Road bikes do just fine on gravel!

I just did a road race in Louisiana (Rouge Roubaix) that included ~15 miles of gravel roads... sandy, slippery, deep gravel There were some wrecks, of course, but for the most part, people were inspired to ride harder on the gravel sections than on the paved road It was freakin' awesomely fun.

Once you get past the mindset of "road bikes may only be used on pavement," you're on the right track. I actually seek out gravel roads on my rides because they add some interest to an occasionally monotonous activity.

Tips:
  • A slightly tougher tire is not a bad idea- I've used 23c Kenda C2Cs and 25c Conti Gatorskins with no issue.
  • Carry two tubes/CO2s. You are slightly more likely to flat
  • Unless you're on really slippery stuff, you may find that a slightly harder gear feels better.
  • Just like on the pavement- Look ahead for potholes or stuff you don't want to run over, NOT down at the ground just in front of your wheel. Pretend like you've got blinders on to prevent you from looking down. Look where you want to go!
  • If you start to slide a little or hit a deep spot, pedal harder to get out of it... DON'T slow down or grab the brakes (or look down)!


Have fun!!!