Gravelbike: Rules, training, competitions & gravel races in Germany (Guide)

What is gravel biking?

Gravel biking is a form of cycling that involves riding a special bike similar to a racing bike - the gravel bike - on gravel paths, forest roads and mixed surfaces.

The term "gravel" stands for gravel. Gravel bikes combine the speed of a road bike with the robustness of a mountain bike.

In Germany, gravel biking is increasingly developing from a leisure trend to a serious competitive sport.

Definition: What is a gravel bike?

A gravel bike is a road bike with:

• broader tires (usually 35-50 mm)

• stable frame

• relaxed geometry

• disc brakes

• several mounting options for bags

It enables fast rides on asphalt as well as on unpaved paths.

Gravel bike vs. road bike vs. Mountain bike

Gravel closes the gap between road and trail.

Gravel biking as a competitive sport

Gravel races are becoming increasingly important internationally.

Typical features of gravel competitions:

• Distances between 60 and 300 kilometres

• Mixture of asphalt, dirt roads and gravel

• Mass start or time trial

• High level of personal responsibility (navigation, pacing, catering)

International formats such as Gravel Worlds or UCI Gravel Series have professionalized the sport. Gravel bike events are also increasingly being held in German-speaking regions.

How does a gravel race work?

A typical gravel race goes like this:

1. Mass start

2. Long distances on varying surfaces

3. Independent energy and pace control

4. Technical passages on gravel

5. Crossing the finish line - the winner is the fastest overall time

Unlike in road cycling, slipstreaming and team tactics are less dominant - individual strength is often decisive.

Gravel bike training: How to prepare yourself

Basic endurance

Long units in the aerobic zone are crucial.

Strength endurance

Riding on loose surfaces requires additional muscle work.

Technical training

• Curving on gravel

• Brake control

• Line selection

Interval training

Simulation of climbs or attacks.

What distances do you ride in gravel competition?

Many races are "unsupported", that is: limited external help.

Is gravel biking healthy?

Gravel biking trains:

• Cardiovascular system

• Leg muscles

• Balance

• Reactivity

The changing surface ensures greater muscular activation than pure road riding.

Equipment for gravel racing

• Gravel bike with disc brakes

• Tubeless tires

• Helmet

• GPS navigation

• Repair kit

• Energy bar & Fluid

• Bikepacking bags (for ultra-distances)

Tire pressure plays a crucial role in performance and comfort.

Why is gravel biking booming in Germany?

Reasons for the growth:

1. Independence from road traffic

2. Adventure character

3. Social media visibility

4. Combination of endurance & nature experience

5. Entry hurdle lower than in road racing

Gravel combines competition with adventure.

Find gravel bike events in Germany

Would you like to start yourself?

👉 Discover gravel bike races in the SPOFERAN competition calendar
👉 Find more cycling events in Germany
👉 View all sports in the SPOFERAN sports directory

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about gravel biking

• Is gravel biking a competitive sport?
  Yes, gravel racing is on the rise internationally.

• How fast do you ride in a gravel race?
  Average between 25 and 35 km/h, depending on the route.

• Do you need a special gravel bike?
  Yes, wider tires and stable geometry are important.

• Is gravel biking an Olympic sport?
  No, not yet.

How does gravel differ from cyclocross?
Cyclocross is shorter, more technical and lap-based.

Gravel biking in Germany: From trend to racing format

Gravel biking stands for freedom, adventure and sporting challenge. With increasing professionalization and more gravel races in Germany, the discipline is developing into a serious competitive sport. If you want to combine speed, nature and endurance, gravel biking is one of the most exciting cycling disciplines.