WHAT IS gravel
I’m Kath Goodey, and I’ve been riding off‑road since the mid‑1990s. Back then, what we called mountain biking looked a lot like today’s gravel riding—just with worse brakes and far less forgiving geometry!
Fast forward to the first Covid lockdown. Riding became all about “no gnar and not far”—nobody wanted to end up in A&E. After one too many forest-road slogs on my Enduro bike, I bought a road bike… and loved it, until the traffic returned. Then I hated it! Around the same time, gravel curiosity began to appear in our local riding group. One by one, everyone bought a gravel bike. My FOMO kicked in, and soon enough, I had one too!
Turns out, I really enjoy cruising forest roads, cycle paths, and silky-smooth gravel trails—especially those I’ve found overseas. Being honest, Eryri is not the best gravel riding venue in the UK as its so flippin steep and rocky, but it certainly is fun and ticks the box when you fancy something different to a regular MTB ride and the thought of the turbo trainer fills you with horror!
When I Choose My Gravel Bike
I reach for my gravel bike over my Ibis Ripmo when:
It’s winter and I want a long, mellow mud-free ride.
I’m building stamina before guiding season or a big trip.
Me and my mates fancy a long, chatty café-ride on easier terrain summer or winter.
I’m chasing winter sun for a low cost without needing guiding or uplift.
I’m riding with my 85‑year‑old mum, who’s on her e‑bike—perfect pairing!
What Bike Do You Need?
There’s loads of choice, and it ultimately depends on:
The terrain
How technical your rides will be
Whether you’ll be bikepacking
If you plan to race or join rallies
You can gravel ride on a mountain bike or cyclocross bike, but you’ll likely need tweaks—slicker tyres, locked-out suspension, and luggage solutions for longer rides.
Bars & Gearing
Drop bars offer an aero advantage for racing.
Flat bars give better control on technical trails.
For hilly terrain or heavy luggage, a 1×12 MTB drivetrain is ideal.
For fast gravel or mixed-surface descents, 2×10/11/12 might work better.
Dropper posts and suspension forks are becoming more common in gravel, but if you want lots of suspension… you might just need a lightweight hardtail mountain bike!
Where to Put Your Stuff
I find backpacks and hip packs uncomfortable on a gravel bike’s more forward position. Instead, I use:
A bar bag
A seat post bag
Top tube bag
Pannier style rear luggage rack and bag
Bikepacking Bags | Waterproof UK-Made Bags
Technical Bikepacking Equipment - Tailfin Cycling
Perfect for tools, waterproofs, swim kit, and a mini first-aid stash.
Snacks go in jersey pockets or a top‑tube bag for easy munching on the move. If you are off on an overnight adventure, then you’ll need a whole lot more kit. Check out Rosie Baxendine’s website, courses and trips for all things bike packing.
Gravel Bike Choices
Pick something that:
Fits well and feels comfortable, a saddle that suits you and the riding position of a gravel bike
Has forgiving geometry suited to longer days out
Has some kind of flex/micro suspension built into frame/stem
Can take wide tyres
Has mounts for bottle cages, mudguards, and luggage
I have a Cannondale Topstone with drop bars and Kingpin frame system. A good alternative with flat bars would be the Specialized Diverge.
What to Wear
Gravel has zero uniform. Comfort is key.
My favourites include:
Cargo bib shorts or tights—thigh pockets are a dream for phone and snacks (7Mesh bib shorts are my absolute go-to). Must have an easy pee strap system.
Merino jerseys (short sleeve for summer, long sleeve for winter).
A sweat wicking T-shirt / plaid shirt depending on the look you are after!
A jacket depending on weather. Again, my personal favourite are 7Mesh Chilco or Spruce
No affiliation to 7Mesh—just kit that really works!
Advanced apparel for your best moments outdoors. | 7mesh
You can absolutely wear MTB shorts or trousers too. But a quality bib short is, in my opinion, more comfortable for long days in the saddle.
Where to Find Fellow Gravel Riders
There are loads of ways to join the community:
Facebook groups and social media communities
British Cycling: Let’s Ride & Breeze groups
Commercial trip organisers like Sisters in the Wild, Glorious Gravel, Gravel Up
For bikepacking inspiration: Rosie Baxendine
Try a Gravel Rally!
A gravel rally is a must‑try. They’re not races—they’re fun participation events where you choose your distance and enjoy a sociable, adventurous day out.
Check out:
All Terre Adventures, The amazing Bristol Rally, Inclusive community rides, coaching, and workshops
Glorious Gravel
The Gralloch
Dirty Reiver
Gravel Rocks
Raiders Gravel
Pan Celtic Gravel Rally
If you’re gravel‑curious, hopefully you’re now feeling inspired and ready to give it a go. With the right bike, comfy kit, and a sense of adventure, gravel riding opens the door to endless off‑road fun.
Words: Kath Goodey