Getting into gravel racing

Imagine combining the thrill of mountain biking with the efficiency of road cycling. That’s exactly what gravel riding is—a hybrid that has exploded in popularity over recent years. Gravel bikes, also known as “gravel grinders,” blend the best of both worlds: the speed and agility of road bikes and the durability and versatility of mountain bikes. These machines are built to handle pavement, dirt roads, and even singletrack, making them ideal for adventurers who want to explore beyond the beaten path. The ability to ride on various surfaces adds an element of discovery to the sport, and when a group of enthusiasts gathers, it's only a matter of time before a race begins.

How We Got Here

While gravel-style riding and racing have been around for decades, the genre really took off in the 2000s. As its popularity grew, so did gravel racing. So, what exactly is gravel racing? It’s a mix of different cycling disciplines—think Gran Fondo road races, cross-country mountain biking, and even some cyclocross elements. Gravel races often take place on gravel roads, which are abundant in the U.S., making them easy to organize. Races can span across different terrains, from small towns to remote trails, creating a festive atmosphere along the way. While they may start on gravel, they can also include double-track, singletrack, and even pavement, just to connect one section to another.

Because gravel races typically occur on less-traveled roads, they're much safer than other forms of cycling. Road racing involves high traffic, which increases the risk of accidents. Even closed-course road races mean spending hours next to cars, where a distracted driver could cause serious issues. Gravel eliminates these dangers, offering minimal traffic and manageable trail conditions. The worst you might face is a bumpy road or a muddy patch.

Mountain biking can be intimidating, especially if you're new to racing. It requires advanced handling skills, and the fear of crashing on technical trails can keep many people away. However, gravel bikes don’t come with suspension, so when they do hit singletrack, it's usually on beginner-friendly trails. This makes gravel racing more accessible, allowing riders to focus on building endurance rather than navigating difficult sections.

Different Types of Races

Like other forms of cycling, gravel racing has several formats. Here are the most popular ones you’ll encounter if you're considering getting into the sport.

The first and most common is the single-stage gravel race. This is the simplest form of gravel racing, with a clear start and finish. These races vary widely in distance, from 30–50 miles (48–80 km) up to 200+ miles (320+ km). Some events offer both long and short courses, giving experienced riders the option to tackle longer distances while still allowing beginners to participate.

If you're looking for a longer adventure, consider a multi-stage gravel race. These events span multiple days, with varying levels of support. Some require riders to carry all their gear, like a tent and food, from one stage to the next, while others provide support teams that transport equipment and set up camp. For those seeking comfort, tour-style races handle lodging through hotels, making them ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed experience.

Multi-stage races also vary in length. Daily distances typically range from 50 to 75 miles (80 to 120 km), which is more manageable and sustainable over several days. Some races even offer short and long course options within the same event.

The final format is enduro-style gravel racing. Similar to enduro mountain biking, these races time specific segments of the course, such as climbs, descents, and technical sections, but not the entire race. The fastest total time wins, making it a great option for those who enjoy varied terrain and strategic pacing.

What Makes Gravel Racing Special?

Gravel races are known for their unique atmosphere. Unlike other forms of cycling, they bring together seasoned professionals and local heroes, creating a fun and inclusive environment. You might see someone in a tutu winning a race, and that’s part of the charm. If it's your first race and you're feeling nervous, don't worry—you’re not alone. Many first-time participants find that the excitement of the race helps ease their nerves.

Depending on the event, gravel races can range from small, no-frills gatherings to full-blown festivals with food trucks, beer gardens, and activities for kids. They’re a great way for families to get involved and enjoy the outdoors together. The barrier to entry is low, and you can use almost any bike to start. If you're aiming for a podium spot, a quality gravel bike is essential, but even a basic road bike can work for casual rides with friends.

What Kind of Bike Do I Use?

While almost any bike can handle a dirt road, some are better suited for gravel riding. Cyclocross bikes are closely related to gravel bikes, and many riders have seen them used on off-road trails. Mountain bikes can also work, especially hardtail or rigid models designed for cross-country riding. Hybrid, touring, and commuter bikes are also good options. Some cyclists even upgrade their road bikes with wider, knobbier tires for better performance on gravel.

If you're looking to get into gravel racing, a dedicated gravel bike should be on your list. These bikes are designed to handle a variety of terrains, combining the comfort of a road bike with the ruggedness of a mountain bike. They’re versatile machines that can be used for commuting, training, racing, and even occasional singletrack rides. In fact, many riders consider a gravel bike to be the perfect all-around machine.

Tire Choice

Tires play a crucial role in gravel riding and are one of the key factors that set gravel bikes apart from other types of bikes. Most gravel bikes are designed to accommodate tires as wide as 42 mm, with some models even able to run 2.2-inch (55 mm) mountain bike tires. Over time, gravel tires have become wider, resembling cross-country mountain bike tires.

Choosing the right tire can make a big difference in your performance. On long stretches of hard-packed dirt or asphalt, you'll want tires with less aggressive treads to reduce rolling resistance. For rougher terrain or singletrack, knobbier and wider tires will give you better traction. Tires with closely spaced knobs roll faster on dry roads, while those with more spacing help shed mud and improve grip in wet conditions. Many multi-stage racers carry extra wheelsets with different tires, switching between stages if possible.

Changing tire pressure can also give you an edge. If you know you’ll be riding on asphalt, you can increase pressure for more efficiency. When returning to gravel, lower the pressure to maximize grip and control. If you're just starting out, talk to your local bike shop—they’ll likely recommend a tire that balances traction and efficiency. Make sure to check the maximum tire width your frame can accommodate before buying.

Consider switching to tubeless tires if you haven’t already. Tubeless setups allow you to run lower pressures, which improves grip without sacrificing efficiency. Using tubes at lower pressures can lead to pinch flats, so tubeless is a smarter choice. To learn more about tire selection, check out our article on how to choose the right tires for your gravel bike.

Gearing

Choosing the right cassette can significantly impact your performance on race day. Many modern gravel-specific derailleurs are designed for single-ring (no front derailleur) groupsets and can accept cassettes with up to 42 teeth. This provides a wide range of gears to suit different terrains.

The number of teeth on the smallest and largest cog determines the gear ratio. A common setup for gravel is an 11-42t cassette paired with a 40t or 42t front chainring. Higher gear ratios are useful for long, steep climbs, where maintaining a sustainable pace is key. Conversely, races with minimal elevation gain benefit from smaller cogs, like an 11-36t cassette, to maintain a fast cadence. Some gravel bikes come with double chainrings, offering even more flexibility in gear selection.

Mechanical Tips

Since gravel races often cover long distances, mechanical issues are relatively common. Being stranded miles from home due to a flat or broken chain can be frustrating, so it's important to be prepared.

A flat tire is the most common issue you'll face. If you're running tubeless tires, make sure your repair kit includes a plug tool and plugs. Also, include a CO2 cartridge and head for quick inflation. Don't forget a spare tube and tire lever in case of major damage. Practicing tire repairs at home will help you avoid problems on race day.

Another common issue is a dropped chain. This happens when the chain falls off the front chainring, either behind or in front of it. To fix this:

• Flip the bike and place it on the ground, drive-side up, resting on the handlebar horns and saddle.
• Push the derailleur cage forward with your left hand to create slack in the chain.
• With your right hand, grab the chain and place it on the chainring, ensuring the teeth lock into the chain.
• Release the derailleur and chain, stand the bike up, lift the rear wheel slightly, and pedal forward to reattach the chain.

A broken chain is more serious. Carry extra chain links in your repair kit, and practice fixing a broken chain at home. Knowing how to remove and replace links can save you from being stranded on the trail.

Train (Put in the Work)

No matter how expensive your gravel bike is, it won't help you unless you train properly. Even if you're already fit, completing a gravel race may require significant endurance. Start by finding nearby gravel roads and gradually increase the distance. As you build stamina, try different terrains like chunky roads and singletrack to develop your handling skills.

Riding is a good start, but structured training is what separates serious riders. Focus on building strength in your legs, core, and arms. Practice handling skills like quick mounting and dismounting, and carrying your bike. If you're serious about racing, consider hiring a coach who can design a training plan tailored to your goals.

Find a Race

A simple Google search can help you find gravel races near you. If you can't find anything, visit your local bike shop. Race organizers are often shop owners or employees, and they usually share information with shops to fill spots. Websites like reg.com and gravelcyclist.com are also great resources for finding events and connecting with the gravel community.

Research multiple events with different distances. If it's your first race, start with a shorter one to match your fitness level. As you gain experience, you can tackle longer races and push yourself further.

Register and Prepare

If you find a race you like, sign up as soon as possible. Spots fill up quickly, and early registration can save you money. Some popular races sell out in minutes, so don't wait too long. If you miss the deadline, ask the organizer about a waitlist.

Once registered, start preparing for race day. Watch YouTube videos of the course or ride it if possible. Ensure your bike is in top condition and bring enough food, water, and a repair kit. Race day can be intense, even for amateurs, so mental preparation is just as important as physical.

Packet Pickup

Larger races usually require you to pick up your race packet and attend an orientation the day before the event. This process takes about an hour and covers important details like aid stations, drop-bag locations, and route changes. Attending the orientation is highly recommended to ensure you're fully prepared.

Race Day

Don’t rush on race day. Events can be busy, and parking may be limited. Arrive early to park, check in, and ask questions. If you're unfamiliar with the course, take time to learn the start and finish areas, as well as the first and last moves of the race. Calm your mind, stretch, fuel up, and hydrate. Chat with other riders to stay positive and focused.

Reflect and Improve

After the race, reflect on what went well and what didn’t. Some issues, like mechanical failures, are out of your control. But if there are things you could have done better, use them as learning opportunities. If you struggled on technical climbs, focus on improving your handling skills. If your performance declined over time, work on pacing or building more base endurance.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

It's easy to get caught up in the racing mindset, but remember that the most important thing about cycling is having fun. Gravel racing is as much about the camaraderie among riders as it is about finishing on the podium. Whether you win, place, or just finish, celebrate your progress and connect with the community. Even if you don’t finish this time, enjoy the journey and set a goal to do better next year.

Involve your family in the experience. Due to the low risk of injury, gravel riding is a great activity for kids and inexperienced riders. Many races have family-friendly events, and the atmosphere is often more like a festival than a competition. Turn your gravel race into a family vacation, and you'll have a cheering squad right by your side.

Top Gravel Races in the U.S.

Here are some races you may consider:

• Belgian Waffle Ride, Arizona. This race takes place in the desert near Scottsdale and offers three distances—39, 79, and 122 miles. With nearly 9,000 feet of climbing, it's a challenging but rewarding ride through unique desert landscapes.
• Rule of Three Race, Bentonville, Arkansas. This event evenly distributes riders across singletrack, gravel, and roads. With 50- and 100-mile options and around 8,500 feet of elevation change, it's a great choice for all skill levels.
• Oregon Gravel Grinder, Sisters, Oregon. This five-stage race takes place in June and covers 350 miles across the Cascade Mountains. Each stage is supported with camping supplies and spare wheels, making it a unique and immersive experience.

Consider Bicycle Insurance

Cycling is an accessible and exciting hobby, but it also comes with risks. Gravel racing requires both financial and time commitments, and it's important to protect your investment. Unfortunately, bicycles are stolen every 30 seconds, and fewer than 5% of stolen bikes are ever recovered.

If gravel biking is a vital part of your lifestyle, consider protecting your bike with a gravel bicycle insurance policy from Velosurance. Unlike traditional insurance, this policy covers risks inherent to the sport, such as theft and accidental damage. It can also include optional coverage like racing, medical payments, and worldwide protection.

Velosurance was created to provide cyclists with coverage that truly reflects their lifestyle and gives peace of mind. With a decade of experience insuring bikes, we can tailor a policy to fit your specific needs. An online quote takes less than 5 minutes, and most policies are issued within an hour.