Suffolk Gravel X
From Glorious Gravel
Event summary
Whether you're a seasoned gravel enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, the SUFFOLK GRAVEL X has something for everyone. Choose between long and medium routes designed to cater to various fitness levels, all on smooth, fast-flowing gravel paths. With minimal climbs and an overall flat terrain, this event is ideal for riders looking to kick off the season with a thrilling challenge. Participants can look forward to a well-organized day, starting with ride registration at 7:45 AM, followed by briefings and group starts from 8:00 to 8:45 AM. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of Suffolk on two wheels!
Suffolk Gravel X
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Previous editions
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Reviews
5.01 review
Took part in the 2022 edition · 4 years ago
Route was very well signposted.
Feed stations were sufficient. Thanks to all voluntary helpers.
Races
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Suffolk Gravel X - Long Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
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Suffolk Gravel X - Medium Route
Entries closed08:00
£62.72
Event information
This all new route starts at High Lodge in the heart of Thetford Forest and heads onto the gravel straight away. The first 11km is all in the forest on fast & flat terrain before we head south for a couple of small climbs as we head out to King’s Forest.
We spend 20km mostly on gravel with a couple of connecting back roads in the King’s Forest before heading out to Euston & Thetford before heading back to the forest for a final 10km on the gravel.
There are no tough sections on the route and ride times should be 4 to 6hrs, an ideal way to start an epic 2025 on the gravel!
Percentage of Route Off Road: 75%
Distance: 77km
Elevation: 400m
MEDIUM ROUTE
A perfect ride for newer gravel cyclists or a relaxed final sportive of the gravel season. The medium route follows the long route until the split near the 45km mark in the Kings Forest and heads straight back into Thetford Forest for the last 16km. You can choose on the day to do the long route if the legs are feeling good at the split.
Percentage of Route Off Road: 80%
Distance: 60km
Elevation: 300m
Our team work tirelessly to create the best gravel routes in the UK. All courses are fully signed so you can just enjoy the ride.
Checkpoints with proper food
An epic ride deserves proper support. We have tea, coffee and cake at the first feed and sandwiches & crisps at the main feed. Checkpoints are approx every 30-35km
Accurate GPX Files
A few days before the ride, we will send GPX files for all of the route options so you can follow the course on your GPS as well as the signs.
Mechanics Available
At the rider village & at selected feed stops we have mechanics available to help with any bike issues. We also have spare inner tubes, CO2 & more.
Rider Support Vans
We are here to make sure you have a great day on the gravel. If you have any major mechanicals or need collecting, support vehicles are a phone call away.
Beer at Finish Line
You will be greeted at the finish line with a beer & food available from our food truck. Perfect to chat about your day with fellow riders.
The nearest big town is Thetford which has lots of accommodation options and restaurants / pubs.
The nearest train station is Thetford (2 miles away).
Bike spares
2 x inner tubes suitable for the size of your tyre
If running a tubeless set up, have a tubeless repair kit including plugs and spare sealant.
Multitool | Chain link specific for your bike chain
Small pump | Brake pads (especially in wet conditions)
Personal Medical kit
1 x crepe roll bandage | Gauze or similar absorbent dressing
Assorted plasters | Antiseptic (spray, cream or wipes) | Prescribed medication
Organiser's description
A perfect starter ender in glorious Suffolk. This all new route stays in the Thetford & Kings Forest for almost the entire ride with 75% of the route off road.
The gravel here is as good as anywhere in the South of England with miles and miles of smooth sections through picturesque countryside & forest. Suitable for new & experienced gravel riders alike.
RIDE HIGHLIGHTS:
An all new route with over 75% of the route off road on fast flowing, smooth gravel, this is ideal for all riders.
Stunning sections through Thetford & Kings Forest and pretty Suffolk villages.
Perfect season starter with a flat / rolling route and options for long or medium routes depending on how the legs are feeling.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The vast majority of this route is flat on smooth fire roads through Thetford & Kings Forest. Please note – the trails in Kings Forest are being worked on, if this is not finished by March the route will change and be 50/50 road to gravel but still on flat terrain.
RIDE DIFFICULTY
Out of all our rides, this is one of the most straight forward with no major climbs. The route is rolling and flows well on smooth fire roads.
Long Route **
Medium Route *
TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY
75% of the route is on fire roads through Thetford Forest & Kings Forest with no rocky sections. There are some sandy parts which can be challenging to ride on if you are new to it but these are short and the vast majority of the gravel in the forests are smoother fire roads.
Long Route **
Medium Route **
TYRE & BIKE RECOMMENDATIONS
This route is designed for gravel bikes but you will be fine on a hardtail MTB. We do send out tyre recommendations closer to the time. A wider tyre is helpful for the sand but an all-rounder, 35-45mm will be fine for this route.
EVENT PROGRAM
20th March: GPX files and pre ride briefing sent by email to each rider.
22nd March: 7.45am: Ride village at Thetford Forest opens. Collecting your ride number takes approx 10 mins.
22nd March: 8am to 8,45amm: Ride start. We will give you a short ride briefing and set you off in small groups.
22nd March: 6pm: Rider village closes.
22nd March: 7pm: Link to ride times & rider photos sent to each participant by email.
Location
Thetford Forest, Brandon, UK
Suffolk Gravel X
Glorious Gravel
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