What do you actually need to get started gravel cycling? Really, it's just a sturdy bike and a bit of an adventurous spirit. I hope these practical tips are enough to get you out on the gravel roads and giving it a try.

A clean and lubricated bike chain won't make any noise. If your chain is squeaking or sounding gritty, that means you are both wasting energy and wearing out your chain. Since it's easy to clean your bike chain (and kinda fun, too), just find a few minutes and get it done! I'll tell what you need and describe how to do it. Then, you may be surprised how much easier it is to ride your bike!

If you want to try something new—visit a mountain bike trail you haven't been on, hit some gravel roads, or pull you cruiser out of the garage where it has been sitting for years—and want a friendly guide, let's meet up!

This is free for current clients and Velorosa Cycling Team members. Negotiable for everyone else.

"So much fun—you're the best trail guide!"

Does the Banner mountain bike trail have an undeserved bad reputation? I think it does. I believe these trails are just misunderstood.

I wrote this article in 2016 for the Iowa Mountain Bike Championship Series website. New trails have been added and some have changed since then, but the premise is still sound.