1. Setting off with unsuitable or over-inflated tires
Gravel is more forgiving with sections 38 to 45 mm and pressures adapted to your weight and the terrain. Overinflated tires vibrate, stall and tire you. Too low and you pinch. You move faster and more safely when the tire works a little. For further information, take a look at our guide to tires and carcasses for travel: choosing tires for bikepacking and the right mounting direction studs: bicycle tire direction.
2Zap the basic settings
Two reference points are all you need to get off to a good start: saddle height (leg slightly bent at bottom of pedal) and recoil (knee above pedal axle in support). Then adjust the handlebar width/height and cocottes orientation to relax shoulders and wrists. A micro-adjustment is better than a long, damaged ride.
3. Warm-up and cool-down
A few minutes of easy breathing at the start, a few minutes of supple breathing at the end of the ride: it's simple and it changes everything. Your tendons will thank you, and you'll still have the energy to play when the terrain turns playful.
4. Following a trail without reading it
On trails, a blue line doesn't tell the whole story: slopes, portages, unstable ground, barriers... Before setting off, inspect the key sections, locate water points and escape routes. Even on a short loop, keep a plan B. In need of inspiration? We detail the art of building an affordable (and beautiful) itinerary in our guides - for example Cap Ferret à vélo: itinerary step by step.
5. Underestimate hydration and nutrition
Every 15-20 min, take a few sips. Every 45-60 min, swallow a little sugar/salt. In gravel, neuromuscular expenditure climbs: it's better to anticipate than to endure. Need some simple, effective ideas? Here's where we can help: eating while bikepacking.
6. Treat trails like roads
When cornering, look away, brake before, keep the pressure on the outside, let the bike live under you. Stand on the pedals in chaotic passages, elbows supple; sit and sheathe on slippery climbs. Speed comes with fluidity.
7. Turn your outing into a permanent stopwatch
Average speeds are for the road. In gravel, pleasure is measured in smiles at the top of the embankment, not in numbers. Want to progress? Pace yourself by short blocks, active recovery, and one fun outing a week to work on reading the terrain.
8. Forget the first-aid kit
The minimum that saves a day:
- Chamber and/or tubeless wicks + pump/CO₂
- Multi-tools with chain stay + quick link
- Tire lever and mini patches
- Windbreaker, bars/compotes, ticket and phone charged
Slip all this into an accessible pannier. And don't forget headlamp if it gets dark: our guidelines for seeing and being seen: bikepacking lighting.
9. Poor load distribution
Heavy low and centered between the wheels. Light high and at the ends (handlebars/saddle). This sorting by weight and frequency of use avoids the "boat" effect. Store the puncture kit at the top of a dedicated pocket, and clothing layers within easy reach.
10. Neglect simple, regular maintenance
**Before: quick visual check (brake pads, tires, cracks, headset).
During: a quick wipe with** on the transmission and a micro-lub every two/three rides will change the silence of the bike... and your good mood.
11. Stubbornly sticking to a gear that's too hard
Climbing hard wears out your knees and nails you as soon as the second steep section. Aim for a comfortable cadence (85-95 rpm on the move, a little less on the climb), and don't hesitate to go smaller early on. And if it's really uphill, walk 50 m: you'll sometimes go faster, fresher.
12. Dress like you're on the road
** SPD wedges** shoes that work well, reliable bib shorts, gloves that protect in case of slipping, a compact windproof layer: the combo that makes breaks and passages on foot easier than with a rigid road mount.
13. Wanting to buy everything at once
Gravel loves sobriety. Test, rent to try out different formats (flare hangers, tire sections, panniers) and equip yourself little by little. Why renting saves time and money? Answer here: Why rent?
14. Ignoring light and visibility
A trail drags, a nap lengthens... and darkness arrives. Having a clear lamp on the front, a blinker on the back and a thin compactable vest is serenity. See point #8 for lighting basics.
15. Hide your exit from someone
Even for 1 h, tell someone about your play area and your time zone. Share the trail if you're going out alone. This simple message makes everyone safer.
