Gravel bikes: A trend that’s gaining ground

Over the past few years, gravel bikes have seen explosive growth in the Quebec City region. Halfway between a road bike and a mountain bike, this versatile type of bike is winning over a growing number of cyclists looking for adventure, freedom and new trails to explore.

Thanks to its robust design, wider tires and comfortable geometry, the gravel bike is perfectly suited to back roads, gravel paths, forest trails and even rougher tracks. It lets you leave traditional routes behind and discover remote spots that few cyclists ever get to see.

The Quebec City region is an ideal playground for gravel enthusiasts, with vast areas like Jacques-Cartier, Portneuf, Charlevoix and Côte-de-Beaupré offering countless loops that are perfect for this booming discipline.

Essential prep for a successful ride

Riding remote and sometimes rough trails requires a minimum of preparation. Here are a few items you should always have with you on a gravel ride:

• A spare inner tube suited to your tires

• Tire levers to make flat repairs easier

• A CO2 cartridge (or mini pump) to reinflate quickly

• A multi-tool for on-the-go mechanical adjustments

• Energy snacks (bars, dried fruit, gels) to keep your energy level up

• Plenty of water, especially for long distances

• A charged phone (ideally with GPS or an offline map)

Beyond simple training, the gravel bike represents a lifestyle. It embodies a taste for adventure, a connection with nature and a freer approach to cycling. Whether it’s a short ride after work or a weekend bikepacking getaway, more and more enthusiasts are falling under its spell.

Events, clubs, and group rides dedicated to gravel are multiplying in the region, reflecting the enthusiasm for this new way of riding. For cyclists looking for something new, more variety, and a bit of a challenge, the gravel bike is definitely the trend to embrace.