Matt Stephens and Phoebe Sneddon's
Local Gravel Adventure
After Matt Stephens was treated to an introduction to gravel cycling with doctor, mum and off-road cycling expert, Phoebe Sneddon, Matt met up with Phoebe again to put the skills he learned into practice with a gravel ride around the pair's local trails in the Peak District.
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The Route
Matt and Phoebe tackled a range of terrain, from steep climbs and hike-a-bike sections to technical descents and scenic vistas. Taking on a 68km route, you too can ride and explore some of the most beautiful trails Derbyshire has to offer by clicking the link below and downloading the route file from Garmin Connect to your GPS device.
Matt and Phoebe's ride essentials
Ensuring both Matt and Phoebe remained comfortable throughout the ride and enabling them to get the most out of their time on the trails the pair carefully selected a range of products. From the bikes to the clothing, the GPS devices to the on-bike luggage, no stone was left unturned when it came to preparing for a day on the gravel. Read on to find out what Matt and Phoebe used on their local gravel adventure.
Navigation
Heading off the beaten track can come with the added challenge of more complex routing. To combat this both Matt and Phoebe used Garmin's ultra-impressive Edge 840 Solar GPS Cycling Computer to help both navigate around the route and to assist when it comes to pacing their efforts and getting a much-needed insight into the terrain that lay ahead. With solar technology, this Garmin Edge 840 is a reliable and efficient choice for those looking to go the distance, whether that be like Matt and Phoebe on a local loop, or something longer and further afield.
The Bikes
No gravel ride would be quite complete without a super capable gravel bike, capable of taking on whatever the trails throw your way. Specialized has a long and illustrious history in this discipline and their Diverge range is market-leading. For this ride, Matt opted for the Specialized Diverge Expert Carbon Rival AXS Disc Gravel Bike while Phoebe chose to add additional suspension to her rig, with the toptube mounted Future Shock System, and clipped in on the Specialized's Diverge STR Pro Gravel Bike.
Matt's Kit
Dressed not just for the conditions but also with style on the trails in mind, Matt Stephens opted for Danish brand, Pas Normal Studios' Escapism range of clothing for this ride. Designed specifically for the rigours of off-road riding, this gravel-focused collection comprises of the Escapism Light Short Sleeve Jersey, Escapism Bib Short, Escapism Performance Fleece Gilet, Escapism Knit Arm Warmers and Escapism Knit Leg Warmers. Shrugging off showers and ensuring the wind is kept off his chest, the Mechanism Stow Away Jacket proved a handy addition to Matt's wardrobe. Channeling in his inner Grand Tour winner, Matt donned the rather cool Tadej Pogacar Edition, MET Trenta 3K Carbon MIPS Helmet and slipped into a pair of Specialized S-Works Recon Lace Gravel and MTB Shoes to complete the look.
Off the bike, a Universal Colours Mono Fleece has long been Matt's go to when it comes to keeping comfortable and warm when not on the saddle.
Phoebe's Kit
Earthy tones and organic vibes, Phoebe had fun picking her gravel outfit from Universal Colours' Volume 7 range as well as existing garments in the brand's fantastic collection. A Spectrum Light Womens Short Sleeve Jersey kicks off the look and has been paired with a Chroma Insulated Unisex Gilet. Keeping the chill off, arm warmers are an essential item for changeable conditions, as is the Chroma Womens Rain Jacket. Comfortable and a stand-out favourite for many, the Universal Colours Mono Womens Bib Short was on Phoebe's wishlist, in a stylish navy blue colour. Mono Summer Socks add a fine finishing touch, especially when combined with Specialized S-Works Recon SL MTB Shoes.
Bags
Whether it be nutrition, tools or stowing away that essential rain jacket or pair of arm warmers, having on-bike storage options is a must for peace of mind. Apidura are experts in keeping riders' possessions easy to hand, with their wide range that covers everything from handlebar and frame bags to seatpacks and toptube bags. Durable, easy to attach and even easier to access, it is no wonder both Matt and Phoebe opted for Apidura for their local gravel adventure.