Explore the #gravellesstraveled

 
 
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Ride all the Bikes

ERTC really should include a ‘silent g’ somewhere in it’s title. Many of our club members have embraced cycling’s latest (or oldest?) form or riding, - gravel, including many of our Women of ERTC.

What makes gravel great?

  • Very few cars, and the ones we see drive by with friendly waves, big smiles, and often give plenty of room so we have the whole road

  • Wide open spaces, in scenery and in proximity to other riders. For those new to group riding, the space offered on gravel can be more comfortable than a large road ride

  • Variety! There are only so many roads around Edmonton fit for cycling…but add in gravel and the options are now endless. Explore the Gwynne Valley, Strawberry Creek, a multitude of hidden gem lakes (Coal, Wizard, Battle, and many more), and many other beautiful areas you didn’t know existed.

  • Training. There is somewhat less drafting on gravel and outside of significant downhills you are required to put out constant and consistent power. This can be a fantastic addition to your training plan, or simply a funner way to get fitter, because honestly who really enjoys intervals around the Research Park all the time? It is especially helpful for triathletes and time trialists.

Formal and informal rides/events/races

With options ranging from formal ABA sanctioned gravel races (Ghost of Gravel) to large formal gravel group rides, and even informal meet-ups organized between members - our season is peppered with lots of great opportunities to explore a myriad of ‘Alberta pave’ routes. Whether new, or seasoned gravel expert, there are usually different pace/distance options built into each ride, making gravel a really accessible option to mix things up a bit.

For info on all sorts of gravel ride options, formal and informal, be sure to check out the Alberta Gravel Cycling Facebook Group

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What do I need to do gravel?

ANY bike is a gravel bike. Yes, you can ride your road bike on gravel. However, for best handling and comfort there are some recommendations:

  • A cyclo-cross or gravel specific bike with at least 32mm tires. Wider is usually better, especially on deep or soft gravel. Slick of “filetread” tires are fine for most gravel. Knobs are helpful if conditions are muddy or wet.

  • If going to a particularly remote area a water pack (or extra bottle cage if your frame allows), water filter and extra tools for repairs would be a good precaution.

  • Some sort of GPS navigation device. Don’t count on always having cell reception or that every small country road will have visible signage.

  • Enough nutrition and water for longer than you expect - gravel can be slower than road. Plan to be 20% longer than the same distance on paved roads.

  • Tunes and snacks! It’s often a more relaxed and chill atmosphere where road side elaborate snack breaks and breaking into song mid-ride can be normal occurrences.

  • Some of us like to race gravel and smash the pace… that’s ok too!