How to Get Started Riding Gravel

Having a gravel-specific bike is great, but really any bike can do. Point being, don’t sweat if all you have is your mountain bike. The important part is you’re out on the bike having a great day. I personally ride the Liv Devote, which is a gravel-specific bike. I love this bike because no matter what the terrain, the Liv Devote is up for the challenge. I have tackled single track, roads, greenways, sandy roads, dirt roads, gravel roads, and even the rockiest of roads on this bike. Plus, it’s fit for bikepacking with its ability to hold racks and extra bottles.

Bring the usual riding essentials. Even though gravel is less technical than mountain biking, flats and other mechanicals do happen, so come prepared. I opt for a saddle bag, handlebar bag, or frame bag to carry my tools. My go-to tool right now is a plug for tires. If you run tubeless tires, a puncture can easily be fixed by throwing a plug in. I also fill my bags up with plenty of snacks. Having a handlebar bag or frame bag gives you the option to carry a variety of snacks that usually your jersey pockets limit you from carrying. For example, sometimes I pack a bag of salty chips. Another handy thing to carry in your bags are extra layers. In the fall, winter and spring sometimes the temperature calls for a jacket or extra gloves at the top of the mountain. The ultimate goal with gear is to be  prepared to enjoy a long day in the woods, rather than think of gravel rides as another focused training ride to smash out.

Don’t take gravel riding too seriously or worry about getting it perfect right out of the gate. Come as you are, with the bike you’re comfortable on, and go find some fun roads to go exploring on. Take your time, and enjoy taking the leap into gravel.