All You Need For Gravel Cycling

Gravel bikes are extremely versatile and can be ridden on tarmac roads to smoother MTB trails. Dirt fire roads are the ideal terrain for exploring on a gravel bike. Picking the most suitable gravel tyres to suit the terrain you plan to ride will make a large difference to gravel riding experience.

You will probably find riding a gravel bike slightly harder than riding a road bike. Wider tyres on rougher, often corrugated roads use more energy to cover the same distances, plus gravel bikes are usually slightly heavier bikes than their road counterparts.

The length of your ride will determine what you need to bring on your ride. On longer gravel rides you need carry much more than a short one hour training ride. Gravel specific clothing has addition pockets in bib shorts and jerseys to help you carry these additional items.

You can now purchase gravel specific clothing that has additional storage pockets in the bib knicks, jerseys and vests, which is quiet useful when on longer rides. Gels and bars can be carried in leg pockets and phones, money etc. can be stored in the rear pockets of the Jersey or bibs. If the weather requires a vest or jacket these can also be stored in these rear pockets

Accessories for Gravel are similar to regular road riding such as a pump, CO2 pump and cartridges, GPS computer, two bottle cages or hydration pack. If you’re planning on doing some longer touring style gravel rides then bike bags to carry additional food, clothing and sleeping/camping gear may also be required, depending on your plans.

With the introduction of gravel bikes people are enjoying exploring new areas they may have never ridden before. Gravel bikes give the rider the opportunity to get away from busy roads and cars. The bikes are very versatile so allow riders to ride the road, pathways, gravel roads and even some MTB tracks - many riders are using their gravel bike as their do it all bike now.

What is a gravel bike? 

Given the terrain and type of riding we’ve just described, it probably isn’t a surprise for you to now learn that a gravel bike borrows a bit from both worlds; road and mountain. It makes sense, right? That said, there is no such thing as a classic gravel bike as the finished look depends very much on the manufacturer. Indeed, one might take more cues from road cycling whilst another may choose to draw more inspiration from mountain biking. 

Despite these nuances, typical gravel bike features include: 

Drop handlebars 

As you would see on a road bike, the drops are here because gravel riding often incorporates long stretches during which you can really settle in, drop down and find your groove at a decent pace. 

Wide tyres 

As you would see on a mountain bike, expect wider profile tyres (40mm) to help you move across all that challenging terrain. This also means you tend to travel more slowly than you would if on a road bike. However, unlike some mountain biking, you won’t have enormous tread - there will be some grip with more aggressive options available for muddier conditions. 

Low gearing

Again, to help you over the trickier terrain and up any surprise steep climbs.

Aluminium or carbon frame 

This type of riding calls for a material that can take a knock but something that doesn’t weigh a lot; you need to be agile, fairly speedy, but ready for the curveballs this riding will throw your way. 

Slacker frame and fork angles 

This helps give the bike more stable handling, which is very much necessary off-road. 

What should you wear when gravel riding? 

Bib & baggy short combination

For maximum bum support/comfort and minimal chafing, opt for a cycling bib and (if it’s your style), a pair of baggy, waterproof cycling shorts over the top, Santini offer a specific gravel collection for all your gravel needs. There’s a growing trend in gravel for ‘fitted baggy’ - again, it’s like a hybrid between road and mtb!

Base layer 

Look for moisture-repelling material that will keep you warm on those cold wintery days out but also dry as you really pick up the pace. 

Jersey 

You want a jersey with plenty of pockets as chances are you’re out cycling for a long stretch, but you’re nowhere near a cafe, petrol station or supermarket. So, fill those pockets with nutritional snacks and any spare parts/ puncture repair tools that don’t fit elsewhere. Look for material that is great for high-paced riding; plenty of breathing panels, cooling and moisture repelling properties.

Quick-zip jacket 

Aim for a wind and waterproof jacket that you can whip on or off quick as a flash, as gravel doesn’t do downtime so well!  

Gravel riding accessories 

Gravel bike shoes 

Aim for a wind and waterproof jacket that you can whip on or off quick as a flash, as gravel doesn’t do downtime so well!   We mentioned earlier that more and more brands are developing gravel-centric lines, and this is particularly true for shoes. Because you’re likely to be out for long sessions on rough surfaces, a classic mountain bike or road bike shoe just isn’t ideal. Instead, you should go straight to gravel specific bike shoes like the Rockit lace-up cycling shoes from Northwave.

Gravel shoe features include: