Saddle up for an epic adventure riding around… up, over, through… the Akatawara Forest. The Akatawara Gravel Fondo is on, so mark down the 12th of January 2020!

What the Hell is a Gravel Fondo?

Gravel grinding is the best way to use your ‘cross bike over the summer! Gravel Fondos are totes #trendingrightnow. I’ve spent heaps of time exploring our local gravel offerings over the years and have come to the conclusion we have some mega rad stuff right here on our doorstep. So, it’s time to share!

Read more general info about Gravel Fondos here…

What Should I Expect?

Route:

A value for money day out with distances that will lull you into a false sense of security. There are two routes to choose from – 55km or 95km. Remember these sound short but they have a hefty dose of Vitamin G and a truckload of vm.

Climbing:

Lots. I love it. So will you. The 55km route clocks up over 1,200m while it’s something like 2,800m for the big ol’ 95km option.

Gravel:

Lots. Less cars. Epic AF views. There’s only 31km of sealed road for the 95km route and 27km sealed road for the 55km.

Pace:

Whatever you like. I reckon a group roll out from the start would be fun but from there on you can ride as slow or as fast as you like. Faster riders are not expected to wait for slower riders to allow everyone to have fun. Groups will no doubt form naturally. Drag mates along to share the day or enjoy the tranquility of going solo. There is no tail end Charlie (unless someone nominates themselves as lantern rouge!).

Where?

Start/Finish: Harcourt Park, Upper Hutt. Probs roll out about 8am but time TBC.

How Much?

Free!!! I’m organising this for a bit of fun and cos I fondly remember the Hinakura 100 which was run in a similar spirit. This is NOT a formal race event. The emphasis of this organised ride is to provide a kickass gravel adventure over some of my favourite riding as well as sharing the stoke with a group of good sorts. Hopefully we get sunshine… But it’s Welly so who knows.

What Should I Bring?

Bike: You will mostly be riding on gravel roads with some tarseal. Most of the gravel is good quality but it definitely gets a bit lumpier in the depths of the Akas. Your CX/gravel bike with 35-40mm tyres will be perfect for the job. Slicks are NOT recommended, you will want to run something with a bit of tread but it need not be crazy gnarly. You can always ride your MTB if you prefer. But #dropbarsnotbombs keeps it authentic.

Gearing: This is Wellington. Some climbing is steep. Give this some consideration. You only have yourself to blame if you leave your rear mech at home.

Spares: This ride is self-supported. In places it is VERY remote. There are no sag wagons, no domestiques, no feed zones and in some areas, no cell phone coverage. Prepare to be self sufficient and bring your own spares and repairs (recommended minimum one tube, two if you’re not running tubeless) and carry plenty of water and food.

Clothing: Something sensible depending on weather conditions. You don’t need to carry a space blanket if it’s a sunny day but be mindful that it’s a long day out and weather conditions can change.

Garmin or any other brand of reliable GPS: See below!

Other Stuff:

Refuel Options: There is a refuel point on both routes handily located around half way. If you’re on the 55km you can call in at Pauatahanui. If you’re on the 95km route then Paekakariki awaits your arrival. Both spots have great cafes and a dairy. Bring cash monies or a card!

Timing: This ride is a challenge and is NOT timed. You get what you pay for LOL (please refer to the FREE comment above!). No doubt some peeps will use Strava so upload your ride there if comparing your time to others is important to you. Chapeau if you bag a QOM/KOM out there!

Navigation: Neither route will be marked. Route descriptions will be provided. It is highly recommended that you upload a route file to your GPS to follow. These will be available nearer game day. I wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise this early on.

Checkpoints: Just to keep you motivated and keep it fun, orienteering clippers will be placed at checkpoints. There will be 4 checkpoints on the shorter route and 9 on the longer route. You’ll be given instructions about where to find the checkpoints in the week leading up to the ride. At the start of the ride, you’ll be provided with a card to clip as you go. This card is yours to keep as a souvenir from a rad day spent on bikes.

Prizes: Great memories, rad photos for your social and a souvenir card which will have lots of holes punched in it by the time you finish. What more could you want?

Safety: All roads are open. This includes all dirt/forestry roads. Keep left and avoid hooning around blind corners in case you need to stop for walkers, other cyclists, motorised vehicles or any other obstacle that may be in your way. I’m off duty.

Disclaimer: You are participating in this organised ride at your own risk!

I’m not putting this on here to promote it hard out mainly cos I spend enough time doing that during the ‘cross season! Feel free to share with likeminded souls.