The Morning Cycles Gravel Rides
Around Brussels, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes.
It's so much nicer to discover them in good company. To explore them without any hassle, and to train while meeting interesting people in a warm atmosphere, join the Morning Cycles Gravel Rides.
Frequently asked questions
☀️ What is a Gravel ride with Morning Cycles?
Gravel Rides are bike adventures of a few hours, on mixed terrain, mapped out by our team especially for you! These routes combine tarmac roads and gravel tracks. The level and length of each ride are given in the invitation. Most of the time, rides come in an easy version and a sportier one.
🦥 Who can take part?
Anyone over 16 can take part on their own. Young people under 16 and children are welcome on the easy routes, but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
The rides are mixed and the focus is on inclusivity.
The main language is French, but everyone easily speaks English and sometimes Dutch. Bienvenue, Welkom & Welcome!
⛰️ How hard are the routes?
The difficulty depends on the route you choose. We offer options for different levels: easy loops for beginners, and more demanding routes for experienced riders. Each ride is clearly described to help you pick the one that suits you best: length, elevation and intensity. A good tip: for your first Gravel Ride, don’t overestimate yourself and go for the easy route. You can always aim for the next level on the next ride.
🚲 What kind of bike do I need?
A “gravel bike” is recommended. These ultra-versatile bikes are at ease on roads and cobbled paths alike, and even better on gravel tracks. That said, if you have a mountain bike or a sturdy hybrid, you will manage too.
For these rides, definitely avoid road bikes and city bikes: you will struggle to keep up and something might break. If you dream of a well-suited gravel bike at a fair price, Morning Cycles can advise you.
Watch out! Come to the start with a bike in perfect working order. If needed, drop by the shop well before the ride for a few adjustments and a safety check.
☀️ What services are there at the start? At the finish?
At the start - coffee, tea and pastries are sometimes on offer. Check the calendar for this. You can always pump up your tyres, lube your chain and fill your bottles for free. Usually, you can complete your gear with a quick purchase before the start (gloves, multitool, inner tube…). The staff there may fine-tune an urgent adjustment, but only very briefly. Clearly, the most comfortable option is to arrive well prepared.
At the finish - a bike wash is usually available to give your bike a good clean. A friendly drink is offered, sometimes included in the price, sometimes paid. The GPX tracks stay available after the ride, and you can ride the loop again as often as you like.
🎒 What should I bring?
As well as your bike, bring:
📞 A GPS or a mobile phone, ideally with a navigation app (Komoot, Strava, OsmAnd, RouteYou, …).
☂️ Clothing suited to the weather (cycling shorts, windproof jacket, insulating layer, gloves, hat, glasses, a helmet if you wish).
🛠️ A minimal repair kit (multitool, mini pump, inner tube, tyre levers).
🍉 Enough water and snacks.
New to gravel? Our teams will be happy to advise you!
🍀 Can I count on support if something goes wrong?
Morning Cycles offers no support if something goes wrong. You are expected to find your own way, follow the GPS track provided, cope on your own with any technical trouble and take full care of your own safety. There is no technical support on the route and no road captain. The group is led by a team member riding at an average pace, but you are free to ride ahead of them or go more slowly at your own pace, possibly with other riders. The GPS track lets you ride the whole route and reach the finish. Remember to note your fellow riders’ phone numbers and share your location online to make it easier to find each other.
🚀 Will I be up to it for a first ride?
“Easy” rides are within reach of anyone who rides regularly in daily life. People with heart or joint problems, excess weight, diabetes or other conditions must get their doctor’s approval before taking part in our rides. On “easy” routes, the focus is on solidarity and looking out for each other. If something goes wrong, the other participants will usually make sure you get the help you need. Remember, however, that the rides are self-supported and always at your own risk.
⛈️ What happens in bad weather?
Safety is our priority. If the weather forecast is bad, the ride may be postponed. Participants will be told in advance and a new date will be offered.
📋 How do I sign up?
On the news page of our website, you will find the calendar of the next Gravel rides, detailed information on each route and a sign-up form.
