Intro to Gravel Riding

Gravel riding can mean different things to different people, but at its core, it is the ability to ride wherever you want. You might want to travel down dirt roads, paved paths, or remote trails—all in one day. You might take short trips from home, multi-day adventures, or something in between. There is no wrong way to do gravel—and that is why so many people love it.  

But whatever way you do it, gravel riding is tough. Off-road surfaces require more energy to cover the same distance compared to riding on pavement, and the right gear can make everything more comfortable and enjoyable.  

We put together this guide to help get you started or help to get you to the next level. Reach out with questions—we are here to help. 

• What Makes a Bike a Gravel Bike? 
• Tire Selection and Set-Up 
• Preparing for the Demands of Gravel Riding 
• What to Carry With You for a Gravel Ride or Race
• Join Us at Gravel Camp!  

What Makes a Bike a Gravel Bike?

Essentially, a gravel bike is any bike that you are comfortable riding and has tires meant for offroad use. It also helps to have gearing for a wide variety of terrain.  

Within that definition, there is a wide variety of bikes. The type of terrain you are interested in riding and events you are planning to participate in will help you select the right option for you.   

Racing bikes will have a more aggressive geometry and look more like a road bike. They often have few (if any) gear mounts or places to mount bags and racks. Gravel bikes like the Cervelo Aspero or the Specialized Crux are good for riders looking for efficiency and speed over both pavement and gravel. These riders might stick to less technical terrain or have the skills and willingness to sacrifice comfort to tackle rough roads and trails.  

Adventure bikes will have a more relaxed geometry, wider tire clearance, lots of gear mounts, and might have flat or drop bars. Some might even look like a mountain bike with drop bars or skinny tires. Some might even be mountain bikes! These bikes are good for riders who want to maximize comfort and ride rugged terrain. The Specialized Diverge is an extremely capable adventure style bike that would also be well-suited for the most challenging gravel races.

Between these two ends of the spectrum there are options in between.  

Gravel Tire Selection and Set-up 

Tire Selection: Tire selection will vary based on the terrain you like to ride. Rougher terrain will be more comfortable with a wider tire. For the gravel in the Roanoke area, a 40+mm tire is a good choice for most riders since we have some rougher roads. If you are sticking to areas with smoother gravel, a 35-38mm tire will work. Two of our favorite tires for gravel in this area are the Specialized Pathfinder and Maxxis Rambler.  

Tubeless or Tubes: We also really like tubeless tire set ups for gravel. Tubeless is exactly how it sounds — there is no inner tube. Instead, the tire hooks on the rim of your wheel with an airtight seal, and special sealant is inserted into the tire. With this set up, you can run lower air pressure for a smoother ride and better traction. If you do get a puncture, you can plug it with a tire plug, add more air, and continue your ride. (It’s still a good idea to carry a tube.) 

Tire inserts: You can also add tire inserts to further prevent flats. You can even ride on a flat tire with some tire inserts. Our favorite tire insert for gravel riding is CushCore. CushCore is an engineered foam insert to be mounted inside a tire. It is designed to absorb impacts, reduce vibration, and increase lateral stability. These characteristics create a more controlled, more comfortable, and faster ride.

Preparing for the Demands of Gravel Riding 

Off-road routes differ from their on-road counterparts in that it is more effort to cover the distance, off-road climbs are often steeper than the paved variety, the riding is more technical, and the conditions can be varied. Also, you might need to be prepared for the possible hike-a-bike or river crossing—you just never know what you might come across!   

This all just means that it might take you longer than you might predict to cover a certain distance, and a distance that might be comfortable for you on the road will be more challenging on gravel. 

Build your fitness 

A distance that might be comfortable for you on the road will be more challenging on gravel. If you are brand new to cycling, you might like to build your fitness on easier terrain a few days a week to start. Cardinal Bicycle offers group rides that can help you work up to longer distances and more challenging terrain.   

Be prepared to be out longer than expected 

Due to the nature of rough terrain, steep climbs, and varied road conditions, it might take you longer than you might predict to cover a certain distance. 

It's always good to be prepared with extra food and hydration. If you are in a new area, you might want to pick a shorter distance until you become comfortable with the terrain.

Be Prepared for Changing Weather Conditions 

In the mountains, the weather can change quickly. You might be sweating on a climb, but chilly at the top of a mountain, and freezing as you descend. Extra layers are always good to have—even in summer. 65 and sunny in the valley can easily change to 50 and raining at 3,500 feet—and that’s a cold ride home. 

Carry what you need to be self-sufficient  

Gravel roads are typically in remote areas and often lack cell service or places to refill your water or food. It is best to plan to be self-sufficient for the duration of your ride with the food, water, and tools you need. Have what you need to be able to fix a flat, adjust your brakes, tighten loose parts, and know how to fix a dropped chain. If you do not feel confident in these tasks, ride with others or join an organized event so you aren’t alone if something happens.

Join us at Gravel Camp!

Organized events are a great way to get familiar with a new area and find others to ride with. Cardinal has a series of Gravel Camp rides to help you explore the local area, challenge yourself, and meet new people.