Lessons from The Traka

Time to read 3 min

Gravel riding is booming—and nowhere is the thrill of endurance cycling more vividly felt than at The Traka, Girona’s legendary gravel race. With its blend of rugged terrain, stunning scenery, and searing heat, The Traka tests not only your fitness but your strategy, mindset, and gear choices.

We sat down with riders Theo, Ollie, and Will after their recent experience at The Traka to talk preparation, challenges, and the lessons they’ll carry forward. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned gravel grinder, these insights will sharpen your approach to your next big ride.

Photography by Ollie Radford

Three cyclists riding on a sunlit rural gravel road surrounded by green fields, participating in an endurance gravel race.

Start strong: Get to the Line Early

Don’t underestimate the importance of positioning.

“Get to the start as early as possible so you don’t end up at the back from the get-go.” — Will

In mass-start gravel events like The Traka, being caught in the mid-pack can mean bottlenecks, frustration, and wasted energy. Position yourself well early and stay fluid through the bunch—especially on flat sections where group dynamics can save you valuable watts.

Two exhausted cyclists resting and refueling at an aid station during a gravel cycling event, holding hydration bottles and wearing dirt-covered kit.

Efficiency is everything at aid stations

“Don’t spend as long in the aid stations.” — Theo

“Quickly through the aid stations.” — Ollie

In long-distance gravel races, time management is crucial. Quick transitions through aid stations can make or break your rhythm. Know what you need, get it fast, and roll out—your average speed will thank you.

Close-up of gravel bike setup and riders on a dirt road, highlighting gravel-specific gear including hydration packs and cargo bib shorts.

Tyre choice: Go big or go home

Bigger tyres = More comfort and control.

“Run as big tyres as you can fit.” — Theo

Wide, supple tyres are a secret weapon on rocky, loose descents. They improve traction, absorb bumps, and reduce fatigue—key in any technical gravel terrain. All three riders agreed: go as wide as your frame allows.

Gravel cyclists navigating a twisty dirt trail through a forested area, showcasing technical riding and group dynamics in a race setting.

Train smart for gravel climbing

Long climbs need more than park loops.

“Riding around Regent’s Park means nothing when you have 2,500m of off-road climbing.” — Will

Long, punchy climbs with uneven surfaces are a staple of gravel endurance events. While Ollie kept it simple with, “Ride your bike and get the hours in,” Will’s time on steep, rocky climbs in Marseille made a real difference. Specificity matters in training.

Cyclist eating during a gravel race and another kneeling on a gym floor post-ride, showing nutrition and gear used during endurance events.

Hydration and nutrition: Fuel the fire

“Drink mix always—means you can rehydrate and keep getting carbs in.” — Theo

“Salt tabs and electrolytes important on a hot day.” — Ollie

"Nutella sandwiches went down a treat.” — Will

When you’re in the saddle for 8–12 hours, fuel strategy is as critical as fitness. Drink mixes that combine electrolytes and carbs help keep hydration and energy steady. Simple, high-carb snacks like rice, sandwiches, or sweets can also keep morale high in the late hours.

Close-up of gravel bike tyres kicking up dust on a dry dirt road during an off-road cycling race, highlighting terrain and tyre grip.

Descents: The Real Challenge of Gravel Riding

“The descents were a full-body workout—no reward for the climb.” — Will

“Loose rocky descents with lots of riders around you kept you on your toes.” — Theo

Unlike road cycling, gravel descents are unpredictable and exhausting. Body position, core strength, and mental focus matter as much as braking technique. It’s part of what makes gravel racing uniquely demanding—and addictive.

Cyclist with jersey and shorts pockets loaded with snacks including a banana, and another eating orange slices at a race checkpoint.

Kit choices: More than just style

“Cargo bibs were so useful—you can carry more and access fuel easily.” — Theo

“First time in cargo shorts—much more useful than expected.” — Ollie

“White Chroma jersey kept me cool and looked great caked in dirt.” — Will

Technical gear can dramatically improve your experience on the bike. From cargo bib shorts that let you store snacks within easy reach, to lightweight jerseys and protective mitts, having the right kit can boost comfort and performance all day long.

Three cyclists resting after a gravel ride, with one showing a bloodied knee injury and others eating oranges beside helmets and gear.

Soak it all in: The joy of gravel adventures

“Take some time to take in the views—such a great place to ride your bike.” — Ollie

Gravel riding is about more than performance—it’s about freedom, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re bombing a descent, cruising in a peloton across the plains, or sipping drink mix by a sunlit aid station, these rides are made for memories.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re preparing for The Traka, Dirty Kanza, or your own local gravel epic, remember: start early, train smart, fuel often, and ride wide tyres. But above all—enjoy the ride. Because on gravel, the journey is every bit as rewarding as the finish line.