🚴 The essential accessories and clothing for a successful gravel bike ride

Gravel riding is pure freedom: escaping onto unfamiliar trails, combining road and trail, and riding far and wide. But to fully enjoy the adventure, it's crucial to have the right gear, just like in bikepacking. Here's a selection of essentials to include in your checklist before setting off on your bike adventure to help you make the right choice.

🎒 Luggage & storage

When you go gravel riding, you want to be light but self-sufficient. Luggage must be stable, waterproof, and well-designed so as not to interfere with pedaling.

• Frame bag: ideal for distributing weight without hindering the handling of the bike.
• Saddle bag: perfect for carrying bulk without a luggage rack.
• Small handlebar bag: practical for quick-access items (phone, snack, map, etc.).
• Gravel tires: choose tires suited to the terrain! You'll find plenty at cycletyres.fr (among others)

🧢 Technical clothing

Comfort in the saddle requires clothing that is well-cut, breathable, and suitable for the effort, while being robust enough to withstand the elements.

• Lightweight , compressible windbreaker jacket with water-repellent treatment.
• Bib shorts or shorts with integrated skin, to limit friction.
• Stretch pants or overtrousers in case of uncertain weather.

• Managing body temperature is essential, especially on long or mountain outings .

  • Breathable underlayer to wick away perspiration.
  • Lightweight fleece or thermal jersey depending on the weather.
  • Multifunctional neck warmer, useful against wind, cold or sun.

🧤 Safety accessories

Safety and comfort require well-chosen accessories, adapted to the terrain and conditions.

• Well-ventilated, lightweight and comfortable helmet for long rides.
• Protective glasses, ideal against the sun, wind, dust.
• Lightweight or insulated gloves depending on the season, for a good grip and to avoid blisters.
• Be visible. Always. We know, reflectors aren't necessarily stylish, but if they help...

🔧 Tools & autonomy

When riding gravel, the unexpected is always just around the corner. A good repair kit will save you more than once.

• Compact multi-tool: Allen keys, screwdrivers, chain breaker...the best remains Leatherman .
• Tubeless repair kit or patches + spare inner tube.
• Mini pump or CO2 cartridge for quick re-inflation.
• A GPS and/or an IGN map.

🍫 Nutrition & Hydration

Staying fit and well hydrated is essential. Opt for convenient and easily digestible formats. And we know a thing or two about that!

• Energy bars or dried fruit for quick snacks: discover our nutrition pack dedicated to Gravel !
• Soft flask, classic bottle or water bag, easy to refill.
• Compote or isotonic drink to vary your intake and avoid energy dips.