Whether in Wallonia or around Brussels, there's no shortage of beautiful landscapes.
It's so much nicer to discover them with good company. To explore them without any hassle, get some exercise, and meet interesting people in a friendly atmosphere, join the Gravel Rides of Morning Cycles.
Our Gravel Rides are cycling adventures lasting a few hours, mapped out on mixed paths by our team just for you! These routes combine asphalt roads and gravel trails. The level and length of each ride are specified in the invitation. Most of the time, rides come in both an easy and a more challenging version.
Anyone over 16 years of age may take part alone. Under-16s and children are welcome on easy routes, but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Rides are mixed and the emphasis is on inclusivity.
The main language is French, but everyone communicates fluently in English and occasionally in Dutch. Bienvenue, Welkom & Welcome!
Difficulty varies according to the route chosen. We offer options for different levels: easy tours for beginners as well as more demanding routes for experienced cyclists. Each ride is clearly described to help you choose the one that suits you best: length, gradient and intensity. A word of advice: for your first Gravel Ride, don't overestimate yourself and opt for the easy route. You can always aim for a higher level on your next ride.
A "gravel bike" is recommended. These super versatile bikes are comfortable on roads and paved paths, and they really shine on gravel trails. However, if you have a mountain bike or a sturdy hybrid, you'll be fine too.
For these rides, definitely avoid road bikes or city bikes, as you'll struggle to keep up and might even damage your bike. If you're dreaming of a well-suited gravel bike at a fair price, Morning Cycles can help you out.
Heads up! Please show up at the start with a bike in perfect working order. If needed, pop into the shop well before the ride for some adjustments and a safety check.
At the start - Sometimes we offer coffee, tea and pastries. See the agenda for details. It's always possible to inflate your tires, lubricate your chain and fill your water bottles free of charge. Generally, you can complete your equipment with a quick purchase before setting off (gloves, multitool, inner tube, etc.). The staff may be able to fine-tune an urgent adjustment, but only to a limited extent. Obviously, the most comfortable thing is to arrive well-prepared.
Upon your return - a bike wash is usually available to clean your bike. A friendly drink is offered, sometimes included in the price, sometimes for a fee. GPX tracks remain available after the ride, and you can repeat the tour as often as you like afterwards.
In addition to your bike, please have:
📞 A GPS or mobile phone, preferably with a navigation app (Komoot, Strava, OsmAnd, RouteYou, ...).
☂️ Clothing suitable for the weather (cycling shorts, windbreaker jacket, insulating layer, gloves, hat, glasses, helmet if you wish).
🛠️ A minimal repair kit (multitool, mini-pump, inner tube, tire levers).
🍉 Enough water and snacks.
New to gravel riding? Our team will be super happy to advise you!
Morning Cycles offers no assistance in the event of a problem. You are expected to be able to find your way on your own, to follow the GPS track provided, to take care of yourself in the event of technical problems, and to be entirely responsible for your own safety. There is no technical assistance in the field, and no route captain. The group is led by a team member who proceeds at an average pace, but you can go ahead and outrun him or her, or go more slowly at your own pace, possibly with other cyclists. The GPS track allows you to complete the entire route and reach the finish. Don't forget to note down the phone numbers of your fellow cyclists, and share your position online to make it easier to find each other.
"Easy" level rides are affordable for anyone riding regularly on a daily basis. People with heart, joint, weight, diabetic or other conditions must obtain their doctor's approval before taking part in our rides. In the "easy" courses, the emphasis is on solidarity and looking out for others. In the event of a problem, other participants will usually be on hand to help. However, as a reminder, rides are self-guided and always under your own responsibility..
Safety is our top priority. In the event of unfavorable weather forecasts, the rides may be postponed. Participants will be informed in advance and a new date will be proposed.
On the news page of our website, you'll find the calendar of upcoming Gravel Rides, detailed information on each route and a registration form.
