Why the Gravel Scene Is Eating Road Racing’s Lunch

Gravel didn’t just show up, it exploded. Why? Freedom. No cars, no closed-course permits, no 20-page UCI rulebook.

It’s racing, but it’s also adventure. You can have pros at the front hammering, and weekend warriors rolling in hours later with the same finish-line beer.

The industry loves it because it sells new bikes, new gear, and a whole lifestyle. Riders love it because it’s fun, something road racing forgot for a while.

The lesson for roadies: maybe it’s time to bring the soul back. Not every ride needs to be a training plan data point.