Beginner Gravel Biking: What I Wish I Knew in My First 30 Days

New to gravel riding and wondering what to expect? Here's everything I learned in my first month of riding. Fom gear regrets to the best apps for finding local trails, let’s dive right in! 

Why I Chose Gravel Biking Over Mountain Biking

I got into gravel riding because mountain biking intimidated me.

Every time I thought about getting on a mountain bike, it felt like the default expectation was to send it off a ledge. That just wasn’t what I was looking for. I wanted a way to explore dirt roads and trails close to home, to feel connected to the outdoors, and to move my body in a way that felt empowering, not terrifying.

So I bought a gravel bike. And 30 days in, it’s taken me further than I imagined—both physically and mentally.

My First 30 Days of Gravel Riding: Key Takeaways

1. My Body Got Stronger and Faster Than I Expected

One of the most surprising things about this first month was how quickly my body started to adapt. The first few rides were tough—my legs burned, my lungs protested, and I questioned whether I’d ever be “good” at this. But before I even realized it, I was climbing steeper hills, riding longer distances, and feeling stronger with every pedal stroke.

Progress didn’t look dramatic in the moment; it looked like stringing together a few good rides in a row, or making it up a hill I used to walk. But suddenly, I found myself setting new goals and wondering, What else am I capable of?

2. Don’t Wait to Buy a Padded Chamois

Look, I’m not going to sugarcoat this: if you’re new to gravel riding, buy a chamois. On day one. Trust me.

I tried to get by without one for the first few weeks, thinking I didn’t “need it” or could power through. That was a mistake. Your sit bones will thank you, your future self will thank you, and your post-ride mood will dramatically improve. Don’t make it harder than it needs to be.

3. Fueling Matters More Than I Thought

Gravel riding burns more calories than I ever expected. I quickly learned that it’s not just about eating before or after a ride—you have to fuel during the ride too.

Now I always carry snacks, even if it’s just something simple like gummy worms or a granola bar. A handful of Nerds Clusters has saved me more than once. Having something quick and easy to digest helps me avoid bonking and keeps my energy steady, especially on longer routes or climbs.

Pro tip: Don’t wait until you feel tired or hungry. Eat and drink consistently throughout your ride to stay ahead of fatigue.

4. Gravel Riding Gave Me the Freedom I Wanted

Gravel biking gave me space to build confidence at my own pace. I could ride mellow forest service roads one day and try light singletrack the next—all without feeling pressure to “keep up” or perform.

More than anything, I loved exploring places I’d never seen, just a few miles from home. Gravel riding turned ordinary afternoons into mini-adventures.

5. It’s Okay to Walk Your Bike

There’s this weird unspoken pressure in cycling to ride everything, but here’s what I’ve learned: there is zero shame in walking your bike.

If you can’t make it up a hill, hop off and hike it. If the terrain is sketchy or your legs are toast, give yourself permission to walk. Sometimes it’s the smartest choice for your safety and your sanity.

Honestly, I’ve had some of my best trail views while walking a steep climb and catching my breath. It’s all part of the adventure, and it doesn’t make you any less of a rider.

Walking your bike is still forward momentum, and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need before hopping back on and crushing the next stretch.

Best Gravel Riding Apps for Beginners

These apps helped me discover new routes and stay on course:

• Komoot: Great for planning gravel routes with offline maps and turn-by-turn navigation

• Trailforks: Shows trail difficulty, user reviews, and elevation info

• MTB Project: Offers mountain bike trails, many of which are gravel-bike friendly

• Strava: I use it to track progress and see what local riders are doing
  

Beginner Gravel Bike Gear I Recommend

Here’s what I actually used—and what I wish I had from day one. This list isn’t sponsored or curated for perfection. It’s just the stuff that helped me get out there consistently and enjoy the ride.

🚴‍♀️ Gravel Bike Setup

• Bike: Ozark Trails G1 Explorer – Budget-friendly and reliable, without being overly aggressive for a beginner.

👕 Clothing & Essentials

• Padded Chamois Shorts or Bibs – Absolute must-have. Don’t wait like I did.

• Breathable Jersey or Shirt – Lightweight, with back pockets if possible.

• Light Layers – Windbreaker or thermal depending on the season.

🔧 Accessories & Tools

• Helmet:  Safety first. Look for something with MIPS technology and good ventilation.

• Gloves:  I didn't expect how helpful these would be, especially on rougher sections or longer rides.

• Cycling Glasses: Protect your eyes from dust, wind, bugs, and unexpected debris. Clear or tinted lenses help with changing light conditions and keep your rides safer and more comfortable.

• Water Bottles or Hydration Vest: Hydration matters more than I thought. Two bottles minimum for longer rides.

• Handlebar Bag: Super helpful for snacks, phone, keys, safety equipment.
  

Final Thoughts: Why I’m Hooked on Gravel Biking

Gravel riding gave me a new relationship with movement, a new rhythm to my weekends, and a deeper appreciation for the landscapes around me. I’m only 30 days in, and I can already tell: this is just the beginning.

If you’re on the fence about starting whether because it feels intimidating, expensive, or like something only “real cyclists” do, just know that there’s room for you, too. Start small. Ride for fun. 

And seriously — don’t forget the chamois!