Gravel biking is an adaptable and exciting style of cycling. The challenges in a gravel bike ride range from dirt roads to muddy trails and rocky ascents. Steven Rindner points out that no matter whether one is a beginner or a cyclist desiring to enhance their skills, it is imperative to know the right techniques that help ride a gravel bike more efficiently and safely across varying terrains.
Steven Rindner highlights a few gravel bike riding techniques
Gravel biking is a great way to escape traffic, explore new places and immerse oneself in nature. However, before gearing up for a gravel adventure, it is imperative to hone one’s skills. The right tips and techniques would help cyclists to enjoy any surface or scenario they may encounter on their ride.
- Stay balanced and ready: To ensure stability and control while riding on a gravel bike it is imperative to maintain the right body position. Cyclists should have a neutral stance, and keep their body relaxed and centered over the bike. They should stand a bit over the pedals with the elbows bent, while distributing weight between the saddle and handlebars evenly. Such a posture allows cyclists to absorb shocks from uneven surfaces without losing balance. Adopting a more aggressive position is necessary for descents. Cyclists should shift their weight slightly back to keep the front wheel light. This posture prevents the cyclists from being thrown forward when trying to navigate downhill. During climbs, cyclists should move their weight forward and stay seated to maintain traction on the rear wheel. Consistent power and steady cadence are important to efficiently handling steep or technical uphill sections.
- Handling rocky climbs: Patience and control are necessary for navigating rocky terrains. Cyclists need to choose their line carefully by identifying the smoothest path through the rocks. Looking ahead would help properly plan the route and steer clear of potential hazards. Cyclists should stay seated and keep their weight centered as standing may reduce rear-wheel traction on uneven surfaces. Steady pedal strokes and low gear to maintain momentum should be used over the rocks.
- Descending steep gravel paths: It can be a challenge to descend steep gravel slopes for newbies, and therefore it is imperative that they pay attention to a few things. They need to apply both brakes evenly for braking control but prioritize feathering the rear brake to prevent skidding. When it comes to body position, it is better to shift the weight a bit back, bend the elbows and keep the eyes focused ahead in order to spot upcoming turns or obstacles. This posture helps maintain balance and traction. Cyclists should move the gravel bike by keeping a light grip on the handlebars, and allow the bike to flow over the terrain. This lowers the risk of losing control, and also helps tires to more smoothly navigate uneven surfaces.
As Steven Rindner mentions, even though gravel biking can be very thrilling, it also requires cyclists to adapt to varying conditions and surfaces. They need to master important techniques and terrain handling skills to improve overall gravel riding efficiency.
