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The Gravel Bikepacking Challenge 500 & 250 KM

For those who are more adventurous than the average person!

The concept of GBC500 and 250

Presented by

The purpose of this challenge is for cyclists to discover the Eastern Townships through fabulous gravel roads Are you bold enough to line up at the start of the Gravel Bikepacking Challenge? Come and explore the hidden treasures of the Eastern Townships region, with its original gravel roads, breathtaking scenery, charming villages and exceptional local produce.

Whether your goal is to beat the record over the 500-kilometre distance, or to exceed your limits for 250 kilometers, the GBC promises to be a rewarding adventure where the spirit of mutual aid and the passion for cycling meet.

The gravel bike is a fabulous ways of discovery...

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How it works

A few weeks before departure, we will send you the route in digital format. The start is in time trial format. Along the way, you will have mandatory checkpoints in unexpected places of exceptional beauty. You will have the opportunity to discover several shops and local products to taste on site. The route on the most beautiful roads in the Eastern Townships is 75% on dirt roads and gravel tracks, with a few sections on paved country roads (15%). The difficulty level of your challenge will depend on the choices you have to make when registering:

Some will be looking to set a personal record, while others will take up to 4 days to complete this cycling challenge. But no matter which category joins you, know that the Gravel Bikepacking Challenge will make you live an extraordinary human and sporting adventure, and this, in one of the most beautiful regions of Quebec.

A video... what better way to get started!

NOVELTIES OF EDITION 2024

As in previous years, you must choose your distance (250 km or 500 km) and your category (solo or duo). You always have the choice of doing it on an electric-assist bike or a traditional bike. Here’s what’s new for 2024

You have 4 days, or around 60 hours, to complete the challenge, from Saturday June 29 to July 2.
Starting Saturday June 29 at 6am, you can ride until midnight maximum, then dark zone compulsory until Sunday 6am.
Sunday June 30: course opens at 6am until midnight. Dark zone compulsory until 6am the following day.
Official opening times for Monday July 1 and Tuesday July 2 are 6am to 10pm. Dark Zone from 10pm to 6am compulsory.
By choosing the assisted category, you can have an external support team at meeting points determined by the organization (4 for the 500km and 2 for the 250KM). Assistants must follow a road book to reach the Pit Stops.
If you choose the unassisted category,you ride autonomously from start to finish, withno external assistance planned.

The gravel bike is a fabulous ways of discovery...

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Distances over 4 days

Kilomètres

meters D +

Rules

Follow the route provided and validate the checkpoints
Complete the challenge individually or with a partner
Respect road safety regulations
Respect zero footprint rules
Use existing campsites and accommodation
Being autonomous: repair kit, clothes, food...
Plan your places to sleep

Compulsory material

gravel type bike
Helmet
Basic first aid kit
Mobile phone
Red flashing light (rear) and white flashing light (front)
Headlamp or bicycle lamp (long lasting)
Suitable clothing for bad weather and cold nights
Refueling supplies and hydration to ensure complete autonomy.
Repair kit: tubes, pumps, keys, chain link..
Camping equipment, if applicable
Spare batteries or cell phone charger

GBC 500 REGISTRATION

Registration opens: December 2023
Departure date: June 28,2024
Departure point: Downtown Magog
Place of arrival: Vélo-Café Magog
Bib ceremony: 5 à 7 at the Velo Cafe on friday June 28

Rates

$ 295

$ 560

$ 475

$ 895

tariff change

December 8 to January 1: 500 KM (Solo $475 Duo $895) 250 KM (Solo $295 Duo $560)

January 1 to March 1: 500 KM (Solo $495 Duo $950) 250 KM (Solo $345 Duo $655)

From March 1 to May 1: 500 KM (Solo 525$ Duo 995$) 250 KM (Solo 365$ Duo 695$)

May 1 to June 21: 500 KM (Solo $575 Duo $1100) 250 KM (Solo $425 Duo $810)

Refund policy*:
Until 31/12: 90% refundable
Up to 28/02: 50% refundable Up to 30/04: 30% refundable Up to 1/05: Non-refundable *Trireg fees are non-refundable.