What kind of bike should I ride?

So you might be asking yourself, "What kind of bike is best suited for the Alma Glengravel Ramble?" The short answer is that pretty much any bike will work! While 23 mm road tires aren't exactly advisable (and, in fact, I'd probably say that's not a great idea...) they can work.

Here are a few options to consider, if you are thinking of an upgrade! (...and if so, I'd recommend you stop in to see the friendly folks at Terry's Cycle in Alma, as they know gravel!)

1) Opt for "wide" gravel tires. How wide? Well it depends on your frame and fork! On my SuperX, these 42 mm tires, set up tubeless, are pretty great.

2) If you already own a 'cx or gravel bike, 33 mm clinchers are a solid bet. You don't need much tread! For those of you taking on the 100 mile loop, there are a few sections of "road" that aren't exactly all that well maintained. That said, don't let one or two small segments of non-hardpack determine what you haul around for the other 99 miles.

3) What if you have a mountain bike! Perfect! I'd venture that most people start riding gravel on their mountain bikes. I don't imagine many start off wearing Cookie Monster costumes, but hey, that's up to you. And Doug.

4) Slicks? Go for it. Wide is probably a good bet - something in the neighborhood of 28-32 mm, if possible. There are a few (short) sections of pavement on all three routes, so your slick tires will feel right at home. They aren't the greatest in sandy conditions, but you'd probably be surprised as to how not horrible they are.

5) What about your fancy carbon fiber 29'er? Sure! While it's probably overkill for this route, maybe it'll be nice out and you can venture out to Sally's Trail in town (in Conservation Park) for 4-ish miles of singletrack after your ride!

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