How to Prepare for an Epic Gravel Ride
Preparing for an epic gravel ride involves meticulous planning, proper equipment maintenance, and physical conditioning. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, these steps will help ensure your ride is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.
Step 1: Research and Plan Your Route
Research and plan your route using Strava or Ride With GPS, or do a Google search. You can use many routes in the public domain as a starting point for your ride. It’s also possible to take an existing route and modify it to match the type of ride you want. The choices you make with your route planning will significantly impact equipment choices.
Gravel Quality: Gravel roads can vary in size and type. You will want to consider the type of gravel and how well-maintained the roads are.
Mixed Surfaces: Many routes include a mix of gravel, dirt, sand, paved sections, and even water crossings. You will want to be aware of these.
Remote Areas: Be prepared for remote sections where help may be unavailable. Carry extra supplies and have a contingency plan.
Rest Stops: Be sure to plan for scenic or convenient rest stops where you can take a break, hydrate, and refuel.
Step 2: Prep Your Bike
Before embarking on your gravel adventure, ensure your bike is in top condition. A well-maintained bike performs better and reduces the risk of mechanical issues during your ride. Most gravel bikes come with lots of options for carrying additional equipment, like a third bottle cage. Be sure to explore what’s unique to your bike and consider taking advantage of it.
Brakes and Gears: Check your brakes for wear and ensure they function correctly. Test your gears to make sure they shift smoothly.
Tires: For better traction and comfort, consider wider tires with good tread. Check your tire pressure and match it to the spec of your rims.
General Maintenance: Clean your bike, lubricate the chain, and check all bolts and components for tightness. Consider Loctite to ensure that all bolts are secure.
Test Ride: Take your bike for a 30- to 45-minute ride with any new equipment you’ve added to get a feel for handling and correcting an issue before your big ride.
Step 3: Build Your Fitness and Stamina
Gravel riding is physically demanding. It's important to build your fitness and stamina in the weeks before your ride. You will want to train well in advance of your ride to build up the fitness and endurance required to complete your adventure.
Regular Training: Include both on-road and off-road rides to get accustomed to different terrains and improve your bike handling skills.
Interval Training: Add interval training to build cardiovascular endurance and strength. Short, intense efforts followed by recovery periods will greatly improve your fitness.
Long Rides: Gradually increase the duration of your rides to build stamina, and aim for at least one long ride per week.
Get a Coach: Seek out the advice of a professional who can help you train and prepare for a big event like Gravel Unbound or your own multi-day adventure.
Step 4. Pack Your Gear
The night before your ride, you will want to pack the right gear, which is crucial for a successful gravel ride. The length of your ride, the expected weather, and the time of year will all greatly influence your gear choices. Also, if you’re going with a group, it’s possible to divide up some of the heavier gear across the team to make it easier to carry.
Here's a comprehensive checklist of essential items:
Bike Maintenance Tools
Multi-Tool: A multi-tool can help you make minor adjustments and repairs on the go.
Spare Tubes and Pump: Flats are common on gravel rides.
Tire Levers: Essential for changing flats quickly and efficiently.
Patch Kit: A lightweight patch kit can be a lifesaver if you run out of spare tubes.
Chain Lube: Keep your chain running smoothly, especially on longer rides.
Portable Chain Tool: Useful for fixing a broken chain on the go.
Hydration and Nutrition
Hydration Packs or Bottles: Hydration packs or multiple water bottles are recommended.
Electrolyte Tablets: Help prevent dehydration and cramping.
Energy Gels and Bars: Compact and easy to consume.
Trail Mix or Nuts: Good for sustained energy during long rides.
Clothing for Changing Weather
Layers: Dress in layers to adapt to varying temperatures. Consider packing a lightweight rain jacket, arm warmers, and a buff or neck gaiter.
Gloves: Full-finger gloves for cooler conditions and fingerless gloves for warmer weather.
Helmet: Always wear a helmet for safety.
Cycling Shorts: Padded shorts can make long rides more comfortable.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential
Safety and Navigation
Bike Computer: Download offline maps in case you lose signal.
Smartphone: This can be used as a backup navigation app.
Power Bank: To keep your devices charged, especially on longer rides.
Headlamp or Bike Lights: Essential for early starts, late finishes, or unexpected delays.
First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit for minor injuries.
ID and Emergency Contact Information: Carry identification and emergency contact details.
Miscellaneous Items
Cash and Cards: For any unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Ziplock Bags: These are useful for keeping electronics and essential items dry.
Trash Bag: Leave no trace—pack out what you pack in.
Additional Tips for Multi-Day Rides
Bikepacking Bags: Use frame, saddle, and handlebar bags to carry additional gear without affecting your bike's handling too much.
Camping Gear: If you plan to camp overnight, pack lightweight camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies. Hammocks work well and are easy to carry.
Advance Resupply: Consider mailing additional food and equipment to a town on your route. This will give you convenient resupply points along the way.
Step 5. Get Out There and Ride
After all the meticulous planning, thorough preparation, and careful packing, the moment has finally arrived: it's time to get out there and enjoy the ride!
If you’re looking for gravel rides, check out The Top 10 Mass Start Gravel Rides in the World.
