Thread by @Pflax1

Was thinking this morning about Unbound Gravel and why, exactly, that race and events like it have captured people's imagination—and perhaps what traditional sanctioned racing doesn't provide.

People want more than a workout and a competitive environment to test themselves—they want adventure and experiences and self-expression. Whether it translates to good TV is really besides the point because it revolves around immersive participation.

Adult life can be tired and disconnecting, and I think most folks don't fantasize about getting yelled at (or dropped early on) at a crit, where you literally can't participate if you're in a sleeveless jersey. People are willing—excited even—to suffer, provided it's fun too.

I'd bet that non-competitive bike festivals in beautiful rural areas would do quite well. Where there are ambitiously big rides to tackle and expos and community and beers but no clock or timing. Just celebrations of long rides and the joy of sharing them with other cool people.

Also, as someone who lives in a huge busy city, I'm totally up to fight for safer streets, but as an escape it's hard to overstate the fantasy of empty dirt roads in a place like Kansas. I know there's all sorts of MB riding/racing that can scratch that itch, too.

I'm also in favor of weird sock choices, backpacks, logo-free kit, pros drinking beer, and bike races where the people who finish long after the top riders still feel like winners.

Have a great Sunday!