No Lance – It’s All About the Bike
Nothing technical here, folks. The Gibb River Road isn’t a technical course by any mountain-bike definition — but it’s long, corrugated, remote, and as challenging as it is rewarding, with the kind of vistas that make the suffering worth it.
Bike choice
- Full-suspension bikes hold traction better on corrugations and reduce rider fatigue.
- Hardtails work fine too, but expect more standing/bouncing on rough sections.
- Fat bikes are increasingly popular for the terrain.
Tyres
High-pressure, tough touring tyres (e.g. Continental Travel Contact) roll well and resist punctures on the Gibb — off-road cornering grip isn’t the priority here.
Setup tip
Aero bars aren’t just for roadies — long flat/gravel stretches make them a genuine efficiency gain.
Bike kit checklist
- Tubes (correct valve type for your wheels)
- Tubeless sealant + compatible tyres/rims, if going tubeless
- Spare tyres (at least a couple per team)
- Floor pump with gauge
- CO2 canisters
- Chain cleaner + citrus degreaser + chain lube (not WD-40/CRC)
- Brake cleaner (for discs only — don’t use degreaser)
- Chain quick links
- Shock pump
- Bike lock
- Multi-tool (with chain breaker if you know how to use it)
- Garden sprayer, for cleaning the bike each night
Rider kit checklist
- Quality cycling knicks (a couple of pairs)
- Anti-friction cream
- Cycling jersey (event jersey included with registration; team jerseys are a nice touch)
- Clip-in shoes if you’re comfortable with them
- Socks (a couple of pairs per day)
- Helmet (Australian Standards, good condition)
- Sunglasses with interchangeable lenses
- Headband/buff for sweat
- Gloves
- Hydration pack (water only — use a separate bottle for sports drinks to avoid bacterial growth) plus electrolyte drink bottle