EfferVelo FAQ’s
Check out our FAQ’s below for all the information on Effervelo Gravel event.
If we haven’t answered your question hit us up via the chat (bottom right) or buzz an email on contact page
What is Effervelo?
Effervelo is an exciting new gravel riding event organised by Rocky Trail Entertainment. It offers a unique and immersive experience on Champagne Gravel surfaces, aiming to capture the essence of gravel riding while exploring beautiful Australian landscapes.
Starting at Cotter Reserve just 30 minutes outside of Canberra we take you on low-traffic gravel roads. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, and uncover hidden gems along the way. Get ready for awe-inspiring views and unforgettable moments.
Who can participate in Effervelo?
Effervelo welcomes riders of all backgrounds and skill levels. Whether you are an experienced gravel enthusiast seeking a challenge, a road rider looking to venture off the beaten path, or a mountain biker seeking new horizons, Effervelo has something for everyone.
What are the distance options available?
Effervelo offers three distance challenges to cater to riders of different skill levels: Short (45 km), Medium (65 km), and Long (101 km). Choose the distance that suits your preferences and push yourself beyond your comfort zone.
What type of terrain should I expect?
Effervelo takes you along low-traffic gravel roads, ensuring a sense of tranquility and a connection with nature’s untamed beauty. The terrain may vary from smooth and compacted gravel to sections with a bit more of a challenge, providing an exciting and diverse riding experience. Check out the Course Maps for distance and elevation information of the ride options.
What are the tracks like?
This event offers 3 distance options; all three distance options are basically figure eights. The route starts at Cotter Reserve and takes you into the Brindabella Ranges. All 3 loops start with a big climb to fire up the legs right away.
Short Loop – is a beautiful ride with everything – sharp descent, beautiful vistas of the dam, flat champagne gravel, ride along the river, climb to the first checkpoint 1 (feedzone) then return via undulating terrain.
Middle Loop – continues from checkpoint 1 (feedzone) and that’s where the climbing challenge starts, grit, endurance and gravel riding skills will be put to the test. Steady and relatively gentle climb to checkpoint 2 (water, energy) then fast roads back towards checkpoint 1 (feedzone) – careful, open to public traffic, so watch out for any cars and a hard right hand-turn (clearly marked) on a fast descent – undulating terrain and you’re back at checkpoint 1 (feedzone), then return to the finish.
Long Loop – continues from checkpoint 2 (water, energy) and we’re in the total wilderness now, untouched landscapes and we have a special permission to ride along these gravel roads. The terrain changes and the tracks are getting quite rough especially for gravel bikes as these roads are rarely used. A fast descent and then some steep, hard climbing before you’re at the southern most point of the Effervelo route – you’re half-way on your ride and can be proud of the 80% of climbing that you’ve done for the day! Mostly downhill from there, but leave some juice in the tank and refuel regularly to tackle the undulating terrain back to checkpoint 1 (feedzone).
Check out the Course Maps for distance and elevation information and a more detailed description of the ride options.
Are the routes marked and supported?
Yes. Effervelo provides simple course markings and signage to ensure you stay on the right track. Additionally, we ask that all participants ride with a GPS-device and follow the GPX files that will be made available to for navigation ahead of the event. Our dedicated support crew will be stationed along the routes to assist and provide any necessary support throughout the event.
What services and amenities are included in the event?
Effervelo offers a fully-catered journey with delicious and nourishing food, including local specialties and high-quality sports nutrition. There will also be a selection of coffee, drinks (including bubbles and finisher beer!), and refreshments to keep you fueled and hydrated throughout the event.
Start at event hub – will offer coffee and snack vendor in the morning (bring card/cash)
Feed zones – will offer electrolyte hydration and high-quality sports nutrition to keep you fueled, plus energy snacks and fresh fruit (incl. in entry)
Finish at event hub – will provide recovery nutrition after the ride – a delicious finisher menu awaits with a great selection of grab-and-go and warm meals and finisher drink (incl. in entry)
Is there a time limit for completing the routes?
Effervelo encourages participants to challenge themselves, but we understand that everyone rides at their own pace. While there is no strict time limit, we recommend planning your ride based on your fitness level and the distance you choose. Our support crew will be available until the end of the event to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I participate as part of a team?
Effervelo is primarily an individual riding event, but you are welcome to ride and connect with other participants along the routes. The social aspect of gravel riding is highly encouraged, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet fellow gravel enthusiasts and share the experience.
Do I need a specific type of bike for Effervelo?
Effervelo is a dedicated Gravel Ride. The route has been selected with gravel bikes in mind, however, mountain bikers are welcome! E-Bikes are welcome, Rocky Trail’s eBike Policy applies.
Who owns and organises Effervelo?
The Effervelo Gravel Ride was created by Rocky Trail Entertainment, inspired by Champagne Gravel. We have been racing on rocky trails since 2008. With 50 annual events and are one of Australia’s major private MTB event organisers. This year we expect 12,000 racers at Superflow® gravity, ultraendurance, marathon and lap-based races as well as a schools programme across the East Coast of Australia.
We are thrilled to embark on this exciting new chapter, venturing onto the “rocky roads” with our new Effervelo Gravel Event. Building upon our renowned expertise in the cycling and mountain biking world, we are expanding our horizons to embrace the thrill and adventure of gravel riding.
We’re eager to connect with new riders and share the exhilaration of tackling rugged, unpaved paths. We are also excited to mobilise our existing and dedicated racing community, offering a fresh opportunity to participate in our ride and in a different cycling discipline.
Join us at the Effervelo Champagne Gravel Quest and let’s conquer new horizons (and rocky roads) together!
How do I register for Effervelo?
To secure your spot in the Effervelo event, visit our Registration page on the website and follow the instructions provided. Choose your preferred distance challenge and complete the registration process. Hurry, as spots may be limited! We ask that you sign up online via this page.
If you have any additional questions or require further information, please feel free to contact us via the online chat tool (bottom right corner of your screen) or email rider@rockytrailentertainment.com. We look forward to welcoming you to the exciting world of Effervelo!
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