I'm signing up for the Real West Gravel event in March.
It's 67.7 miles and 4500ft elevation.
I've never done an organized event like this before. Can anyone shed some light on what I should expect? What should I bring?
I'm going to be switching over to tubeless before the event. I'll be riding 650b wheels with 2.1" tires. Geared 1×12 with 38t up front and 11-52t in the back.
by Silver-Spread1408
2 Comments
make sure you’ve got at least one test ride with your new tubeless setup before the event! you don’t want to be figuring out sealant issues when you’re 40 miles in with all that elevation.
Because the event is in March, the big variable will be the weather. Last year, it rained for the days leading up to the event and on-and-off on the day of. The course was a mud pit — your set-up should be good if conditions are similar next year. Make sure you’re dressed accordingly.
There are aid stations along the course that will supply fuel and bike maintenance. That includes wash stations if the mud is so thick it starts to gum up drivetrains. Most riders will wear a hydration pack, but it’s not strictly necessary.
The long course is a big ride, but not overly long. Make sure you fuel well and bring an emergency repair kit if you need to limp to one of the aid stations: dynaplugs, pump/CO2, etc.
Otherwise, it’s a good time! Even if it rains. Lodging in Pendleton can be kinda thin, so I’d book a hotel or bnb early