Steven Rindner Lists a Few Dos and Don’ts for Gravel Biking
Gravel biking has emerged as a popular form of cycling that combines the elements of road and mountain biking. Cycling on almost any non-technical and unsurfaced road would qualify as gravel riding. This may include canal paths, forest roads, old wagon trails and more. As Steven Rindner says, gravel biking adds a degree of thrill to the cycling experience. The captivating scenery that cyclists often witness along the way makes gravel biking among the most rewarding cycling adventures.
Steven Rindner highlights a few dos and don’ts for gravel biking
Venturing beyond the beaten path and embarking on a gravel experience can be a great choice. However, while gravel biking thrives on the thrill of the unexpected, it is imperative to be well-prepared before going on a ride. Here are a few dos and don’ts for gravel biking that one must follow:
- Do ensure proper bike setup: Before going on a gravel ride, one needs to properly check multiple elements of their bike, like the stem length, tire pressure, pedal type, and saddle height. Cyclists new to gravel biking often set their saddle too high and do not lower their tire pressure. But it is imperative to remember that high-pressure tires can increase traction, while setting the saddle too high may cause discomfort and reduced efficiency. Pedal types and handle positioning may also impact the quality of the gravel ride. Hence, it is crucial to carefully check the bike setup before every ride.
- Do not neglect maintenance: No rider would want to get stuck looking for a mechanic in the middle of nowhere. Moreover, a lack of bike maintenance can also be dangerous for gravel rides. Not checking the tire pressure or inspecting the brakes, or failing to clean and lube the chain, may lead to unexpected mechanical issues on the trail. Hence, it is prudent to pay proper attention to bike upkeep.
- Do ensure proper tire selection: Tire type, size, and tread pattern, all of it matter a lot in gravel biking. While excessively wide types would add unnecessary weight to the bike, too narrow ones may reduce stability. Inappropriate tire types can even compromise grip. Hence, one must carefully select tires based on their riding style and terrain to have a safe and enjoyable gravel biking experience.
- Do not over-pack: Overloading the bike with too many unnecessary gears can cause the cyclists to get exhausted pretty fast. Carrying heavy backpacks may ruin the fun of the ride. Therefore, cyclists must try their best to keep things simple by packing just a few essential tools like a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump. All of these can be placed in a saddle bag.
- Do carry enough food and water: While over-packing must be avoided, one must also carry sufficient water, snacks, and nutrition to stay fueled throughout their ride. The amount and type of food to be carried would depend on the specific requirements and preferences of the cyclist.
As Steven Rindner says, while gravel biking is a great way to explore off-road terrain, it also comes with many common mistakes that riders, particularly beginners, may make. Knowing the dos and don’ts of gravel biking would allow cyclists to elevate their gravel biking experience and stay safe on the trails.
