
Advertise on podcast: Mid-Atlantic Gravel, Travel & Dirt
Rating
4.5from
This podcast has
292 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Mid-Atlantic GravelExplicit
No
Date created
2018/12/31
Latest episode
2026/07/22
Average duration
64 min.
Release period
11 days
Description
Welcome to the Mid-Atlantic Gravel, Travel & Dirt podcast. We are here to discuss the adventure bike lifestyle - the people, places, and events involving gravel, bikepacking, bike camping, bike touring and trails.
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Check latest episodes from Mid-Atlantic Gravel, Travel & Dirt podcast
290: GRUSK Venti
2026/07/22
Join us as we recount a grueling yet unforgettable 220-mile bikepacking journey through West Virginia’s rugged terrain. From route planning to gear choices, weather challenges to mental resilience, this episode covers it all — with insights, humor, and lessons learned on the trail.In this episode:
The motivations behind tackling ultra-distance gravel ridingDetailed mile-by-mile narration of the course, including key stops and route highlightsWeather impacts: rain, fog, and how they affected our pace and moraleGear assessments: tires, suspension, electronics, and the importance of lightweight packingMental toughness: overcoming fatigue, confusing moments, and staying motivatedHighlighted encounters, from the Green Bank Observatory to local stops and unexpected road conditionsTips for future adventures, including gear upgrades and route insightsReflections on the camaraderie and shared experience that makes endurance riding special
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction and episode overview(01:16) - Starting the journey at Spruce Knob Education Center(10:15) - Route planning, gear prep, and last-minute changes(19:23) - Climbing Buffalo Mountain and navigating rough terrain(21:25) - The Greenbank Radio Observatory: surreal route highlight(24:22) - Weather challenges: rain, mud, and muddy jeep roads(33:25) - Break at Alpine Lodge with strategic food and gear decisions(37:30) - Night riding, fog, and the summit of Spruce Knob(44:02) - Day two: traversing Parsons, Blackwater Canyon, and approaching the final climb(55:28) - The infamous Canane Loop Road: mud, water, and mental grit(70:33) - The ascent of Spruce Knob and celebrating the summit(76:20) - Descending in fog; the finish line and reflections(79:11) - Final thoughts: the mental and physical toll, camaraderie, and future rides
Resources & Links:
Coros Dura Bike ComputerMountain House FoodGreen Bank ObservatoryMichael Easter's "The Comfort Crisis"Blackwater BikesStill Hollow Spirits Distillery
Thanks for riding along with us — stay tuned for more adventures, gear tips, and tales from the trail!
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.
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
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 sightings
Timestamps:
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 action
Resources & Links:
GRUSK Race Information & RegistrationBikePacking RootsMon Forest Towns & Gravel NetworkRide with GPSGreen Bank Radio Quiet ZoneStarlink by SpaceXPepperoni Roll — West Virginia Culinary Delight
Thanks for riding along! Remember to respect nature, plan thoroughly, and enjoy the adventure. See you at GRUSK!
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 adventures
In 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 community
Timestamps:
(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 alive
Resources & 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 Springs
Connect with Casey:
Discord Profile
Final 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!
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
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
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 bikesSpecialized Diverge | Versatile gravelbike line with future shockKona Cycles | Purpose-oriented bikes like the Unity and AutoTrail Donkey by Rodeo Labs | Explore their all-round adventure framesWalmart Ozark Trail Bikes | Affordable entry-level gravel and adventure bikesRevelate Designs | Bags and gear for bikepacking and adventure riding
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.
281: Launch of GTD After Hours
2026/04/02
Dive into this episode where Brian and Joey unveil their exciting new community platform, GTD After Hours, built on Discord. Discover how they're fostering a genuine connection among gravel biking fans, bikepackers, and adventurers, moving beyond traditional social media.
Main Topics:
- The evolution from Patreon to a dedicated Discord community
- Building a vetted, spam-free, and engaging online space
- How to join and participate in the GTD After Hours server
- Features of the Discord setup, channels, and community guidelines
- Supporting creators and the value of community-driven content
- Upcoming meetups, ride reports, and community events
- How this platform aims to replace doom scrolling with meaningful engagement
- Technical tips for joining and using Discord effectively
In this episode:
Brian and Joey share the backstory and motivation behind launching the community
Details on how to support for only $5/month via LaunchPass
The significance of creating a curated space without politics or negativity
A tour of the channels, from gear, ride reports, to event calendars
Special perks for early supporters, including free gravel-themed shirts and stickers
Tips on setting up your Discord account and troubleshooting access
The vision for this community to grow into a hub for adventure bikers and gravel enthusiasts
280: Croatan Buck Fifty Wrap-Up
2026/03/26
Join us as we recount the exhilarating experiences from the Croatan Buck Fifty race, share insights into gravel-biking adventures, and discuss community, gear, and mental resilience amid challenging conditions. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to gravel riding, this episode provides valuable perspectives and tales from the trail.
In this episode:
- Overview of the Croatan Buck Fifty race and route
- Personal stories of adventure, struggle, and triumph on muddy, fast, and technical terrain
- Tips on bike setup, gear choices, and how to handle adversity during long rides
- Community dynamics: camping, social gatherings, and the spirit of gravel racing
- Exploring equipment talk: dynamo lights, tires, bikes, and innovative accessories
- Reflecting on injuries, long-term health considerations, and mental toughness
- Future plans for community-building platforms and online connections
Key topics include:
- Course conditions and changes caused by recent fires and road repairs
- Strategies for pacing, starting line organization, and avoiding group congestion
- The importance of community and camaraderie at gravel events and races
- Gear setup, especially bike transport, lighting, and tire selection
- Managing physical ailments like hand issues and race-day fatigue
- Fun anecdotes, campfire stories, and food highlights from the weekend
- The potential for a new online platform to connect gravel enthusiasts
Resources & Links:
Schwalbe Tires (quality tires for gravel & road) https://www.schwalbe.com/
Solo Stoves (campfire stoves) https://solostove.com/
Coros Watches (adventure and fitness watches) https://coros.com/
Gravel Travel & Dirt Website (event info & updates) http://graveltraveldirt.com/
Connect with us:
Instagram: http://instragram.com/MidAtlanticGTD
Website: http://graveltraveldirt.com/
Upcoming: Stay tuned for our new online platform designed to foster real-life gravel community connections, enhancing event experiences and online group cohesion. Together, we’re building a stronger gravel network!
Thanks for riding along—remember to do good, be nice, go slow, and respect others.
Until next time, loveyabye!
279: Coffee & Bikes With Alabaster Coffee
2026/03/19
Join us in this episode as we dive into the world of coffee, cycling, and community with Karl Fisher, the visionary behind Alabaster Coffee Roaster.
Discover how Karl's passion for coffee and biking has transformed a hobby into a thriving community-centered business. Explore the unique intersection of coffee culture and cycling, and learn about Alabaster's commitment to supporting local initiatives and fostering community growth.
Key Highlights:
- The journey from hobby to business: Alabaster Coffee's origins
- How coffee and cycling communities intersect and thrive together
- Sourcing and roasting practices: direct trade and regional rotation
- The role of coffee in community events and bikepacking adventures
- Collaborations with local breweries, bike shops, and nonprofits
- Karl's personal cycling experiences and favorite gear
Resources & Links:
Alabaster Coffee Roaster https://alabastercoffee.com/
Alabaster Coffee Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alabastercoffee
Zangi Kenya Bicycles Initiative https://zangi.co/
Supporting small businesses like Alabaster Coffee fosters community growth and authentic connections. Whether through local collaborations or sharing a cup, community is at the heart of everything Carl and Alabaster stand for.
278: GRAVEL Events, Bikes, Gear & Tires
2026/03/12
Join us each week as we discuss gravel bikes, adventure biking, bikepacking, bike camping, or just playing bikes.
Exploring Gravel Bikes, Events, and the Future of Bike Tech
Join us for episode 278 of Mid-Atlantic Gravel Travel and Dirt, where we dive into upcoming bike & gravel events like Philly Bike Expo and Croatan Buck Fifty, share impressions of new tires and gear, and discuss the latest innovations in bike technology for 2026. Whether you're planning your season or love bike talk, there's something here for every gravel enthusiast.
In this episode:
Highlights and insights into upcoming gravel events in March and April, including Philly Bike Expo, Harry Roubaix, Appalachian Journey, and Bald Eagle Gravel Grinder
First impressions on American Classic tires
Deep dive into 2026 bike industry trends: suspension systems, tire clearance, and ride tech innovations like future shock integration
The rise of tire pressure sensors and data-driven riding tools, including Kickstarter finds like Outrider
New bike models from Kona, Specialized, and others, including front suspension gravel bikes and full-suspension options
Accessories and pedal adapters like Redshift's mousetrap for converting SPD pedals to flats
Pricing comparisons for bike and car tires, and reflections on bike tire costs vs. automotive tires
Personal anecdotes on yard work, creek crossings, and fave spring gravel routes
A playful discussion on daylight savings, fluid dress codes with jerseys, and the importance of enjoying the gravel season
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro and season kickoff; upcoming gravel events in spring
02:22 - Philly Bike Expo details and what to expect
04:22 - Favorite local dining spots and travel logistics for Philly
06:49 - Preview of upcoming gravel races in March/April
11:01 - The magic of Croatan Buck 50 and camaraderie
12:01 - Campfire gear and social vibes at Buck 50
15:50 - New bikes & gear for 2026: trends and innovations
20:35 - Suspension tech and ride quality insights
26:20 - Wider tires and tubeless tech improving ride comfort
30:36 - Emerging tire models: Conti Terra, Schwalbe G1 RX Pro, and more
37:53 - Deep dive into tire design and arrow optimizations
42:30 - Comparing tire costs: bikes vs. cars, value considerations
45:54 - Personal ride testing and tire impressions
50:19 - Fun polls: porta potty choices and daylight savings thoughts
55:50 - Gravel route challenges: freshly laid gravel vs. potholes
58:13 - Wrapping up and upcoming plans, including the vibe at Buck Fifty
277: Bikepacking Shoes, Gadgets & Monster Cross
2026/03/05
Join us each week as we discuss gravel bikes, adventure biking, bikepacking, bike camping, or just playing bikes.
Join Brian & Joey as they share thoughts on gravel biking, bikepacking, and the quirks of bike shoes and gear. This episode covers bike gear hacks, the fun of bikepacking adventures, and humorous takes on cycling fashion.
Nextool Multi-tool: https://amzn.to/4rc1ff0
Topics in this episode:
Bikepacking gear hacks
Cycling shoes and footwear
Humorous cycling stories
276: Dave Pryor & PA Gravel
2026/02/26
Guest: Dave Pryor, Co-Founder of unPAved Pennsylvania
In this episode, we sit down with the man responsible for putting Pennsylvania gravel on the map. Dave Pryor joins us to discuss the "easy on the eyes, hard on the legs" philosophy of his events, why Central PA is the ultimate destination for "IPA Gravel," and the cultural quirks that make riding in the Keystone State a one-of-a-kind experience.
Mentioned in this EpisodeEvents & OrganizationsunPAved Pennsylvania: The flagship gravel event in Lewisburg, PA. (Next main event: October 11, 2026).Higher Ground: A grassroots tour of the history and rugged terrain of Johnstown and the Laurel Highlands.Monkey Knife Fight: Dave’s "hardest charity ride you'll love to hate" in the Lehigh Valley.
Connect with Dave & the TeamOfficial Website: unpavedpennsylvania.comInstagram: @unpavedpennsylvaniaFacebook: unPAved Pennsylvania
Supporting the PodcastIf you enjoyed this deep dive into the gravel backroads of Pennsylvania, please leave us a review and subscribe!
Podcast reviews
Read Mid-Atlantic Gravel, Travel & Dirt podcast reviews
Ben Crannell 2024/02/28
Stoked to find this show!
Love the conversations and relatively local vibe to me in TN. Great interviews!
J-earl 2024/01/08
Like having a great coffee convo with buddies
Just a couple of dudes (and guests) talking bikes and fun. The world famous Ted and the infamous John put me on to this pod and I really like it. A si...
Florida Shakuhachi 2023/09/29
One of the best for quality gravel talk!
Been listening since the beginning and don’t regret a minute!! Great stuff everyone!!
Aldante13 2023/06/04
Needs editing
There’s some good info here, if you are a local. But lots of gibberish and short hand so hard yo follow.
Joe - Park Ridge 2022/08/18
Overall good show
Show is a good listen, but a little less of Brian will make it better. He is a bit too full of himself and talks over everyone.
ChaplainCorey 2021/01/01
Bike knowledge and Friendly Chemistry
This is a great show. The hosts know bikes and gravel, but they also evidently enjoy hanging out and talking about it. Listen closely as you may catch...
Airmaster 3000 2020/09/18
Awesome podcast
I found this podcast while trying to find something to listen to about gravel riding at work, awesome personalities and a great listen, I even started...
WCPack 2020/03/05
Great listen
After listening to the group I was excited to meet them all at the Philly Expo... It was a great time. When you listen you feel like you are sitting a...
Spinning Taco 2020/01/25
Ear Breach at its finest!!!!!
5 stars guys and gal, just recently sampled the podcast and instantly found my peeps!!!! I’m currently a roadie whom was torn between dirt or asphalt....
deadeninghate 2019/12/22
Not my thing, but you might enjoy!
I hung in there for the first 28 episodes. There are some good tidbits of info and good recommendations. This is meant as a fun, weekly gather aroun...
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