A group of us are planning to ride the Gravel Grovel. This is a 100 kilometer bicycle race over mostly gravel surfaces. This takes place in late November near Story Indiana.
My goal is to finish the race. Finishing last is okay.
I don’t have the budget for a dedicated gravel bike, so I’ll be stripping racks, lights, and fenders off of the LHT and putting some fatter tires on it. The LHT is a wonderfully versatile bike.
Depending on the weather, clothing may be a bigger challenge.
Wish me luck!
This is SO excellent. I can’t wait to read all about it. Best of luck, my friend!
How wide are your tires? Are you thinking of making any changes in that department?
It’s got 42s on it. I’m considering 47s. I’m not sure how wide I could fit on the LHT, even without the fenders.
I know you will ultimately have a blast doing this race. Finishing last is still finishing, you just see the scenery a bit longer! 😉
According to Surly a 26″ LHT will fit 2.1″ tires, with or without fenders, so about a 52-54mm tire.
I’ll throw some suggestions out there:
Bontrager XR1 (Team Issue) $$$
Schwalbe Racing Ralph $$$$
Kenda Happy Medium $$
Kenda Small Block Eight $$
If you just don’t care and don’t wanna part with any money, I’ve got a set of 1.95s that are el-cheapos, but will work, and I’ll give them to you for nothin’.
Timothy,
My LHT has 700 wheels. Patrick has some 47s he’ll loan me.
Thanks though.
Thanks for spreading the word. Hope to see you and many of your friends there!