March 23, 2026
Gravel racing has quickly become one of the most exciting and demanding disciplines in cycling. Not only do gravel routes have less traffic but they also include an extra technical challenge which can add a bit of fun. The cycling calendar has numerous races/mass participation events which are a great physical challenge as well as a way to discover some countryside. Events like Hell of the North, Paris to Ancaster, Scrappy Badger, Screaming Squirrel, The Eager Beaver, Unbound Gravel, and the UCI Gravel Series - OG Classique are all a good test of fitness but to really enjoy them proper preparation is key.
The difference between an enjoyable ride and a frustrating one often comes down to how well you are prepared and how well your bike is set up.
At Mariposa Bicycles, we’ve spent decades building bikes designed for all conditions. Here’s how to prepare your bike for gravel racing and riding so you can enjoy the day on the dirt:
Study the Course (and Pre-Ride if Possible)
Every gravel race is unique, and understanding the terrain is critical.
- Paris to Ancaster: punchy climbs, mud sectors, farm lanes
- Hell of the North, Scrappy Badger, Screaming Squirrel, Eager Beaver: rolling terrain, fast gravel, variable surfaces
- Unbound Gravel: sharp flint, long distances, wind exposure
- UCI Gravel Series -OG Classique: fast, tactical, mixed terrain
If possible, pre-ride key sections of the course. Even a short reconnaissance ride can help you:
- Choose the right tire
- Refine pacing strategy
- Identify technical hazards
If you can’t pre-ride, study GPX files (ideally on Ride with GPS or another platform that allows you to breakdown the different sections of the race by surface, climbs, descents, etc), race reports, and past footage. Reach out to friends who have experience in these events and / or have pre-ridden the course for advice. Our staff at Mariposa Bicycles have experience with a number of the gravel events and are happy to advise.
Drivetrain Preparation:
Clean Drivetrain = Efficient & Reliable
A well-prepared drivetrain can save watts and prevent mechanical issues.
👉 Shop drivetrain care:
Why Wax Your Chain?
- Lower friction → improved efficiency
- Cleaner drivetrain → less wear which lengthens the life of chain, cassette and chain rings.
- Better performance in dry conditions
Basic Prep Checklist
- Deep clean drivetrain
- Apply hot wax (Silca system recommended)
- Inspect chain, cassette, and derailleur
- Have a wax based lubricant on hand to re-apply if wet and extend the life of your wax
For muddy or wet races, plan for additional maintenance or backup lubrication strategies
Choose the Right Tires (One of your Most Important Decisions)
Your tires will have the biggest impact on your performance.
Tire Selection Guidelines
- Fast, dry courses → 35–40mm semi-slick tires (Rene Herse Bon Jon Pass or Barlow Pass Endurance, Continental Terra Speed, Maxxis Rambler or René Herse Corkscrew)
- Mixed terrain (Ontario gravel) → 38–45mm all-round tread (Continental Terra Speed, Maxxis Rambler or René Herse Corkscrew Climb)
- Rough / sharp (Unbound) → 40–45mm durable casing (René Herse Endurance or Endurance Plus Corkscrew Pass, Steilacoom Pass or Hurricane Ridge)
- Wet / muddy → aggressive tread, more volume (René Herse Steilacoom Pass, René Herse Hurricane Ridge or Continental Terra Trail)
Many of the bikes we build up in the store have premium gravel tires like René Herse or Continental tires, offering the ideal balance of speed, grip, and durability.
It's key to choose tires for the worst conditions you expect—not the best.
Dial Your Tire Pressure
Getting your tire pressure right is one of the simplest ways to improve performance as it'll affect grip, comfort, handling and rolling resistance.
👉 Use the Silca Tire Pressure Calculator:
https://silca.cc/pages/pro-tire-pressure-calculator
Why PSI Matters
- Too high → reduced traction, harsh ride
- Too low → instability, risk of rim damage
- Optimal → faster rolling, more grip, better comfort
What Determines PSI
- Total system weight (rider + bike + gear)
- Tire width
- Terrain conditions
Most gravel riders fall between 30–45 PSI, but the correct pressure depends on your exact setup.
PRO Tip-> invest in a tire pressure gauge, as they are more accurate than most pump displays and you can easily keep in your pocket and adjust pressure as conditions change the morning of the race or out on the course, as if it starts to rain and gets muddy, you may need to reduce your air pressure for better grip. Another worthwhile investment is a mini electric tire inflator in case you get a flat tire or need to increase your tire pressure while out on the course. Silca and Muc-off offer the best in class.
Choose Wheels for Speed and Durability
Your wheels must balance performance with reliability.
👉 Shop wheel upgrades:
Recommended Gravel Wheel Options
- ENVE AR40, ZIPP XPLR SW, Shimano GRX Carbon → aero + durable + great price / quality ratio
- Zipp 303 series → lightweight, versatile, aero + great price / quality ratio
- Princeton CarbonWorks GRIT & Zipp 353 NSW → premium aerodynamic performance, lightweight
- Shimano GRX alloy & HED G / DT Swiss Alloy -> Durable, inexpensive
On gravel, durability also contributes to speed. A wheel that survives rough terrain is always faster than one that doesn’t. With hookless rims, pay close attention to manufacturer tire pressure guidelines and tire compatibility for safety.
Fueling Strategy: Start Early, Stay Consistent
Gravel racing requires a steady fueling strategy as there is less slipstream and the required effort is more constant. Make sure you're eating/consuming carbohydrates before you feel the need to eat. Eat between technical sectors when less bike handling focus is required.
👉 Shop nutrition:
Recommended Approach
- Hydration Drink Mix → electrolytes + steady hydration
- High-Carb Drink Mix → ideal for longer events
- Energy Chews → convenient calories during efforts
Key Targets
- Start fueling within the first 30 minutes
- Aim for 60–90g of carbohydrates per hour (although in extreme heat, sometimes carbohydrate concentration needs to be adjusted down for hydration)
- Hydrate consistently—even in cooler conditions
What to Wear: Prepare for the Elements
Gravel racing often means unpredictable weather—especially in Ontario. Look at the forecast and plan accordingly. Being too cold or too hot can make or break your performance and your overall experience. If it's cold at the start, it is always best to layer so that you have the option to peel off clothing if the weather improves. Likewise, if it's dry at the start, but rain is in the forecast, slip a rain jacket or vest in your pocket.
👉 Explore apparel:
Key Considerations
- Layering is essential → arm warmers, vest, rain jacket (make sure your rain jacket is a close/aero fit and does not flap in the wind.
- Protection → gloves, eyewear
- Aerodynamics affect performance → choose a aero-fit kit that isn't blowing int he wind increasing drag.
Rule of thumb:
Prepare for the worst-case conditions, not the forecast.
Preparation Builds Confidence
Gravel racing rewards riders who prepare carefully.
When your setup is dialed:
- You ride more efficiently
- You reduce risk of mechanicals
- You stay focused when it matters most
Understand the course. Choose the right tires. Dial your pressure. Fuel consistently. Prepare for anything.
Here are some gravel bikes we currently have in stock:
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