Dirty big bear
The Dirty Big Bear gravel ride, as documented by Canadian cyclist Jonathan Stevens, offers an exciting and challenging experience for gravel riding enthusiasts. Spanning approximately 25.2 miles and lasting just under two hours, this route climbs around 1880 feet, making it an ideal outing for those seeking endurance and scenic variety. The ride features diverse terrain, including dirt trails and gravel pathways that require skillful navigation and a well-prepared bike. Powered by GPS technology such as Garmin and mapping services like Esri Maps, riders can accurately track their progress, speed bursts—peaking at 35 mph—and elevation changes. This route is particularly notable for its location near Big Bear City, which provides natural beauty and a thrilling backdrop. Riders can use the Relive app to visualize the ride afterward, offering motivation and insights for improvement. To prepare for a ride like this, it is important to equip appropriate gravel bikes with durable tires and gear that accommodates varying road surfaces. Hydration, nutrition, and safety equipment are also essential for handling the elevation gain and maintaining energy over the nearly two-hour duration. Additionally, riders should familiarize themselves with the route map and download tracking apps onto devices compatible with Android or iOS for real-time navigation and post-ride analysis. Gravel riding events like this also help build community among cycling enthusiasts, encouraging riders to share their experiences and improve technique. Whether you are an intermediate or advanced cyclist, integrating rides like the Dirty Big Bear gravel route into your training can enhance endurance, bike handling skills, and appreciation of the outdoors.
