Year of the Gravel Grinder

This year is the year of the gravel grinder. My love for dirt riding started two years (2014) ago with the purchase of a new mountain bike (also noted that was the last time I wrote on this blog). This past year was the year to upgrade my cyclocross bike from aluminum frame to carbon and decided that the year 2016 will include gravel grinders. In the back of my mind, I have the Dirty Kanza (100 miles) on the bucket list (the year to be determined).

My old MASI cross bike is a fine bike. A bit heavy but was very good for my first 100 mile gravel grinder (Rebecca Rusch’s Private Idaho) in 2013 and a load of cross races. The 2016 Focus Mares CX Disc 105 is quite a bit lighter and improved performance with the disc brakes.

Focus Mares CX - Carbon Shimano 105

Mr. Fackler and I had our first dirt ride last week to prep for the RockCobbler in Bakersfield this February. It was also our longest ride in several months. We picked a route we could take directly from our front door. It included a good mix of road & trails. Most of the trails were in Lake Hodges.  During this route, I was reminded of some key lessons: 1. Hydration is key prior to riding (didn’t help New Year’s eve was the day before). 2. Bring more snacks because bonking sucks (failed here since I’m used to 2 hour rides and less) 3. Falling on rocks will hurt, it’s ok to tear up a bit but get up and back on the bike as if nothing happened 4. Having a domestique (thanks Mr. Fackler) makes it more fun!

Mr. Fackler leading the way at Lake Hodges

I’m not sure why I’m so nervous prepping for the Rock Cobbler. I’ve ridden thousands of miles with climbing before although it’s been some time. I think it’s the climbing and getting to know the feeling of suffering once again. Mr. Fackler agreed to ride with me the entire time so that is comforting. My goal is just to finish and have fun. 

Do what you fear most…it’s my motto for this gravel grinder. 

Our ride from Solana Beach: