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  • 289: Gravel Bike Festivals

    289: Gravel Bike Festivals
    2026/06/04

    Dave Pryor, of Gravelfest PA, and Alex Howell, of Dirty Kitten Gravel Festival, join us to discuss some exciting new offerings coming in 2026.

    Discover how gravel events are transforming from competitive races to inclusive, community-focused festivals that prioritize fun, connection, and accessibility. This episode dives into the shifting landscape of gravel cycling and highlights the importance of creating welcoming spaces for all riders.

    In this episode:

    How gravel festivals are replacing traditional race formats and why it matters

    The role of community, organic activities, and organic fun in festival design

    Differences between competitive racing and festival environments in terms of stress and culture

    The benefits of multi-day gravel festivals versus single-day races

    How festival environments can promote diversity, inclusion, and lower barriers for women, non-binary, and underrepresented groups

    The impact of industry support: balancing grassroots festivals with mainstream events

    Practical tips for event organizers considering transition from race to festival

    Key features of successful gravel festivals: flexible routes, community-led challenges, social engagement

    Insights from organizers of Dirty Kitten Gravel Fest, PA Gravel Fest, and Unpaved

    The future of gravel events: balancing tradition, innovation, and community

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction: The rise of gravel festivals over traditional races

    02:19 - Why gravel festivals foster community and reduce stress

    06:04 - Key differences between races and festivals in structure

    10:12 - The significance of community in gravel culture

    12:54 - Transitioning from competitive races to bike parties: motivation and challenges

    16:46 - Planning inclusive challenges like time trials and skill clinics

    22:19 - The importance of organic and organic elements at gravel festivals

    26:35 - Demographic trends: Who’s showing up and why festivals attract diversity

    32:25 - Safety, logistics, and managing big multi-day events

    40:44 - Maintaining intimacy and connection at scaled events like Unpaved

    48:05 - Industry dynamics: corporate influence versus grassroots initiatives

    54:36 - How to pivot from race to festival: key advice for organizers

    62:11 - Essential qualities: passion, community, authenticity in event design

    67:15 - Creative ideas: fun podiums, themed challenges, and community-led activities

    70:46 - Navigating GPS and route management in festival settings

    77:26 - The benefits of embracing the festival model for long-term engagement

    78:55 - Final thoughts: fostering a fun, accessible, and community-driven gravel culture

    Additional Notes:

    The episode discusses how to adapt traditional race events into more inclusive and engaging festivals, emphasizing community, fun challenges, and participant experience.

    Tips for organizers include balancing structured events with free time, utilizing QR-based tracking, and promoting diversity.

    The conversation highlights the potential for a broader gravel culture emphasizing accessibility, community, and sustainability.
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    1 時間 19 分
  • 288: Building a Bulletproof Bike for Mon Forest Adventures

    288: Building a Bulletproof Bike for Mon Forest Adventures
    2026/05/28

    Brian Raines shares updates on gravel biking, bikepacking, and upcoming events, including the Mon Forest routes and the East Coast Bikepacking Summit. He discusses his custom bike build, gear choices, and community activities, offering insights for bike enthusiasts and adventurers.

    Key Topics...

    Bikepacking gear and build choices

    Mon Forest route network and festival

    Community events and meetups

    Bikepacking tips and gear reviews

    Upcoming gravel and bikepacking events

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Gravel Biking and Podcast Updates

    03:00 Building a Hardtail Bikepacking Rig

    11:49 Upcoming Bikepacking Summit and Community Events

    29:45 Exploring the Mon Forest and New Routes

    35:01 Gear Talk: Shoes and Cooking Preferences

    42:44 Community Engagement and Listener Updates
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    43 分
  • 287: All About GRUSK

    287: All About GRUSK
    2026/05/14
    Join us as Travis Olson shares insights into the iconic GRUSK race, the evolving gravel and bikepacking scene in West Virginia, and practical tips for participants. Whether you're an avid gravel rider, a multi-day adventure seeker, or curious about the Mon Forest network, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.In this episode:The origins and evolution of the GRUSK event over its first decadeDetailed route descriptions for the 220, 260, and 319-mile bikepacking routesThe role and development of the Mon Forest Gravel and Bikepacking NetworkTips on gear, tire choices, and accommodating different ride stylesThe unique environmental features, like the Dark Skies Zone and Green Bank Radio Quiet ZoneInsights into event logistics, resupply points, and camping optionsFun lightning round with quirky questions about regional snacks and legendary sightingsTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of the podcast focus 00:30 - Support options: GTD After Hours and community engagement 01:35 - Bicycle maintenance adventures and derailleur mishaps 02:52 - The significance of the clutch engagement on Di2 systems 03:55 - Community chats on support, birding channels, and event culture 04:30 - The appeal and history of titanium bike frames 05:11 - The origins of GRUSK and its growth into a premier mountain festival 06:00 - Route number growth from 113 riders to 600+ 07:10 - The magical allure of Spruce Knob and Dark Skies Zone 07:50 - The Green Bank Radio Quiet Zone explained 08:20 - The importance of radio astronomy and interference laws 09:18 - Connecting with nature and the unplugged event experience 10:00 - The magic of community and camping culture at GRUSK 12:12 - The rapid development of bikepacking routes and multi-day challenges 13:40 - Event logistics, arrival times, and early camping advice 14:41 - The towns and trails around the event venues, including Durban and Marlinton 18:57 - Race distances, course details, and route descriptions 19:48 - Climbs, descents, and course safety considerations 23:04 - Aid stations, resupply points, and camping options along the routes 26:36 - The post-ride festivities, music, and campfire camaraderie 28:51 - The multi-day race options: Venti, Lungo, Tricento with distances and elevations 29:40 - The origins of the multi-day races inspired by tour divide 31:54 - The challenge and gear needed for longer ultra events 33:12 - Participation numbers and race timing strategies 34:46 - Support, safety, and voluntary rescue preparedness 36:36 - Traveling with emergency contacts and the importance of safety gear 37:18 - Optimal tire choices for varied West Virginia gravel terrain 38:52 - The evolution and affordability of gravel bike tires 39:42 - The current state of tire pricing and recommendations 40:36 - Gearing considerations for different terrain types 41:12 - How to select a bike suited for GRUSK and similar events 44:01 - The e-bike friendly environment and battery planning 45:34 - The importance of resupply stations and planning for endurance races 47:17 - Local eateries and the significance of regional snacks like pepperoni rolls 48:11 - Camping and support options, including spots with water and aid 50:21 - The ongoing registration numbers and participant community 51:22 - Camping habits and the mix of racers and riders 52:28 - A fun lightning round: choose between a pepperoni roll or LTE service 62:44 - Legends of the area: Black bears vs. Mothman sightings 63:37 - Dealing with fog and visibility on mountain rides 64:16 - How to stay safe and connected during remote race environments 65:49 - Wrapping up: registration links, event dates, and ways to get involved 66:22 - Final thoughts and community call to actionResources & Links:GRUSK Race Information & RegistrationBikePacking RootsMon Forest Towns & Gravel NetworkRide with GPSGreen Bank Radio Quiet ZoneStarlink by SpaceXPepperoni Roll — West Virginia Culinary DelightThanks for riding along! Remember to respect nature, plan thoroughly, and enjoy the adventure. See you at GRUSK!
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    1 時間 4 分
  • 286: GTD After Hours Meetup #1 in Warm Springs, VA

    286: GTD After Hours Meetup #1 in Warm Springs, VA
    2026/05/07
    AnalyzeContent type: Panel discussion / Community recap episodePrimary goal: Educational and community engagementMain topics: Organizing bike meetups, the Mid-Atlantic gravel scene, travel adventures, bike repairs, local historyLength: ~69 minutes (auto-detected from transcript)Weekend Adventure, Community Meetups, and Bike Repair RecapJoin us as we dive into a recent mid-Atlantic gravel meetup, sharing the planning process, highlights from scenic rides, and the practical lessons learned from bike mishaps in the outdoors. This episode celebrates community, adventure, and the joy of exploring unfamiliar roads.Main Topics:Organizing and participating in local gravel bike meetupsHighlights of a multi-day bike adventure near Warm Springs, VATroubleshooting and repairing bikes after unexpected mechanical failuresExploring regional history and natural hot springsThe importance of community support and spontaneous adventuresIn this episode:The origins of the Warm Springs meetup and Casey's motivationsScenic ride routes, including the Homestead Skyline Drive and local gravel roadsHow Casey’s derailleur failed dramatically on a rocky descent and the subsequent rescue missionTips for riding and walking bikes through rough terrainThe relaxing experience of bathing in natural hot springsPlanning future meetups and exploring new areas with the Discord communityTimestamps:(00:00) - Intro and episode overview: exploring biking adventures and community(02:27) - Introduction to the GTD After Hours Discord and community benefits(04:18) - Reflecting on the show's origins and community vibe(05:13) - The evolution of episode titles from humorous to practical(07:25) - Casey’s perspective on regional exploration and upcoming rides(10:57) - The story behind the Warm Springs meetup and regional history(15:46) - Scenic drive from Cumberland, Maryland to Hot Springs, VA(20:07) - Camping options and ride planning in the area(26:36) - Using Starlink for remote connectivity: experiences and troubleshooting(28:40) - Summit descent and the exhilaration of long downhill stretches(39:45) - The derailleur mishap: what happened and lessons learned(43:55) - Deciding whether to count the hike and bike miles after failure(50:02) - The quick rescue mission and the community's reaction(55:04) - Bathing in the historic Jefferson Baths and relaxation(58:48) - Moby Dick as a metaphor for ongoing bike adventures and challenges(61:43) - Future plans for meetups and exploring new riding areas(64:42) - Campground vibes: social vs. pristine environments(66:12) - Favorite recovery activities: soaking in hot springs or spins(69:32) - Wrap-up and community call to action: join our Discord and keep the adventure aliveResources & LinksMid-Atlantic Gravel, Travel & Dirt PodcastDiscord - Mid-Atlantic GTD After HoursBald Eagle State ParkHomestead Skyline Drive - Historical InfoJefferson Baths - Hot Springs, VAStarlink by SpaceXRocky Gap State ParkBikova Brewery & Hot SpringsConnect with Casey:Discord ProfileFinal NotesThis episode underscores the thrill of spontaneous adventure and the value of community support in gravel biking. Whether you're repairing a bike mid-ride or relaxing in historic springs, the journey is about exploration and connection. Keep riding, keep sharing, and join us in the next adventure!
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    1 時間 6 分
  • 285: Lu Lacka Recap, Trail Building & More

    285: Lu Lacka Recap, Trail Building & More
    2026/04/30

    Episode 285 - Lu Lacka Recap, Trail Building & More

    Join us as we dive into a weekend packed with gravel riding, trail work, and upcoming events. Whether you're into gravel racing, trail stewardship, or just love bike adventures, this episode is full of insights, stories, and tips.

    In this episode:

    Recap of Brian's Lu Lacka Wyco Hundo event

    Recap of Joey's recent trail building efforts

    Detailed review of the American Classic tires' long-term performance

    A behind-the-scenes look at trail work: bench cutting, dealing with rocks and roots

    Tips for bike setup, riding in rain, and handling tough descents

    Upcoming gravel events and how to support community initiatives

    Fun "This or That" segment on trail building conditions and dream bike scenarios

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction and episode overview

    01:00 - Joey's trail building experience at Lulaca

    03:00 - Review of American Classic long-term tire performance

    06:30 - Organizing gravel events: Grinduro and PA Gravel Fest

    09:00 - Trail work deep dive: bench cutting and rock removal

    12:00 - Riding in rain vs. heat: which is worse?

    14:00 - Recap of Lulaca: scenery, logistics, and highlights

    17:00 - Gravel road descents and technical single track

    20:00 - Highlights of the big climbs and spectacular views

    23:00 - Rest stops, tacos, and community vibe at Lulaca

    26:00 - Gear and bike setup for endurance gravel riding

    28:00 - Upcoming events and plans: Warm Springs meetup & more

    31:00 - Planning schedules and balancing work and riding

    34:00 - Supporting trail advocacy and stewardship programs

    37:00 - Trail building techniques and tackling stubborn rocks

    42:00 - Post-trail work reflections and safety tips

    45:00 - Rain gear, shelter, and camping experiences

    48:00 - Weekend updates: sleeping setups and gear reviews

    52:00 - Tire wear, performance, and future gear plans

    58:00 - Upcoming race and event sign-ups: Croatan Buck 50 and beyond

    61:00 - Innovative ideas: invisibility bikes and fun March plans

    65:00 - Wrap-up, community shoutouts, and closing remarks
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    1 時間 5 分
  • 284: Building the Mon Forest Bikepacking Network

    284: Building the Mon Forest Bikepacking Network
    2026/04/23

    Building the Mon Forest Bikepacking Network - Explore the development of the Mon Forest bikepacking network, community engagement, and upcoming events like the Bikepacking Summit. Learn about route planning, gear considerations, and the unique outdoor opportunities in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

    Our guests this week are Noelle Battle, the Executive Director of BikepackingRoots.org, and David Landis from V2V Trails.

    Mon Forest bikepacking network development

    Community engagement in route planning

    Gear and equipment for multi-day trips

    Upcoming Bikepacking Summit in Marlinton

    Outdoor recreation and conservation in West Virginia and Pennsylvania

    Bikepacking Roots - https://bikepackingroots.org

    Ride with GPS - https://ridewithgps.com

    Mon Forest Towns Partnership - https://monforesttowns.org

    Wild Elk Gravel - https://wildelkgravel.com

    Bikepacking Summit 2024 - https://bikepacking.com/events/marlinton-summit-2024

    Purple Lizard Maps - https://purplelizard.com

    Instagram - https://instagram.com/dplandis

    Bikepacking Roots - https://bikepackingroots.org

    #bikepacking #bikepackingroutes

    #bikepackinggear
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    55 分
  • 283: Bikes! (New for 2026)

    283: Bikes! (New for 2026)
    2026/04/16

    Exploring Modern Gravel and Bikepacking: Interviews, Gear, and Trails

    This episode dives into recent gravel adventures, upcoming bike innovations, and the vibrant community of bikepacking enthusiasts. Join us as we discuss trail highlights, new bike models, and insights into the evolving bike industry—perfect for riders looking to push their limits or simply enjoy the ride.

    Main Topics Covered:

    • Highlights from recent gravel adventures in Maryland and West Virginia, including trail conditions and scenic routes.
    • Deep dive into upcoming gravel bikes from Trek, Specialized, Kona, and others, with focus on innovations like full suspension, internal storage, and new geometries.
    • The evolution of bikepacking gear, including dynamo hubs, fixie trends, and integrated storage solutions.
    • Community and educational events, including coach retreats, Trail Work, and youth programs with the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA).
    • Future plans for meetups, podcast collaborations, and special giveaways for listeners and Discord members.

    Resources & Links:

    • Rodeo Labs | Innovative bikepacking gear and bikes
    • Specialized Diverge | Versatile gravelbike line with future shock
    • Kona Cycles | Purpose-oriented bikes like the Unity and Auto
    • Trail Donkey by Rodeo Labs | Explore their all-round adventure frames
    • Walmart Ozark Trail Bikes | Affordable entry-level gravel and adventure bikes
    • Revelate Designs | Bags and gear for bikepacking and adventure riding
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    1 時間 10 分
  • 282: Mon Forest Bikepacking & Grinduro PA

    282: Mon Forest Bikepacking & Grinduro PA
    2026/04/09

    Exploring West Virginia Bikepacking & Grinduro PA with Mid-Atlantic Gravel Travel

    Join Brian and Joey as they dive into the vibrant West Virginia bikepacking scene, sharing insights on the Mon Forest project, upcoming events like Grinduro Pennsylvania, and the evolving bike models fueling these adventures. Whether you're planning your first trip or a seasoned rider, this episode is packed with tips, route highlights, and community updates to inspire your next ride.

    Main Topics Covered:

    The Mon Forest Bikepacking Routes: An overview of the regional loops, key towns involved, and the route diversity in West Virginia

    Upcoming Events & Community Initiatives: Details on the Mon Forest Bikepacking Summit, Grinduro Pennsylvania, and local engagement opportunities

    Bike Recommendations & Gear Tips: Insights on bike types suitable for various routes including terrain considerations and bikepacking-specific gear

    Strategic Route Planning: When to ride, logistical considerations, and scenic highlights like Dolly Sods and Canaan Valley

    Social & Community Building: The power of local meetups, Discord interactions, and shared experiences fostering the bikepacking community

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Introduction & episode overview

    02:03 - Joey's bike and office tour sneak peek

    06:03 - Details on West Virginia’s route network & key towns

    10:09 - Comparing East Coast gravel events and community diversity

    15:11 - Highlights of Mon Forest mountain loops and regional routes

    20:05 - Water, lodging, and gear considerations for remote routes

    21:28 - Upcoming bikepacking summit recreation & social activities

    24:12 - Reviving Grinduro Pennsylvania with community vibes

    30:06 - Bike choices and recommended setups for tough terrain

    33:00 - Discord community insights & future meetups

    42:38 - Philosophical musings on long-distance adventures & personal growth

    48:08 - The cultural and traditional significance of the Masters golf tournament

    50:43 - Closing thoughts & gratitude for the bikepacking community

    Resources & Links:

    Mon Forest Bikepacking Roots Project - https://bikepackingroots.org/projects/mon-forest-bikepacking

    Mon Forest Bikepacking Summit - https://bikepackingroots.org/2026/02/monforestsummit/

    Grinduro Pennsylvania - https://grinduro.com/pennsylvania/

    Note: Stay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring guest interviews on bike models, route design, and community stories.
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    52 分