distance options ranging from 20 miles to hundreds of miles, to accommodate the requirements of varying cyclists. According to Steven Rindner, whether one is in it for a short spin or the long haul, gravel biking can provide them with the opportunity to interact with amazing people and witness beautiful scenery.
Steven Rindner Highlights a Few Items One Must Have When Participating in a Gravel Race
Gravel biking has emerged as one of the fastest growing cycling disciplines. The allure of gravel biking is simple for many cyclists; they love the challenge and the competition. Another prominent reason for trying out gravel biking is the people. For numerous cyclists, while the goal remains to reach the finish line, if they can have a nice chat as they go around, it makes the experience much more rewarding. After all, nothing builds camaraderie faster than facing challenges together.
While gravel biking can be a great idea for many, there are a few things one would need when participating in such a race, including:
- A bike: One wouldn’t have to invest in an expensive gravel bike for their first gravel bike A hardtail mountain bike, city bike or even a road bike that has decent tire clearance would work fine. Based on their experience in the gravel race, one can determine whether they should invest in a purpose-built gravel bike or not.
- The perfect clothes: Wearing the ideal clothes is important for any sports event, including gravel racing. Cyclists should ideally wear a jersey and shorts that are breathable and can wick away perspiration to stay comfortable during long miles. It would be prudent to wear clothes with multiple pockets, in order to carry tools and nutrition.
- Saddle up: Whether one is going on a 30-mile gravel ride or a 200-mile epic gravel race, getting the right saddle is extremely important. The right saddle will help the cyclists to stay comfortable throughout the ride.
- Hydration: Cyclists must carry plenty of water or hydration mix on a gravel race. The majority of gravel races and rides tend to cover many more unsupported miles than road and mountain bike races. Hence, it becomes critical to carry plenty of water to keep one’s thirst quenched, especially when conditions become too demanding. Cyclists should ideally stock up with a bottle for every cage on their gravel bike before heading out.
- Nutrition: Cyclists should ideally eat at least every hour of their gravel ride to prevent an energy crash. It is better to carry simple snacks like bananas, granola bars, as well as energy gels or chews that can help keep up one’s energy.
As per Steven Rindner, gravel bike races are likely to have 10- to 20-mile stretches without aid stations, and therefore, cyclists must also bring their own tools and know-how to use them. They should at least carry a flat repair kit, two tubes, and a multi-tool.