2019 Gravel Gobbler

I love fall gravel riding. When the mountain bike trails are soggy, it’s time to hit the gravel roads! On Saturday, Jordan and I met up with our friends Margaret and Jeff for the Gravel Gobbler, a gravel ride that starts at S&S Brewery in Nassau.

The great thing about the Gobbler is that the proceeds go directly to the Regional Food Bank of NY–such a great cause! Jordan and I were originally planning to stick to the shorter, 23-mile gravel route, but got talked into riding the 38-mile route instead.

The route was very similar to most of the other gravel rides I’ve done (the first gravel gobbler, the farmer’s daughter, the farmer’s fatty), which is great because, despite the grueling climbs, I’ve loved riding out here!

The weather was predicted to be sunny with highs in the 50s. What to wear? I decided on riding with long tights (with built-in chamois) with my mountain bike shorts over them, a long sleeve base layer and a light wind jacket. I also wore wool socks with waterproof/windproof shoe covers over them. I’m glad I wore the shoe covers because my toes would have been cold! I started out with a lightweight insulated vest but packed it away after the first big climb. I’m still figuring out the clothing situation for cold weather gravel riding!

Gravel Gobbler
Distance 37.9 miles
Elevation 3,463′
Total time 4:24 minutes
Average speed 10 mph

After the ride we got to enjoy tasty beverages at S&S-they never disappoint! Jordan and I also had some delicious pulled pork grilled cheese sandwiches from the food truck. Overall it was a great day. The gobbler cookie didn’t hurt either!