Gravel Racing Guide For 2024

Choosing the right bike and gear is pivotal for your gravel race calendar. What is unique about a gravel race bike and the essential gear that you’ll want to consider before your big event?

I have specific gear that I only use while gravel riding and racing. Here are some basics to enhance your experience and performance on the gravel trail.

Highlights

• Gravel racing is a rapidly growing, inclusive sport that blends elements of road cycling, cyclocross, and mountain biking, accommodating a wide range of participants and bike types.
• Choosing the right gravel race bike involves considerations like frame geometry for comfort and performance, tire selection for optimal traction and speed, and suitable gearing options for varied terrain.
• Success in gravel racing requires the right bike, gear, mastery of specific riding techniques, customized training, and strategic nutrition and hydration plans.

Gravel Racing: What’s All the Hype?

Gravel racing is not your typical cycling event. It’s a unique blend of road, cyclocross, and mountain biking that has grown considerably in the last few years. Gravel racing is known for its inclusive nature and the camaraderie it fosters among participants, especially during gravel stage races.

The beauty of gravel racing lies in its diversity. With single-stage events, multi-day ultra-endurance challenges, smooth gravel roads, and adventurous singletrack, there are a lot of different formats.

The atmosphere is what many people like about a gravel race. Whether you are an amateur or a professional, gravel races welcome everyone.

You’ll see people on different bikes racing gravel as well. Some common types of bikes used in gravel racing include:

• Gravel bikes
• Aero road bikes
• Mountain bikes
• Modified mountain bikes
• Tandems

But what’s behind the remarkable growth of gravel racing? A lot of it is the fresh energy around its culture. Events such as Unbound Gravel, which attracted nearly 4,000 riders in 2023, are reshaping cycling by appealing to both professionals seeking a new dynamic and enthusiasts in search of adventure.

Similar to an Ironman triathlon, you get the opportunity to race alongside professionals, but at your own pace. For many racers, simply finishing is the reward.

The Anatomy of a Gravel Race Bike

As the gravel scene continues to evolve, so does the selection of bikes and gear, with many brands focusing on developing specialized gravel race bikes.

Preparing for a gravel race entails selecting the appropriate bike. Gravel race bikes are designed with specific attributes that optimize performance on mixed terrain. We’ll explore the defining characteristics of a gravel race bike, including frame geometry, tire selection, and gearing options.

Frame Geometry and Comfort

Many gravel bikes are designed with longer wheelbases and slackened head tube angles for better balance and control.

However, for those seeking to maximize efficiency and maintain an aerodynamic riding position, comfort may not be the top priority. A top-performing gravel race bike balances comfort with performance, and the secret lies in the frame design.

Take the Canyon Grail CFR, for instance, one of the best drop bar bikes on the market. Its frame is designed to win the biggest races, provides various hand positions, and minimizes vibrations which maximizes comfort.

Each brand is pushing technology and aerodynamics when designing its frames and geometry. When choosing a gravel bike, especially a gravel race bike, consider how the frame geometry can enhance your comfort and performance on the trail.

Gravel Bike Shoes & Pedals

On a gravel bike, riders use the same pedals traditionally used on mountain bikes (versus road bike pedals). These pedals and shoe combinations are preferred for environments ridden in gravel racing that include mud, water, and grit. The shoes are preferred for walking off the bike, which may be required at times.

Gravel biking often involves navigating through various terrains, from smooth gravel roads to rugged trails and technical descents. Unlike road bike pedals, which are optimized for smooth and consistent surfaces, clipless mountain bike pedals are designed to handle the unpredictable nature of off-road riding. The engagement mechanism is more forgiving, allowing riders to easily clip in and out in challenging conditions.

Wheel Clearance

Wheel clearance refers to the space between the bike frame and the tires. In the context of gravel bikes, this clearance becomes particularly important due to the varied and unpredictable surfaces riders encounter.

Unlike smooth asphalt, gravel roads can be bumpy, uneven, and filled with loose gravel, demanding a bike design that accommodates these challenges. Your tires may pick up debris not commonly found on road surfaces such as mud, snow, sticks, etc.

The extra clearance on a gravel bike helps avoid a sudden wheel lockup that would occur if an object suddenly jammed itself between the tire and frame.

Tire Choices for Traction and Speed

There are many tire tread designs to accommodate the terrain and environment that you are in. You’ll be predominately off-road so you want to make good choices. The right tires can enhance traction and speed or not get enough traction and leave you frustrated.

Tubeless tires are often the go-to choice for gravel races due to their added puncture protection and improved grip at lower pressures. Running lower tire pressure on tubeless tires cuts down on rolling resistance and boosts puncture protection, which translates to better performance and more confidence on gravel tracks.

But it’s not just about pressure; tire size matters too. Many racers are opting for a larger tire by 2-3mm to enhance handling skills and durability on courses with a mix of pavement and off-road terrain.

I try to always ask a local cyclist what tire they would recommend for a particular race. If a person has been riding the same trails, they’ll know what works and what doesn’t.

When it comes to tire brands, some popular brands are:

• Vittoria
• Continental
• Specialized
• Schwalbe

Known for their outstanding performance and reliability across diverse terrains, these brands are top choices for gravel racing enthusiasts, including gravel racers.

Gear Choices

Since gravel riding and racing terrains are different depending on your location, the correct gearing choices are important.

Both 1x drivetrains, which have a single chainring and a wide-range cassette, and 2x drivetrains, which provide a wider range of gear ratios, have their advantages. The 1x drivetrains streamline shifting and minimize weight and tend to be more popular with racing bikes. The 2x drivetrains tend to enhance control over cadence and effort.

The correct gear selection provides riders with the necessary range of gears to efficiently tackle both rapid flats and steep climbs, ensuring optimal performance and endurance throughout a race. Smaller chainrings and larger cassettes give you the mountain-bike-like gear ratio needed to conquer undulating terrain and singletrack segments in gravel racing, boosting your climbing capability and control.

Choosing the Best Gravel Race Bike for You

Selecting the optimal gravel race bike hinges on various factors, including your usual terrain, specific needs, and personal preferences. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly as it can significantly impact your performance and comfort during the race.

Rider height and weight play a crucial role in enhancing the choice of a gravel race bike. By considering the ride height and bike sizing, riders can optimize their performance and comfort on the bike.

However, choosing a gravel race bike isn’t just about the physical fit. It’s also about considering the terrain you usually ride on and your specific requirements and preferences. This ensures that the bike you choose is the perfect fit for you both physically and in terms of performance.

Whether you’re a seasoned gravel racer or a novice looking to dip your toes in the gravel racing scene, remember that the best gravel race bike for you is one that matches your riding style, meets your performance needs, and fits within your budget. Gravel racing bikes come in various designs and price ranges, making it easier for you to find the perfect fit.

Gravel Riding Techniques and Training Tips

Excelling in gravel racing demands mastery of specific riding techniques and customized training.

You’ll need to become accustomed and comfortable with some skidding and obstacle avoidance. The gravel riding skills are often compared to mountain biking skills, except on a road-type bike.

In short, the terrain that you will be on is often uneven, and unpaved, and may require a bunny hop at times. You may go through mud, water, and snow during your ride. And you’ll probably love every minute of it.

Essential Gravel Racing Gear

Besides having a well-tuned bike and mastering riding techniques, carrying essential gear can make your gravel racing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

We’ll explore essential items that you should carry to ensure a successful ride or race.

Navigation

Given the unpredictable nature of the terrain in a race, reliable navigation tools become indispensable. GPS navigational aids such as the best GPS watches or bike computers can guide you through the rugged terrain and keep you on course.

Get your hands on route maps from race promoters, in the race packet or online, and familiarize yourself with the course in advance. During the race, look out for marked signs, stakes, and spray paint that guide the racers.

On some courses it can be easy to get lost, so don’t make us come and find you.

Repair Kits and Emergency Supplies

Flat tires, broken chains, and cut sidewalls can throw a wrench in your race plans. You’ll want to make sure you can repair any issues that come up without someone else’s help. This means carrying a well-stocked repair kit.

Your ultimate gravel race bike repair kit should include:

• Allen keys
• Torx key
• Screwdriver
• Chain breaker
• Spare tube
• CO2 inflator
• Multitool

Basically, whatever you might need to fix your particular gravel bike.

In addition to repair tools, make sure to have:

• Extra tire repair tools
• Spare tubes
• Pumps
• Plugs
• A quick link for chain repairs
• Sunscreen
• Emergency money

Preparing for Race Day

Proper preparation involves fine-tuning your bike setup, testing your nutrition and hydration strategies, and developing a race plan to manage challenges and optimize performance.

A well-planned nutrition strategy is key to success in gravel racing. Here are some tips to help you fuel your body effectively:

• Incorporate meal plans that maintain adequate glycogen levels through a high carbohydrate intake.
• Avoid hitting the wall during the race by fueling properly.
• Establish a robust fuel base for your body.

Hydration is equally important. A thoroughly tested hydration strategy can make a significant difference in your performance. A highly recommended hydration strategy involves:

• Consuming 500-1,000 ml of fluid per hour with electrolytes
• Pre-hydrating with sodium
• Ensuring early and consistent hydration with a sodium drink during the race, especially for riders who sweat heavily or compete in hot conditions.

Gravel races hurt. They require a lot of concentration and don’t have a lot of coasting like you might have on the road. It’s difficult but fun. Good preparation will give you the confidence and endurance needed to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

Showcasing Top Gravel Events

Gravel racing caters to a wide range of interests and experiences, as reflected by the diverse selection of events. We’ll highlight a few top-tier gravel events that provide participants with unique experiences.

Grinduro, for instance, stands out with its unique format that combines gravel racing with enduro-style timing. On the other hand, Unbound Gravel is known for its grassroots organization and a challenging single-loop course in the Flint Hills. These events offer a unique challenge that tests participants with a blend of multiple riding disciplines, making them more challenging than typical gravel races.

For those looking for a multi-day stage race, the TransRockies Gravel Royale crosses the Canadian Rockies with comprehensive rider support. Participants can expect a wide range of comprehensive support including food, water, showers, bike wash stations, massage therapists, and sports physio services, ensuring an incredible experience.

Summary

Gravel racing is a thrilling sport that combines the best elements of road, cyclocross, and mountain biking.

It’s a discipline that demands a well-rounded skill set, the right gear, and a solid training plan. The key to success lies in proper preparation, the right equipment, and an unwavering spirit of adventure.

So get out there, kick up some dust, and conquer the gravel racing world!

Frequently Asked Questions

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