Ride Reports: Nibelungengravelride 2021
Posted By Gravel Union
On 12 July 2021
Timo Rokitta reports from the recent running of the annual Nibelungengravelride event
In time for the beginning of July 2021, the CV19 restrictions in the federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate were further relaxed, which meant the Nibelungen gravel ride could take place for the fourth time. We tried to make sure that all the gravel riders taking part got their money's worth, so this time there were three different routes to choose from.
At the start of the event, the track was identical on all routes - it went over the hilly and bumpy “Rheinterrassenweg” high above the river Rhine through extensive vineyards. The shortest 60 kms event was perfectly suited to get a taste of gravel and pavé and was ideal for gravel beginners. The 80 kilometer circuit was a bit more demanding, but still easy enough to ride. On the 130kms route, things got harder. The cobblestone passages in particular sapped the gravel riders’ strength. The former professional CX racer and multiple German CX champion Jens Schwedler from Hamburg even came and took part in the event – proving that it is already legendary in the dropbar off-road scene.
The riders taking part in the long-distance route were rewarded with fantastic views of the Frankfurt skyline and the river Rhine plain. The organiser also built in an absolute insider tip - the participants of the 80kms and 130kms routes passed the quaint little “Cafe Ernie & Illi” on the historic market square in Nierstein and were able to try the delicious cake buffet.
The last part of the track was identical for all the routes - it was relaxed riding on gravel trails along the river Rhine. But relaxed was again relative - the participants had to occasionally carry their gravel bikes over fallen trees or cross knee-deep puddles. In addition to the legendary flambé salmon, there were also cool drinks at the finish. The physio department of the hospital offered a relaxing massage for the participants to relax them before they headed home.
A prize drawing for the participants rounded off the event. As a result, after a super-fun day for the participants, an amount of €4045 was collected as expenses for the children's clinic at the Worms Hospital.
Next year will be the 5th anniversary of the event and the organiser has promised it will be a very special event – watch this space for more details!