A mountain bikers guide to Grinduro
For the last 10 years I’ve been a mountain biker, through and through, riding trail centres, bike parks and getting into the hills. When COVID-19 hit getting to the trails was no longer as easy as it once was. I decided it was time to make use of the gravel tracks near home, so built up my first gravel bike, a Cotic Escapade. Over the next year, I dipped my toe into the gravel bike scene and before I knew it I decided to enter the 2023 Grinduro event!..... What was I letting myself in for?
I arrived on the Friday night and instantly realised that Grinduro had THE BEST atmosphere. The organisation of the event was faultless, the food provided, delicious and the party atmosphere had everyone stoked to ride. After a couple of beers from Magic Rock Brewery it was time for bed, to rest up for a long day in the saddle.
The morning of the event arrived and to say I was nervous would be an understatement. However, the riders at the event were all very supportive and chatty. We lined up at 9:30am sharp, ready for a mass start and up the first climb. This was a little chaotic, but only added to the fun with riders getting up close and personal in the first kilometre. The field soon spread out, and then we were in for an 11km climb out of Machynlleth and into the hills. We ventured up through the hills, seeing more and more of the Mid-Wales views. However, at about 8km in I experienced my first mechanical. My limit screw was slightly off and I lost my chain down the back of my cassette. This was luckily a quick fix and a helpful marshal had me on my way in no time. This was sadly followed by a second mechanic very shortly after, snapping a calliper mount bolt. (For anyone new to gravel bikes, they are ridged and juddery so don’t underestimated how many bolts might work loose). With another quick fix, and the help of some zip ties I was once again on my way and arrived at stage 1. This was a flat sprint alongside a small lake for 1.5km. It was a flat-out stage and a great warm up for the rest of the stages.
Due to my mechanicals, we had to jump onto a quick short course to ensure that we made it back in time for lunch. This missed out 3km of pedalling, which was a great feature to ensure that all riders can make the most of the day. Stage 2, was a 5km undulating traverse along the hill, which was pretty difficult to pace having never done anything like this before. I gave it my best shot, and came away with a time I was pleased with. We then made our way down the hill and returned to the campsite for some well needed lunch. I have to be honest, lunch was the hardest part of my day. I was already very tired, having completed a 39km ride, the distance further than I would usually ride on my mountain bike. I found the thought of heading out again very daunting but knew that I had to press on. The team I was riding with were great for moral, along with other riders at the event who all help each other through the day.
After the compulsory 2-hour lunch, we headed out again. The event organisers certainly know how to plan good routes as the afternoon ride had a very nice start which eased to you in a made the ride seem more achievable. We spent the first 8km in the afternoon on fire roads, heading into the forest, to be met by stage 3. My legs were not ready for what was about to come. A 3km hill climb, meandering up alpine style switch backs. The turns just kept coming, the hill kept climbing and my legs reluctantly kept spinning. I finally reached the top of stage 3, met by cheering riders egging each other on, snacks, coffee and beers (non-alcoholic). My legs were jelly, my heart pumping out my chest and sweat dripping. But my smile was for miles. After a good 10 minute break we got back onto our bikes and I was met with a well needed second wind. My legs had finally started to understand the assignment and for the first time I felt like my body was working with me. We were on the home stretch, heading back towards the town and the riding and views were amazing. A couple more minor mechanicals during this stage, again due to lose bolts but overall an enjoyable last few kilometres. Riders were starting to feel the buzz of getting to the end, laughing and joking their way up the climbs and cheering each other on. We finally made it to stage 4. The stage I had been waiting for all day. A 1.5km downhill stage, along narrower, tighter tacks finishing on a slab berm and into the finishers area. This stage was by far my favourite and felt more like the trails I know. I loved every second of stage 4 and it was the best way to finish my day on a high. I crossed the finish line next to my friend, and we smiled at each other. We had done it. Our first gravel bike race and what a race it was!
After a long day in the saddle, it was time for more of Grinduro’s amazing food, followed by an evening of podiums, beers live bands, DJ’s and a great party vibe! Grinduro really does bring it all. It is such a well-run event and for anyone thinking about taking part, no matter your riding background, I would consider giving it a go. I know I will definitely be back!
Photos & Words: Hannah Davies