Harder, faster, longer seems to be the ethos behind a lot of gravel events. So finding one where the unique selling point is the lack of altitude makes a refreshing change! Timo Rokitta reports back from the recent GravFlat event. 200 km of perfect riding, through great scenery, held under bluebird conditions and barely any climbing. Sounds ideal! 

200 Kilometers of gravel adventure, three federal states, one goal – Unforgettable! “You won’t hit the magical 200-kilometer mark at a gravel event this easily again!” With these bold words, the organiser rallied the participants early in the morning. And he was right: what followed was a one-of-a-kind adventure on two wheels – flat, but by no means boring.

For those not yet ready to tackle the full distance, shorter routes of 100 and 150 kilometers were also available. Even though the elevation profile looked harmless – with little more than a few bridges and underpasses – the route offered plenty of variety: forests, fields, cities, rivers and even sand! All of this stretched across Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, and Baden-Württemberg.

An early start

The 200-kilometer riders kicked things off, followed closely by the 150-kilometer group and finally the 100-kilometer starters. After just a few kilometers, it became clear: this was no ordinary bike ride. No sooner had they crossed the Rhine than the gravel bikers disappeared into a shady, cool forest. The tracks were fast and flat – perfect for warming up – until the distant hills of the Odenwald appeared.

But true to the spirit of gravel riding, the route veered off just in time to avoid any major climbs. Instead, it continued through dense woods and open fields. Just before reaching Weinheim, riders were treated to a spectacular view of the town’s historic castles – a medieval backdrop that brought a touch of knightly romance to the ride.

Speed, culture and sand traps

With a strong tailwind, riders shot toward Ladenburg, where pavement and gravel alternated constantly. Those needing a short break could visit the impressive Benz Museum right on the route – a place where bicycle and automobile history fascinatingly intersect.

A narrow singletrack led riders to the first refreshment station. With energy stores replenished, the 150- and 200-kilometer riders tackled the long southern loop – and here came the first real surprise: near Oftersheim, the surface suddenly changed. Sand! Fine, deep sand. Riders with slick tires had to dismount and push – surprised and challenged by this unexpected segment.

But the effort paid off: after the sand, speed junkies got their fix. Fast forest trails led past the legendary Hockenheimring. A moment of silence at the Jim Clark memorial added a reflective pause before the route continued along the modern racetrack – pure adrenaline!

From romans to cathedrals and royal palaces

Another technical highlight was the singletrack along the Kriegbach. Those who found the right line were rewarded with pure riding pleasure. Soon after, the mighty Speyer Cathedral came into view – an architectural gem directly on the Rhine that even the most focused riders paused to admire.

The route continued through the Schwetzingen wetlands towards the magnificent Schwetzingen Palace. A mystical trail along a centuries-old Roman aqueduct transported riders to another era. History, nature and gravel blended into a truly unique experience.

Mannheim’s “highest mountain” – with a summit log book!

A short while later, another refreshment station offered a welcome boost – with roughly 70 kilometers still to go. And then came the “mountain” the organiser had jokingly promised to avoid: a whopping 114 meters above sea level! The highest point in Mannheim was celebrated with a summit cross, memorial stone and even a summit logbook. Naturally, many couldn’t resist signing their names – with wide smiles on their faces.

Finale with thrills and legends       

One last time, the Neckar river stood in the way – but now on gentle paths that invited cruising. In Viernheim, the pace picked up again through expansive forests. A wide, white gravel path evoked the famous “Strade Bianche” in Tuscany – gravel dreams came true here.

An old military road passed the former “Coleman Barracks.” Warning signs threatening the use of firearms gave riders chills – best to keep moving!

Then came the final crossing of the Rhine. The bike path dramatically spanned a highway bridge above the A6 – an experience no one would soon forget. Just meters away, cars roared by at over 100 km/h while gravel bikers savoured their final stretch.

The Rhine became a peaceful companion during the “Tour d’Honneur,” the ceremonial conclusion of the ride. As a final landmark, the Hagen Monument greeted riders – a silent witness to the legend of the Nibelungs, which claims that “Hagen von Tronje” sank the Nibelung treasure into the Rhine here.

Fast riders, scorching heat and the forces of nature

The speed was remarkable: some riders completed the route with an average pace of nearly 30 km/h – despite the scorching summer heat, with temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F). And as if that wasn’t enough, a heavy thunderstorm rolled in by evening. Thunder rumbled, lightning flashed across the sky – and in the midst of it all, the gravel riders pressed on. Fallen trees blocked the path, but were swiftly overcome – sometimes with bikes slung over shoulders, sometimes by climbing over. An extra dose of adrenaline on an already epic ride.

Finish line and goosebumps

At the finish, many riders looked exhausted – but elated. 200 kilometers of gravel, flat but demanding, packed with impressions, encounters and unforgettable moments – this event will be remembered for a long time to come.

And the reward? A very special finisher medal – proof of a journey through history, landscapes, and passion.