Photo via Cyclingnews

Gallery: Big tyres, taped-on tools and lost bidons - All the tech from the toughest UCI Gravel World Championships yet

The 2024 UCI Gravel World Championships in Nannup, Western Australia, delivered a grueling test of endurance and bike tech, with over 80% of the course covered in gravel. The event marked a historic moment as Danish rider Magnus Bak Klaris secured the elite men’s title, becoming the first non-European professional to win the rainbow jersey in gravel racing.

Meanwhile, Dutch cyclist Marianne Vos claimed victory in the elite women’s race, showcasing the fierce competition across both genders. The race also highlighted the latest in gravel-specific equipment, with bikes like the Factor Elara and Canyon Grail CFR featuring generous 57mm tyre clearances to accommodate wider rubber.

Racers relied on taped tools, mixed groupsets, and unconventional handlebar setups, reflecting the adaptability required for the challenging terrain. Innovative wheels, such as Black Inc.’s 30mm-wide, 64mm-deep models, and Roval’s squared-off aero designs, were also on full display, pushing the boundaries of gravel tech.

The event’s dusty finish underscored the raw, unpredictable nature of gravel racing, setting the stage for even more technical advancements next year.

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