Gravel Cycling 101
Fueling For Your Ride
Endurance gravel rides and races can be incredibly demanding, both mentally and physically. To perform at your best, it's essential to fuel properly before, during, and after the ride. Here are some tips on how to fuel for your endurance gravel ride or race.
Before the ride:
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Hydrate: Start hydrating the day before your ride by drinking plenty of water. Aim to drink at least 16 ounces of water or electrolyte drink 2-3 hours before the ride.
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Carbs: Consume a carbohydrate-rich meal 2-3 hours before the ride. This will give your body enough time to digest the food and convert it into energy.
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Caffeine: A cup of coffee can help you feel alert and focused during your ride. However, be careful not to overdo it as too much caffeine can cause jitters and anxiety.
During the ride:
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Carbs: To maintain energy levels during the ride, aim to consume 30-60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. This can come from energy bars, gels, or sports drinks.
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Hydrate: Drink water or an electrolyte drink every 15-20 minutes. Don't wait until you feel thirsty to hydrate as this could lead to dehydration.
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Protein: If you're riding for more than 3 hours, consider adding some protein to your fueling plan. This could be in the form of a protein bar or a sandwich with lean protein.
Storage apparel:
When it comes to endurance gravel rides, having the right cycling apparel can make all the difference. Look for jerseys and shorts with plenty of pockets to store your fueling essentials. Some jerseys even have built-in hydration systems, which can be a game-changer during long rides.
To help you find the perfect cycling apparel for your next endurance gravel ride, visit https://ozarkcycling.com where we offer a wide range of cycling apparel options twith great storage features.
Fueling properly for your endurance gravel ride or race is crucial to your success. By following these tips and investing in the right cycling apparel, you'll be well on your way to achieving your goals.
Why Cycling With a Hip Pack Makes Sense
Cycling is an excellent form of exercise that can help you stay in shape and improve your cardiovascular health. If you are an avid cyclist, you may be familiar with the importance of carrying essential items while you ride. These items may include your phone, wallet, keys, water bottle, and snacks. One way to carry these items is by using a hip pack. A hip pack is a small bag that you wear around your waist, and it can be a convenient alternative to a traditional backpack or messenger bag.
Cycling with a hip pack has many benefits. First, it allows you to carry essential items without adding extra weight or bulk to your bike. This can be especially helpful if you prefer to ride without a backpack or if you have a small frame that makes it difficult to wear a backpack comfortably. The hip pack sits snugly on your hips, so it won't bounce around or cause any discomfort while you ride.
Second, a hip pack can help you stay organized. Many hip packs have multiple pockets and compartments, which allow you to separate your items and keep them easily accessible. For example, you can keep your phone and wallet in one pocket, your keys in another, and your snacks and water bottle in a separate compartment. This can make it easier to find what you need while you ride, so you don't have to stop and rummage through your bag.
Third, a hip pack can be a stylish accessory. Many cycling brands offer hip packs in a range of colors and designs, so you can find one that matches your personal style. You can also use a hip pack for other activities, such as hiking or running, so it can be a versatile addition to your gear collection.
When choosing a hip pack for cycling, there are a few factors to consider. First, you'll want to make sure that the hip pack is the right size for your needs. Some hip packs are small and compact, while others are larger and can hold more items. Think about what you typically carry while you ride, and choose a hip pack that can accommodate those items.
You'll also want to make sure that the hip pack is comfortable to wear. Look for a hip pack that has adjustable straps, so you can adjust the fit to your body. You may also want to look for a hip pack that has a padded back or waistband, which can help prevent discomfort or chafing.
In conclusion, cycling with a hip pack can be a convenient and stylish way to carry essential items while you ride. By choosing the right hip pack for your needs and ensuring that it is comfortable to wear, you can enjoy all the benefits that come with this accessory. So, next time you go for a ride, consider trying out a hip pack to see how it can improve your cycling experience.
What Tire Width Should I Use for Gravel Biking?
The width of tires you should use for gravel biking depends on the type of gravel roads you will be riding on and your personal riding style.
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For gravel roads that are relatively smooth and well-maintained, a tire width of 28-35mm is a good choice. These tires will provide a good balance of traction, comfort, and rolling resistance.
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For gravel roads that are rougher and more technical, a tire width of 35-45mm is a good choice. These tires will provide more traction and stability on rough terrain, but may have more rolling resistance.
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For extremely rough gravel roads or off-road adventures, tires width of 45mm or wider may be a good choice. These tires will provide maximum traction and stability but have more rolling resistance.
It's worth noting that wider tires provide more comfort and traction but can slow you down on smooth gravel roads. Narrower tires will roll faster on smooth gravel roads but may not provide as much comfort and traction on rough terrain. It's also important to consider the width of your rims and the size of your frame when choosing tire width.
Ultimately, the best tire width for you will depend on your riding style and the type of gravel roads you will be riding on. It's a good idea to experiment with different tire widths to see what works best for you. Some riders prefer to run tubeless tires to increase puncture resistance and reduce rolling resistance.
Why is gravel cycling so popular?
Gravel cycling has become increasingly popular in recent years for a few reasons:
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Variety: Gravel cycling allows riders to explore a wider variety of terrain than road cycling or mountain biking. Gravel roads and trails can take riders through beautiful rural landscapes and off the beaten path.
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Adventure: Gravel cycling is often seen as a more adventurous form of cycling, as it allows riders to venture into remote areas and discover new routes.
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Challenge: Gravel roads and trails can be more challenging than paved roads, providing a greater sense of accomplishment for riders.
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Accessibility: Gravel cycling is less intimidating than mountain biking and doesn't require as much specialized equipment, making it more accessible to a wider range of riders.
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Community: Gravel cycling has a growing community of enthusiasts, with organized events, races and gatherings that add to the social aspect of the sport.
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Comfort: Many gravel bikes are designed with more upright position and wider tires, which make them more comfortable for long rides.
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Versatility: Gravel bikes can handle pavement, dirt, gravel, and light singletrack, which makes them ideal for mixed-surface adventures.
All in all, gravel cycling provides an exciting and challenging way to explore the outdoors, and it has the added bonus of being accessible to a wide range of riders.
