02/10/2026
🚴 REAL FITNESS GRAVEL CREW… 615 All Stars 🌟
Less traffic. More adventure.
We’ve been enjoying gravel riding for a while now… and I reckon a few more triathletes would love it.. 👍
So I’m planning a 2-hour introduction to gravel riding, on a Saturday—date to be confirmed in October
There’s still a proper place for the turbo over winter. Specific sessions, exact watts, controlled zones… that work stays in the plan.
But a weekend gravel ride brings something different. Fresh air, less time around traffic, good company, and developing the skills to handle your bike on different surfaces.
And it’s more than your legs working. Your upper body and core help keep you balanced and controlled as the ground changes beneath you 👌
You don’t need an expensive bike.
My first gravel bike cost just £250—a Cannondale Topstone with an aluminium frame. It got me out riding and enjoying it… that’s what matters 👍
A suitable mountain bike or hybrid could also get you started. Some older road bikes may work with wider tyres for gentle gravel—provided there’s enough clearance and the setup is suitable. Ask me before buying anything.
A couple of setup tips:
✅ Consider a tubeless setup with sealant, or compatible sealant for suitable inner tubes. The right option depends on your tyres, wheels and tubes—I can advise.
✅ If you ride clipped in, switching to SPD mountain-bike style pedals, cleats and shoes makes sense. Recessed cleats and grippy soles make walking easier when you need to hop off. Comfortable on flat pedals? Start with those.
Our first ride will mix paths, gravel, road and compacted mud, just to get a feel for it. We’ll choose suitable terrain for the conditions and keep the pace steady, with coaching stops along the way.
We’ll work on:
• Bike setup and tyre pressures
• Body position and staying relaxed
• Braking and cornering
• Choosing your line
• Building confidence on different surfaces
REAL FITNESS & 615 coached athletes—fancy joining the gravel crew? Drop me a message.
Let’s get some winter miles in 👊
