Meet at Aberdeen Bike and Outdoors, 1101 S Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118
9am - Saddle up and ride
7am - Pre-ride:
ridewithgps.com/routes/29185234
2019 Introduction to Gravel Series
Created by: Nate Burks
Sat. April 6—Sat. October 5, 2019
Location: Various, see description
Welcome to the 2019 Gravel Series. If you are an experienced gravel rider, read to the end for pre-ride and bonus ride information. If you are new to gravel, this series is designed to take you from short and flat to long and hilly over the course of ten rides. These are "no rider left behind" rides with frequent regrouping.
There are many advantages to riding roads less traveled. Riding gravel is a great way to increase leg strength and endurance. You are guaranteed to see fewer cars. We will encounter roads with varying terrain, hills, the occasional closed road or bridge, and sometimes dogs and livestock. You will never be bored.
What to bring:
-A positive attitude. There will be times when we are suffering. Suffering ain't so bad when in the right mindset.
-Helmet
-Eye protection
-Gravel bike with 30mm+ tires, 29er, or fatbike. Road bikes are not suitable for these roads.
-Bike computer with the current week's route loaded
-Snacks, gels, or other nutrition
-Water, at least two bottles or a hydration pack for longer routes
-Lights: rear blinky required, front suggested for fog and rain
-Tools, flat repair kit
-Headlight and/or helmet light for rides that begin before sun-up or will last after sun down
-Change of clothes for after the ride (in case things get messy)
Find the the routes (01 through 10) and dates below. All rides depart at 9am.
If you are an experienced gravel rider or have a high level of fitness and fortitude, there will be a preride departing at 7am for rides in April through August. This will get you ready for the next level, the bonus rides in September and October. The bonus rides are much more difficult, both in distance and terrain. There are steep, long climbs and equally steep descents that will challenge your bike handling abilities. We will encounter all forms of gravel, from the smooth packed stuff from Michigan to the chunky and sometimes loose gravel around Mohican.
Find the the bonus routes and dates below. All rides depart at 7am.
