Steven Rindner Briefly Talks About Gravel Biking

Gravel biking, also known as gravel riding, is an increasingly popular form of cycling. It combines elements of road- and mountain-biking, largely comprising of distance riding over unpaved roads. As per Steven Rindner, no matter whether it is gravel roads or dirt roads, trails must consist of un-surfaced and non-technical roads to qualify for gravel biking. As cities largely have paved roads today, the best trails for gravel biking can ideally be found in suburban or rural areas. Hence, people going for gravel biking get the chance to explore a variety of scenic sites, as they set off for an adventure on the beaten paths.

Steven Rindner provides an introduction to gravel biking

In the simplest terms, gravel biking can be described as riding on unpaved roads. Much like mountain biking, it involves cycling on a variety of terrains, ranging from chunky gravel and wide-open dirt roads to smooth trails. However, much like road biking, one can move swiftly while gravel biking, without getting over their head on challenging terrain.

The term “gravel cycling” has been around for a decade or so. However, people have been riding off-pavement ever since bicycles were invented.  A classic race started in 1896 in Paris-Roubaix, where riders rode more than 150 miles on cobblestone and gravel roads. Today gravel bikes are a rapidly growing industry in multiple parts of the world, including the United States.  As per the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are about 2.2 million miles of unpaved roads across the nation.  One can find logging routes in the Rocky Mountains, and farm roads in the Midwest that are well-suited for gravel biking. Moreover, there are also converted railway tracks along the East Coast, and certain long-forgotten oil roads in the desert Southwest. No matter which place one chooses for gravel riding, each of them provides a unique, and exciting experience,

Canal paths, forest roads, old wagon trails and more can be perfect for exploring enchanting surroundings through gravel riding. This form of cycling is known to add an element of thrill to the typical cycling experience. In fact, it takes the cycling experience to a whole new level, and enables riders to make some exhilarating discoveries and wonderful memories. The stunning scenery along the way makes gravel biking among the most aesthetically pleasing riding adventures one can explore.

A classic race started in 1896 in Paris-Roubaix, where riders rode more than 150 miles on cobblestone and gravel roads. Today gravel bikes are a rapidly growing industry in multiple parts of the world, including the United States.  As per the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are about 2.2 million miles of unpaved roads across the nation.  One can find logging routes in the Rocky Mountains, and farm roads in the Midwest that are well-suited for gravel biking. Moreover, there are also converted railway tracks along the East Coast, and certain long-forgotten oil roads in the desert Southwest. No matter which place one chooses for gravel riding, each of them provides a unique, and exciting experience.

As per Steven Rindner, both experienced cyclists and new riders alike can try out gravel biking. Many people do really like riding on dirt, have fun getting off the road and simply feel the adventure. Moreover, it allows riders to be flexible. They can ride on the pavement, dirt roads and even some trails. Some may cruise for days on the smooth, rolling back roads, while others can power up steep climbs to wildflower-strewn meadows. Riders who have a competitive spirit can always take part in the various gravel races that come up in almost every state. Unlike typical road races, which generally are very competitive and hard to enter, gravel races tend to have more casual participants.