Struggle Gravel Bike Set-Up

Here we explain what to expect from a Struggle gravel route so you can set up your steed accordingly.

 Get Your Gravel Bike Set Up For The Terrain 

Gravel riding opens you to a whole new world of cinder tracks, forest paths, moorland bridleways and much more.

To gain maximum enjoyment and performance when escaping from the asphalt, you need to consider the correct bike set-up for the terrain under your tyres. 

Gearing

Nowadays gravel bikes have progressed by taking cues from the MTB world; making gravel riders capable of exploring unchartered terrain like our Borderlands Gravel and Moors Gravel route. 

Big Cassette! 

Struggle gravel routes feature some challenging gravel climbs with some short, steep ascents and loose gravel shooting tracks leading up and over the moors. Lower gearing options will be the difference between riding or hiking these first few ascents. It wouldn’t be a Struggle without some challenging climbs would it!

1x or 2x

While many gravel events feature miles and miles of flat fire tracks that you can speed down with road bike gearing, Struggle gravel aren't that!

If you’re questioning your one-by, fear not. We’ve tested the route on both a Scott Addict one-by (with 10-44 cassette) and a Scott Addict two-by (11-34 cassette) and never really used the big ring!

There's flatter terrain on top of the moors and down descents, but you wouldn’t be at a disadvantage without a big ring! 

 

Brakes

This is simple! Disc Brakes all day! Whether you ride on a gravel, MTB or cross bike, you’ll need the confidence and control of disc brakes while descending down shooting tracks with loose gravel. We don’t recommend rocking up on a rim-brake bike!

Tyre Width 

Wide tyres will allow you better control when climbing and descending on loose gravel tracks and (potentially wet) grass and mud. Nowadays we see riders move up to 50mm tyres.

When considering the bike you’ll be riding you need to ensure your frameset has clearance for wide tyres. We don't recommend riding a cross bike. You need to be able to run wide tyres. Our recommendation is 45mm tyres.

Our Scott Addicts are kitted out with Schwalbe G-One Bite Performance 45 mm tyres, allowing us to smash over the trickiest of terrain with confidence.Tyre Tread

Alongside tyre width, tread is also important. Consider the Schwalbe G-One Bite Performance tyre; it offers deep lugs that are widespread to improve grip on loose gravel and sheds mud easily.

Shallower tread with a closer tread pattern might allow for a faster ride but only on hard-packed and dry tracks and trails. Don't forget, we're in Yorkshire, not Girona!

Tyre Pressure

Wider tyres allows you to run lower pressure, offering more control, comfort and rolling resistance. However, too-low pressure may cause poor handling, potential punctures, and require extra effort.

Tyre pressure is personal and also depends on riding style and rider weight. Therefore we recommend practicing what works for you. However a starting point is a tyre pressure calculator.  It's useful to be precise, but for a guide we'd recommend between 25-35psi for this type of terrain (depending on body weight) and we tend to 'air' on the lower side. 

Pedals

Flat and fast courses allow riders to use their road pedals and shoes as they’re not often dismounting.

However, there’s plenty of sections in a Struggle gravel route where you need to be ready to unclip if required.

Getting back on the bike on loose gravel needs speed and ease, therefore SPDs are essential. We’ve tried Struggle gravel on road shoes and pedals and won’t be doing it again!

Bonus Tweaks  

Accessories

As well as speed and control, nutrition is just as important in ensuring you complete a Struggle gravel ride in the best shape possible.

Consider adding a top tube or handle bar bag or handle bar bag to allow easy access to bars and gels. Ensure you have two bottle cages on your bike. Or why not try a gravel hydration pack. 

Finally, ensure you have space on your cockpit for a GPS device. While the route is signposted at junctions, its important to be able to navigate self-sufficiently when cycling in remote locations. 

If you have any questions about your bike set up feel free to get in touch: hq@ridethestruggle.com. If you haven't already, make sure you sign up to Struggle gravel event.