What is gravel?

Get to Know Gravel Cycling – and Birken’s New Gravel Races

Text: Birken / Photo: Emil S Nyeng

Gravel biking is the big trend in the cycling world – a freer, more social, and nature-based way to ride, where the route often leads off the beaten track. In this article, we explain what gravel really is, how it differs from other cycling disciplines – and why Birken is now launching its own gravel races.

What is gravel?
Gravel is a form of cycling that combines the best of road and mountain biking. You ride on gravel roads, forest trails, dirt paths, and light singletrack – often over long distances. A gravel bike has wider tires than a road bike but is lighter and faster than a mountain bike. The result? A versatile cycling experience that gives you both speed and flow across varied terrain.

Gravel biking offers space for both adventure and competition – and you set the pace. Some ride far and slow with a backpack and thermos. Others push their limits in demanding races with technical sections, long distances, and high speeds. And both approaches are equally valid.

Vebjørn Rønning – project manager for GravelBirken and an avid gravel cyclist.

A Cycling Culture on the Rise
Gravel is more than just a type of bike. It’s an attitude toward cycling – where freedom, community, and experience matter more than watts and power meters. For Vebjørn Rønning, project manager for GravelBirken and one of Norway’s most experienced gravel riders, that’s part of what makes gravel unique:

“What fascinates me most about gravel is the inclusive culture. It’s social, low-threshold, and informal – even at the elite level. You ride with friends, have fun, and enjoy the nature along the way,” he says.

Vebjørn has competed internationally in gravel races with top results in events like The Rift and the UCI Grit’n Grind. Now, he’s using that experience to develop gravel races on Norwegian trails and gravel roads – with Birken quality at the core.

Why is Birken investing in gravel?
Gravel roads and mountain passes have always been part of the Birken tradition. Now we’re taking it a step further. In 2025, GravelBirken will launch – two new gravel races that combine mountains, flow, and raw pedal power.

“We see that gravel is growing rapidly in Norway. At the same time, there are still few dedicated races. We want to offer an event that reflects the international gravel scene – while being tailored to Norwegian terrain,” says Vebjørn.

GravelBirken 100 km
For those curious about gravel and looking for a real challenge – without having to navigate by GPS.

Approx. 1,800 meters of elevation gain
Less technical, well-marked course
Neutral start zone (for safety)
Low entry barrier, high sense of achievement

“This is a new concept – not a lighter version of the Birkebeiner race. We want to make gravel more accessible and give people a positive first experience,” explains Vebjørn.

GravelBirken 200 km
For experienced riders who want to test themselves on a course inspired by international gravel classics like Unbound and The Traka.

Approx. 3,300 meters of elevation gain
Technically demanding terrain
GPS navigation required
Stream crossings, trails, and flow sections

“This isn’t an extension of the Birkebeiner race. It’s a brand-new event – and a pilot. We’re testing, evaluating, and developing as we go. Next year will be different – this is just the beginning.”

Is gravel for you?
Gravel is perfect for those who enjoy adventure, variety, and nature. Whether you ride for fitness, fulfillment, or speed – gravel offers something truly unique:

“I got hooked because I could ride far, explore new places, and use the bike as a tool for freedom. It’s a completely different experience from sitting in a pack in traffic,” says Vebjørn.

What do you need to get started?
A gravel bike – or even a mountain bike with narrower tires – is enough to begin with. Vebjørn also recommends bringing this gear on your rides:

Tubes, pump, and CO₂ cartridges
Multitool and quick link
Plenty of food and drink – ideally a hydration pack
An extra jacket and anything you might need for unexpected situations

Vebjørn’s tips for beginners:

Don’t buy the most expensive gear – buy something that can handle rough use
Choose a bike you can maintain yourself
Always bring more nutrition than you think you'll need
Remember: gravel is slower than road biking – plan accordingly

Gravel is here to stay
Gravel is about more than bikes. It’s about freedom, community, experience, and new ways to enjoy nature. And here at Birken, we’re excited to help grow this cycling culture in Norway.

“Gravel, for me? One word: Experience.”