New developments in gravel bikes

This new rating grid is the result of work carried out with the French Cycling Federation (FFC). Its objective is to make “Gravel” activity more understandable for all riders throughout the territory, with four distinct difficulty levels, from easiest to most challenging: green, blue, red, and black. The criteria (distances, elevation gains, trails) provide a more precise overview of the thousands of kilometers of marked routes across France.

A practice that opens new horizons for cycling!

Because Gravel offers great promises to an increasing number of enthusiasts with the multiplication of adventure-oriented events. It is certainly on the rise! Although this way of riding is not truly new: in fact, it finds its direct source in the Federation’s activities, with what was then called “cyclo-muletier” (muleteer cycling). It was inspired by shepherds and mountaineers who used their bikes to travel from one valley to another. They took paths leading to mountain pastures and sometimes had to carry their machine to overcome obstacles on these wild routes.

Thanks to its dedicated national commission, the Federation’s objective is to develop the activity, harmonize it across the entire territory, and strengthen its community around its clubs and events.

Events and challenges to take on can be found on the website veloenfrance.fr

Nearly 200 rides organized by clubs offer Gravel routes this year

A full program to enjoy, with events prepared by expert riders! There are also “Long Distances,” grouped under a quality label, some of which are specially designed for Gravel.

But also muleteer passes: many cycle tourists, for trips or personal challenges, have always used all kinds of roads and trails with their touring bikes. Thanks to the partnership with the Club des cent cols, veloenfrance.fr offers a complete list accessible free of charge to all enthusiasts. A real springboard to create excitement and inspire people to collect passes climbed by the strength of their calves.