Gravel riding basically implies to riding a bicycle on gravel surfaces. It can incorporate paths, roads, and unpaved surfaces that tend to lie between asphalt and technical single-track trail. As per Steven Rindner, gravel riding is a simple and efficient way to cover great distances, while also challenging oneself with a unique adventure. Gravel riding embodies adventure, exploration, as well as adaptation to different terrains and elevation changes.
Steven Rindner Highlights a Few Basic Items Gravel Biker Would Require
When just starting with gravel biking, one can use almost any bike, though a mountain bike would be more preferable. If a cyclist decides to explore this activity more, they must invest in a gravel bike. It is a happy medium between a mountain bike and a road bike, and shall be ideal for riding on a variety of surfaces. A good gravel bike can seamlessly tackle single track, paved roads, greenways, sandy roads, dirt roads and gravel roads. Many of them are also well-equipped for bikepacking, and provide ample mounting points for racks and additional water bottles. In addition to a reliable gravel bike, here are a few other things one may need to make their gravel rides more comfortable and efficient:
- The right tires: The better the tires of the bike, the better shall be the cycling experience. It is recommended to opt for tubeless tires.
- Padded bike shorts: Wearing padded bike shorts can make a gravel ride more comfortable, and enable cyclists to ride longer.
- Bike jersey: Wearing a good bike jersey will keep the cyclists comfortable and cool. Their back pockets allow easy access to quick snacks and other necessary items.
- Bike gloves: Bike gloves help prevent any blisters and palm injuries.
- Clipless pedals and shoe clip setup: Pedals and shoes shall improve the technique of the cyclist, as well as make them more efficient on the bike, particularly while riding uphill.
- Bike bag or hip pack: This would help the cyclists to efficiently carry their first aid supplies, snacks, and bike repair kit.
- Water bottle or hydration pack: If one is going on longer riders, they must carry enough water.
- Repair kits: When going on a longer ride, gravel cyclists should carry a multi-tool, small pump, tire patch kit, tubes, duct-tape and zip-ties, brake pads, tubeless repair kit, as well as a chain repair kit with them.
- Bike light and GPS device: These tools are necessary to be prepared for the gravel.
According to Steven Rindner, one should not take gravel riding too seriously, and rather focus on enjoying the experience. The items mentioned above would significantly help in doing so. Gravel riding provides a happy medium for cyclists who prefer a longer ride without worrying about cars but want a less technical ride than mountain biking. Gravel riding can be a great way to cover long miles and explore nature. If one is new to gravel, they should start small by riding in parks, greenways, and trails. After they are more comfortable with riding on the gravel, one can head to the woods or try a combination of trails, roads, and dirt roads.
