Gravel Grinder News: PCL Adds “Eroica” Category To Gravel Worlds- by Guitar Ted
Have you ever heard of L’Eroica? It is an event- and now has inspired a category of events- that originated in Italy by a rider by the name of Giancarlo Brocci, who in 1997 decided he wanted to do a ride, and provide an event, that hearkened back to the romantic visions of bespectacled riders struggling up the graveled passes of the Alps and Pyrenees. The idea caught the imagination of European riders and was imported to the U.S. several years ago. Rules apply that all riders must adhere to to be considered as being “era correct”, right down to the kit worn by each participant.
Well, according to one of the Gravel Worlds promoters, Corey Godfrey, there were some suggestions made that Gravel Worlds should include such a category in their event. Gravel Worlds has already embraced fat bikes, single speeds, and they even have a category for cargo bikes. Now an “L’Eroica” category will be added for this coming August’s edition of Gravel Worlds. The rules that will apply include the following:
- Steel frame produced prior to 1988.
- Down tube or bar-con shifters.
- Non-aero brake levers, with exposed brake housing.
- Traditional pedals with toe clips and straps.
- Minimum 32-spoke wheels with box-section, non-aero rims.
- Leather saddles and wool jerseys preferred.
But what if you have already registered for Gravel Worlds and you’d like to enter the L’Eroica category? Have no fear! Godfrey said competitors already registered for another category at Gravel Worlds 2019 can switch to the L’Eroica category without additional fees, and registration remains open for all categories of the August 17 event. Learn more at Gravel-Worlds.com, or register at BikeReg.com.
Note: Information and images for this post were provided by Gravel Worlds/PCL