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Gravel biking: 6 reasons to get started now

April 15, 2021

Vélo de gravelle : 6 raisons pour s’y mettre dès maintenant

Here are 6 excellent reasons to take up gravel biking right away!

1. We breathe clean air.

Of course, most gravel roads in Quebec are located in rural areas, at least an hour's drive from the city. Many of them are former logging roads or country lanes, while others were built specifically for tourism development. That said, on a gravel bike, you're almost guaranteed to find yourself in the woods or in the middle of a field.

Parlee Chebacco

Gravel biking: 6 reasons to get started now

Photo credit: Justin Knotzke

2. We divide the number of cars by one thousand.

Indeed, being more remote, most gravel roads in Quebec see far less traffic than paved roads. Furthermore, you'll improve the air quality you breathe and enjoy greater peace and quiet and increased safety, at least with regard to accidents involving road vehicles.

Photo credit: Justin Knotzke

3. We enjoyed breathtaking scenery.

On a gravel or adventure bike, you ride a little slower; the focus is more on the journey than the destination. Moreover, the scenery is there to enhance the experience, as the lush nature of the lakes, rivers, and mountains invites contemplation. And for nature lovers like you, the chance to appreciate the grandeur and tranquility of these places only amplifies the feeling of well-being experienced during the ride.

Photo credit: Enve Composites

4. We are fortunate to appreciate extraordinary flora and fauna.

Indeed, our close proximity to nature, the absence of cars and therefore noise, often leads to extraordinary encounters with the local wildlife. Of course, you must always respect their habitat and never feed them. Furthermore, your bicycle can easily become the most efficient and least expensive way to enjoy your photo safari!

Enve G23 Gravel Wheels

Photo credit: Enve Composites

5. We drive on roads in better condition than our asphalt roads.

Indeed, many gravel roads or forest paths are very well maintained and with a suitable bike, adequate tire pressure and good positioning, you will not finish your rides in worse shape than after a good 100km of road, head down in the handlebars.

Photo credit: Justin Knotzke

6. You become a better cyclist.

For many, gravel biking is a great way to improve. Wondering why? The answer is simple: a loose surface like gravel or dirt demands superior riding technique. You'll need to maintain good traction on climbs, have a better feel for the bike's behavior in corners, and increase your mobility on rougher sections. Furthermore, riding with 38c tires at 40psi on a gravel road requires significantly more effort than riding with 25c or 28c tires at 90psi on a paved road for a similar distance. This will also increase your ability to sustain a higher level of effort for longer.