There’s no denying that the number of younger riders in gravel races is low, though when you take a broader look, the overall rider numbers are often huge. The majority of those 5000 or so riders on the start grid for a major race like Unbound are not there to race as such – they’re along for the personal challenge and experience, which somewhat goes against the old school bike racing grain, where things are all about performance, results, and - yes - elitism. Ignore the naysayers, gravel suspension WILL make you faster!