When preparing for REBOUND, selecting the right bike is crucial. Opt for a gravel-specific bike designed for rough terrain, featuring wider tires, comfortable geometry, and disc brakes. Shimano components are highly recommended due to their reliable performance. As Shimano Gravel Alliance member Dalila Lecky says, “I'm working on a route that will be as much gravel and as little mud as possible - it's proving to be quite the challenge due to the geology of the area, but I know it's going to turn out great in the end. There's also the potential to include some rather steep hills, so it's got to be a 2x12 GRX Di2 set-up for me.”

Choosing the right cycling gear can significantly enhance your experience at REBOUND.

Clothing: Wear a moisture-wicking base layer for optimal comfort. Quality cycling shorts or bibs with proper padding are essential for long rides. A breathable, lightweight jersey with pockets for essentials, paired with a windproof and waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather, will keep you prepared.

Footwear: Invest in cycling shoes that fit well and provide support, ideally compatible with SPD pedals to enhance your pedaling efficiency. Prominent gravel cyclist and Shimano ambassador Erwin Sikkens remarks, “I always trust my Shimano shoes to give me the grip and comfort I need, especially when tackling tough gravel sections.”

When it comes to gravel cycling, having the right footwear can significantly impact your performance and comfort on the ride. Shimano's XC and RX shoes lineups are specially designed to meet the unique demands of gravel riders, combining functionality, comfort, and style to enhance your cycling experience during events like REBOUND.

Safety Gear: Never compromise on safety—wear a certified cycling helmet and padded cycling gloves to reduce fatigue and enhance grip.

Proper nutrition and hydration play vital roles in your performance during REBOUND. In the days leading up to the event, focus on consuming complex carbohydrates to optimize your glycogen stores. During the ride, carry a mix of energy gels, bars, and electrolyte drinks, aiming for 30-60 grams of carbohydrates per hour. This will keep you feeling strong and energized throughout the ride.

Post-ride recovery is equally important. Nailing your nutrition during a ride is crucial. It keeps your energy up so you can focus on the journey, not the fatigue. After the event, make sure to replenish with a balanced meal or recovery drink rich in protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes.

Before heading to REBOUND, ensure your bike is in top shape. Inspect your tires for wear and proper inflation—consider using tubeless tires to minimize puncture risks. Ensure your brakes are functioning correctly, as they are crucial for gravel riding. Additionally, inspect your chain and cables for any signs of wear, and clean and lubricate them to ensure smooth shifting.

We asked Shimano ambassador Claudia Gerosa’s for her thoughts: "I use E-TUBE to carefully control and set up my GRX Di2: precise shifting and a custom setup, optimized for climbing dirt roads. The bike I'll be using will be a 3T Ultra, a bike that combines aerodynamics with room for generous tires, ready for any type of terrain. Before and after each ride I thoroughly clean the bike, check the pads and give the chain a good oiling. This time I didn't plan the route because I'll be participating in an event in Tuscany: it will be the perfect opportunity to ride and have fun with many other people at REBOUND."

Incorporate mental preparation into your strategy for REBOUND. Visualization techniques can help reduce anxiety and improve focus as you picture yourself successfully completing the ride. Engage in mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, to stay calm and centered in the days leading up to the event. This will help you feel confident and ready for the challenge.

And when it comes to routes, Sofiane Sehili, long-time Shimano Gravel Alliance member, shares the following thoughts: 

“Route planning is a key part of a successful Rebound ride so I spend quite some time on Komoot to come up with the best possible routes. Here in the Southwest of France, the possibilities are seemingly infinite. When I’m out on my gravel bike, the goal is to spend as little time as possible on tarmac. By using both the resources of online route planners and my own knowledge of the surroundings, I’m confident that I will come up with a Class A course to ride on May 31st.”

During the event, maintain a sustainable pace to conserve energy. Trust your preparation and resist the urge to push too hard early on. Staying hydrated is essential, so be sure to sip your hydration mix regularly, especially in warmer weather. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the experience! Gravel cyclist and Shimano Gravel Alliance Rider Ibai Fradejas perfectly captures this sentiment:

“My REBOUND 2025, will not be very ambitious in kilometers, but in participation. Wanting to surpass last year's 50 attendees, from Shimano HQ. As important will be my kit as carrying a good camera to document the experience.

The GRX configuration of my bike will be Di2 2x12v 48-31 11/34, being the same that I've been using in recent years, except in extreme outings where I ride a mechanical 1x12, for simplicity.

“For the event, stay with friends at home, making a short stop with a Specialty Coffee, until the last one arrives, and then we will go together to the starting/meeting point, the new Shimano headquarters in the Basque Country. The route, to make it affordable to “everyone”, will not be very long, I have recovered one of the tracks of Deiadar Gravel, in the surroundings of Bilbao. After the trip, I'm sure the guys from Shimano have prepared something to eat for us, maybe some delicious pizzas like last year, I'm already dreaming about them.”

For conquering the challenges of REBOUND, Shimano GRX is the ideal gravel riding choice. Its precision shifting and rugged durability let you tackle mixed terrain with confidence, while smooth braking ensures you maintain momentum. Experience the freedom to push your limits and elevate your performance. Choose Shimano GRX and gear up for your best ride yet—ready to take on REBOUND?