Gravel Glory: My Unexpected 600km Adventure on the Colnago Y1Rs
When we think about cycling adventures, the first image that comes to mind might be an old-school gravel rig or a mountain bike conquering rugged terrains. What if I told you that one of the sleekest aero race bikes on the market, the Colnago Y1Rs, was my companion on a daring 600km mixed-surface ride? That’s right! I threw caution to the wind, swapped my trusted endurance bike for a feather-light speedster, and ventured into the unknown.
Embracing the Challenge
Let’s face it: the Colnago Y1Rs is undoubtedly engineered for one purpose— speed. But why should a bike’s design dictate our cycling potential? Most of us don’t have the luxury of a dedicated bike for every adventure. While taking an aero race bike on gravel might seem counterintuitive, it’s proof that our gear shouldn’t box us in. With a bit of creativity and planning, I transformed the Y1Rs into a surprisingly capable endurance machine.
Preparing for the Ride
The first hurdle to overcome was adapting the bike for a longer journey. The original outfront mount for the Y1Rs left much to be desired, and I needed a solution for my trusty action camera. A quick online search led me to FramesandGear’s mount, but of course, it was out of stock. This is where thinking on your feet comes into play. A borrowed Trek mount got the job done, but a few extra adapters in my kit helped along the way.
Then came the tire situation. For my mixed-surface ride, I opted for the Pirelli P ZERO Race TLR RS tires, which provided the perfect blend of speed and sturdiness, making the rough asphalt as comfortable as possible.
The Adventure Unfolds
The adventure itself proved to be exhilarating. Originally, the plan was to tackle the 500k ride continuously, but rain forced a change. I strategically broke the journey into manageable segments: a ride to Lebanon, Oregon, followed by the Swift Summit 200—200 miles of mixed surfaces—and back home via a less direct but scenic route.
Over three days, I covered a remarkable 600km, relishing every climb and descent. The only real challenge? The low gearing on the Y1Rs wasn’t favored for steep, gravel climbs. But guess what? A challenge is just an opportunity for creativity.
Packing Light, Riding Smart
With limited mounting options on the bike, I had to travel light. My POC Ultra Cycling Vest and Pedal Ed Odyssey jersey allowed me to carry essentials confidently— hydration packs, tools, and snacks. I also made sure to wear durable, reflective rain gear for safety, as unexpected downpours can complicate any adventure.
Choosing the right apparel also played a critical role in my comfort. Soft fabric bib shorts treated my body well over a long day in the saddle, while my Specialized shoes performed admirably under pressure.
Conclusion: Ride Beyond Limits
In the end, the lesson learned was clear: don’t let your equipment define your adventure. The Colnago Y1Rs is a race bike, but it’s also a symbol of breaking the mold. Embrace your favorite steed, whether it’s a hardtail mountain bike or an all-terrain gravel machine, and remember that your adventures don’t need to fit within a predetermined box.
So gear up, think outside the cycling norms, and who knows where your bike will take you next?
Original article: https://velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-gear/600km-gravel-adventure-16000-dollar-aero-bike-colnago-y1rs/
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