Beginner’s Guide to Gravel Riding: Everything You Should Know

Gravel riding is rapidly becoming one of the most popular forms of cycling—offering a thrilling blend of adventure, endurance, and freedom on two wheels. Whether you're looking to escape busy roads, explore scenic backroads, or train on more forgiving terrain, gravel riding offers a unique experience that’s accessible to both beginners and seasoned cyclists. This guide will walk you through the essentials of gravel riding, from gear and bike setup to riding tips and safety.

1. What Is Gravel Riding?

Gravel riding involves cycling on unpaved roads—typically hard-packed dirt, crushed stone, or mixed terrain. These roads often run through rural areas, forests, or scenic countryside. Gravel riding bridges the gap between road cycling and mountain biking, combining endurance-focused rides with a bit of off-road adventure.

2. Choosing the Right Gravel Bike

You don’t necessarily need a dedicated gravel bike to get started, but having the right bike can make your rides smoother and more enjoyable.

Key features of a gravel bike:

Wider tires (35–45mm): Improve traction and comfort on rough surfaces.

Relaxed geometry: More stable and comfortable for long-distance and uneven terrain.

Disc brakes: Offer better stopping power, especially in muddy or wet conditions.

Mounts for gear: Extra bottle cages, racks, and frame bags for long rides or bikepacking.

If you’re just getting started, a cyclocross bike or even a hardtail mountain bike with slicker tires can work fine on light gravel.

3. Gear Essentials for Gravel Riding

In addition to your bike, a few pieces of gear can make gravel rides safer and more comfortable:

Helmet: Always wear a properly fitted helmet.

Tubeless tires: Reduce the chance of flats and allow you to ride at lower pressures for better grip.

Bike computer or GPS: Many gravel routes are remote—navigation is crucial.

Hydration and snacks: Carry more than you would on a road ride; services may be scarce.

Multi-tool and repair kit: Flats and mechanicals are more likely off-road.

Optional but useful: bar bags, frame bags, or seat packs for longer rides.

4. Tips for Riding on Gravel

Lower your tire pressure: This improves grip and comfort. Start around 35–45 psi, depending on your weight and tire width.

Stay loose: Let the bike move beneath you slightly instead of stiff-arming the handlebars. This helps with control and reduces fatigue.

Brake early and gradually: Gravel reduces traction. Avoid sudden or hard braking, especially in corners.

Pick your line: Avoid large rocks, deep sand, or ruts when possible. Smooth paths often appear along tire tracks or the crown of the road.

Pace yourself: Gravel can be more demanding than it looks. Save energy for loose climbs and technical sections.

5. Safety and Route Planning

Plan your route: Use apps like Komoot, RideWithGPS, or Strava to find gravel routes.

Tell someone: Let a friend know where you're riding, especially on remote trails.

Be self-sufficient: You may not see other riders or pass towns for miles—carry what you need.

Check the weather: Rain can quickly turn gravel into mud, making your route far more challenging.

6. Building Fitness for Gravel Riding

Gravel riding requires endurance and resilience, especially on rough terrain. Here’s how to prepare:

Mix in road rides to build base fitness.

Practice on varied terrain: Include hills, loose dirt, and technical descents.

Ride with weight: If you're bikepacking or doing long gravel events, simulate the load during training.

7. Events and Community

Gravel has a strong community vibe. Popular events like Unbound Gravel, Grinduro, and Belgian Waffle Ride welcome both elites and newcomers. Many local bike shops and cycling clubs host gravel rides—perfect for gaining experience and meeting fellow riders.

Final Thoughts

Gravel riding is all about exploration and versatility. It’s less about speed and more about the journey—taking you places that road bikes can’t and opening a whole new world of riding possibilities. With the right setup, some basic preparation, and a sense of adventure, you’ll find gravel riding to be one of the most rewarding and fun ways to enjoy the outdoors on two wheels.

Now get out there, embrace the dust, and enjoy the ride!