Ride 2 of the Oregon Gravel Grinder Series.The High Desert Gravel Grinder is one of the most scenic and diverse courses you will ever ride. Located in Bend, Oregon the location is a mix of high desert, climate that flows west into the high alpine settings of the Cascade Mountain Range. Surrounding Bend are hundreds of miles of gravel rural roads with little to no motor traffic on them. The course offers great views of the surrounding Cascade Mountain peaks as well as an assortment of rivers, and farms. Expect average temps to be in the mid 50’s by race start and up into the mid 60’s by the peak of the day. Gravel sections are well packed, smooth and fast. Spring rains provide good moisture keeping the dust down. No portion of the courses exceeds double digit grades for climbing or descending. Just a lot of fast rolling hills. Those brave enough to tackle the Big Grinder will go from the arid deserts of Central Oregon and head deep into the Cascade Range were breath taking views of North Sister and Mt. Washington await. Expect to see a lot of snow up on the top.

Well stocked aid stations will be located approximately every 20 miles along the course.  We will have water, Gatorade, GU, pretzels, gummy bears, bananas, PB&J Sandwiches, and granola bars at each aid station.

  • Award Medals go to the top three for each of these categories in each of the
    distances.
  • Prizes will be given for both the Big Grind rides
  • Categories: men, women, masters men, masters women, and juniors. *
    Masters category is defined as anyone 40 years of age or older on race day.

The after party will be located at Bendistillary with catered lunch provided by Cody’s Cook Shack and includes pulled pork, teriyaki chicken, chipotle apple cole slaw, bbq baked beans, potato mac salad, and cookies. Music and prize drawing will keep the party hopping.

Add $10 after April 1 and another $5 day-of.

At a Glance
  • 29 Apr 2018 9:00am
  • Tickets On Sale
  • High Desert Gravel GrinderHigh Desert Gravel GrinderBend, Oregon, USA
  • Up to 89 miles (144 km)
  • From 65.00 USD
19330 Pinehurst Rd,,Bend,Oregon,97701,USA

Extra Information

The High Desert Gravel Grinder is a mix of pavement and packed gravel.  Gravel roads are OK to excellent in condition. 

Suggest tires are 700x25 if you are a light rider, 700x28 if you are a medium to slightly heavier rider or cyclocross tires if you are a beast!  Thorn resistant tubes are a great idea.  Plan to use strong tubes, now is not the time to go ultralight.

Clement Tires and Sagebrush Cycles will be on hand to assist you with new tires and tubes prior to the race should you need to purchase some last minute tread.  Please either see them at packet pickup on Saturday night or arrive early on Sunday.

Gravel sections are in great shape and can be ridden with confidence.  The huge amounts of rain and moisture this spring means they will be firm and fast without the dust factor.

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