How to prepare a bike for the first gravel race

Start from the track and the rules

Look at the coverage, climb, technical areas, weather forecast and the distance between food points. Find out if your bike type is allowed and if it belongs to a separate category. For orientation there is gravel starts in the calendar, but take the final terms from the organizer.

On The page of the "Tsar Grader" study the specific distance and rules of the desired year. For another start, re-check the mandatory equipment and assistance on the track: a single "gravel set standard" does not replace the regulations.

Tires: coverage, clearance and compatibility

Choose a pattern and volume for real conditions. On a hard dry grader and loose wet ground, the tasks differ. Do not put the tire as wide as possible just because it physically entered: you need a clearance allowed by the manufacturer, including for dirt.

Check the compatibility of the tire and rim, the condition of the sidewalls, the fit of the side and the pressure retention. For a tubeless system, check the sealant and nipples in advance. If the system loses air overnight, solve the cause before starting.

Get the starting pressure value in calculator then check it against the limits of the equipment. For more information, see pressure guide. The conditions for hookless are described in Schwalbe documentation.

Check the light transmission and brakes

Go through a similar climb with the same luggage that you will carry on the race. If you have to push the lightest gear with difficulty, discuss the transmission range with the mechanic. Comparing options helps transmission calculator; the fit of the parts is confirmed separately.

Check the shifting of all gears, the locking of the wheels and the operation of both brakes. Evaluate the rest of the pads according to the model's instructions. New brake components require preparation according to the manufacturer's manual and verification on a familiar route.

Take the tightening torques from the documentation of the frame and components. "Pull harder just in case" is especially bad for carbon fiber.

Assemble a set that you know how to use

• a pump suitable for your nipples;
• a spare camera of the right size and with the right nipple length;
• mountings compatible with your system;
• for the camera — a puncture repair kit that you have already tried;
• multitool for bicycle fasteners;
• a suitable chain lock and tool, if you know how to perform such repairs.

Do not consider the CO₂ cylinder to be an infinite supply of air. Check the restrictions of the manufacturer of the camera and sealant on its use. A sidewall cut and a small puncture require different solutions.

At home, practice removing and installing the wheel, installing the camera and pumping it up. Find out what you can do yourself, and at what breakdown you will report the gathering.

Place water, food and navigation

Check if you can get a bottle and food on the go, and the bag does not touch the knee or tire. Plan the stock until the next confirmed replenishment point, taking into account the weather and your experience. Do not try unfamiliar food for the first time in a competition.

If you need navigation according to the rules, download GPX and make sure that the device opens the route without the Internet. Charge the devices, save the organizer's phone and the method of communication at the meeting. Check the attachment of the navigator and bags on a bumpy road.

Do a dress rehearsal

A few days before the race, drive a familiar route with the selected tires, pressure, clothes and a full set of things. Check if the fastenings are unwinding, if the bags are rubbing, and if a repair kit is available.

After checking, do not change the correct configuration for no reason. The day before, pressure, charge, documents and time of arrival remain. Document folder assemble separately from the technical preparation of the bike.