Riding gravel whatever the weather!

Gravel riding has a large number of devotees thanks to its versatility and spirit of adventure. It’s a great way to get off the beaten track and explore an area, meaning you can easily find yourself out in the middle of nowhere when the weather changes or comes in! If you’re heading off for the day on your bike, or are planning a multi day trip, then knowing how to adapt to changing conditions is the key to making the most of your adventure.

So to help you prepare of any eventuality we’ve put together our top tips for dealing with all kinds of weather, including rain, cold, wind and heat, as well as whatever else mother nature might throw at you!

1. Why does weather play such a big part in gravel riding?

As soon as you jump on your gravel bike the weather can play havoc with your ride, in terms of your comfort, safety and performance. Trails react differently with changing conditions just as tarmac can, though even less predictably.

• In the dry : earthen and gravel trails become dusty which can reduce both grip and visibility. Dust gets everywhere including in your chain and on your brakes, affecting their performance.

• In the wet : dirt turns to mud which can have you sliding all over the place, necessitating slower speeds and more precision in your bike handling.

• Wind and heat : often the most energy sapping conditions, both mentally and physically. Riding into a

  strong headwind is exhausting, and riding in extreme heat risks dehydration quickly if you don’t keep on top of it.

So thinking ahead and a adding bit of preparation according to the weather forecast is crucial for any gravellers heading out for a ride.

2. Choose the right kit

The Essentials, whatever the weather.

Your kit is your first line of defence against having to abandon your ride, so choose wisely! Here’s the essentials:

• Good tyres : having the right tyres for the conditions can be key to staying on your bike! When conditions are changeable (like in winter) opt for multipurpose tyres that offer good grip, and if its really muddy go for more knobbles that won’t get clogged up.

• Technical clothing : thin breathable layes will allow you to get your body temperature just right throughout your ride. Technical kit like merino wool base layers and Gore-tex shells are ideal for warmth and both wind and waterproof layers.

• Waterproof bags : you’ll need a good waterproof bag on your bike to carry the extra clutter associated with riding whatever the weather like these from Restrap. They will protect your dry cloths, phone and emergency snacks from the elements.

Riding in the rain

• good waterproof and windproof jacket is your best friend here. Make sure there are some air vents to open (that won’t let the rain in!) when you’re putting in more of an effort.

• Gloves and shoe covers to keep your hands and feet warm even when wet. Neoprene style works well here.

• Fit a mudguard to both front and back wheels to avoid being sprayed by cold water the whole way through your ride!

• Look after your bike with a chain lube thats specially designed for wet conditions to keep you pedalling smoothly.

Staying warm in the cold

• Invest in warm thermal gloves (making sure you can still control your bike!) and a thin fleecy hat or cap for under your helmet to keep the dreaded brain freeze at bay.

• Layering up is the best way to stay warm when the mercury drops, with a breathable base layer, a warm mid layer that will keep you warm even when damp, and a wind and waterproof outer shell.

• Don’t forget glasses with clear lenses to protect your eyes from the wind, rain and mud.

Dealing with the heat

• Wear thin and extremely breathable clothes. If the sun is really strong a light coloured and long sleeved top will protect your skin much better than suncream mixed with sweat!

• Use a high SPF sun cream that’s sweat resistant and re-apply regularly.

• Take as water on your ride as you can carry - ideally 2 litres - in either thermal or light coloured bottles or a water bladder system, or both!

3. Before your ride

Check the weather forecast

It’s a good to get into the habit of checking the weather before every ride from a reliable source, not just your iPhone! In France we use Meteo France, and YR the Norwegian service which works well across Europe. BBC weather is also reliable all around the world. There’s also some more specific forecast services that handily focus on weather for sport, like Windy and Rain Today a new app to download.

Choose a route with the weather in mind

• Wet weather : choose to ride smoother more stable trails, like forest and gravel tracks that will help you avoid any mud baths.

• Dry weather : build your route by connecting water refill points! Prioritise places you’ll be able to rehydrate.

• Wind : try to plan routes that will provide you with some shelter, especially from soul destroying headwinds, like forest trails.

Plan where to take breaks and find shelter

Check the map beforehand to find potential shelter in case the weather turns - like cafes, huts, shelters and even natural options like dense forests etc.

4. Adapt your riding to the conditions

On dry trails be careful of too much dust!

• Try to ride smoothly, and keep your body relaxed on your bike. Avoid sudden braking as much as possible.

• If theres a lot of dust, keep your bike’s drivetrain as clean as possible and use a dry lube to avoid the combo of lube and dust turning into sandpaper on your chain.

In the wet ride carefully!

• Ride a bit more slowly, especially the descents, and look as far ahead as possible to manage your speed as efficiently as possible.

• Try to stay centred on your bike so that if the wheels do skid a bit you are still in balance. You’ll maintain grip best by using smooth gentle movements and braking as any sudden movements will put you off balance.

In the wind change your position!

• Ride with a group if you can to rotate who takes the brunt of the wind and share the load.

• You can drop your shoulders by bending your arms a bit to lower your position to be more aerodynamic.
  

5. Check out our bike trips, suitable for every season!

At GravelUp, we organize all-inclusive gravel bike trips in France and Europe, designed to let you ride with peace of mind, no matter the season or the weather.

Our services include:

• An experienced guide and team who can adapt each day’s route depending on conditions.

• Personalised kit advice and bike handling tips for different conditions.

• A Destination Manager with a support van who is always on hand in case of mechanical problems and sudden storms etc.

Gravel riding is an adventure, whatever the weather! For sure the weather plays a part in how your ride might shape up, and this is all part of the fun. With a bit of planning, the right kit and some good habits you’ll be happily riding in all conditions and making the most of each and every moment.

Are you ready for your next adventure? Explore all our organised trips with everything included so that you can relax and enjoy the freedom of riding while we deal with all the little details.

Find out about all our gravel trips in our Trip Directory here.