The premiere edition of our Gravel Bike Experience is a wrap
Our Gravel Bike Experience has come to an end. This was the first Q36.5 Bike Experience focused solely on gravel bike riding and it was a great success! We had four days to take our group on regional rides far away from the busy trafficked roads and expose them to the splendor of South Tyrol in autumn.
Led by our own Mario Kummer, the group discovered gravel trails around Bolzano that led them up the mountains surrounding this south Tyrolean city and offered them breathtaking views in the clear autumn air. Our team took care of every detail, not only during the ride arranging for coffee and cake breaks and providing 100% back up with a support car, but also after the rides offering recovery massages, wine tastings and gourmet and regional dinners in local restaurants.
Group leader Mario Kummer's kit tips
When riding through a variety of terrains and experiencing changing temperature ranges, I recommend the following Equipment:
Hybrid Que X
Why? It‘s lightweight with uncompromising protection, natural wind control and moisture management.
Wolf 2.0
I find this piece ideal for autumn riding conditions, when the sun is still warm on the skin but the air is cooler. The DWR - Durable Water Repellent treatment - supplies extra protection from dirt and mud.
Base Layer 2
I chose to use the short sleeve version as I knew we would be riding hard!
Hybrid Que X
Wolf 2.0 Bibs
Base Layer 2
Day 1 Lake Monticolo
After arriving and enjoying a quick lunch together, the group set off to ride in the region of Monticolo, an area considered the fall and winter playground for local riders. With many gravel trails and single tracks winding their ways above two pristine lakes, the riders used the afternoon to warm up and practice their skills for the upcoming days. The warm and inviting weather allowed the group to practice until sunset!
For the GPX file click here
Day 2 Colle - Nova Ponente
From the hotel, the group rode to Bolzano and then took a cable car to Colle, a small village above the city. From there an amazing route, with breathtaking views of the Dolomite mountain range, challenged the skills of our riders. The recovery massage at the end of the day was well deserved!
For the GPX file click here
Day 3 Monte Corno
This crowning stage included a long climb from Ora to Trodena, part of the Monte Corno natural park, before continuing up to the peak of Corno mountain. It wasn‘t an easy day, but the views from the top and the ‘rifugio‘ made it worth the effort! After the massage, the group enjoyed a tasting at the local winery of Caldaro famous for its white wines. The evening finished off with a special dinner at the castle of Caldaro.
For the GPX file click here
Day 4 Caldaro
The final ride took our participants on a trail above lake Caldaro, which required good technical skills. A farewell lunch while enjoying the warm rays of the autumn sun at the edge of the lake was a fitting end to 4 wonderful days that included massive rides mixed with relaxing moments. Memories were made!
For the GPX file click here
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