would my bike be ok on very VERY light off road track?

andy46

Hi guys, I am asking this as on my commute to work I can take a much nicer traffic friendly route.

It starts off as a tarmac cycle lane on the road, then turns off to go to the industrial estate. This is where the surface changes from tarmac to a (fairly smooth) dirt track with a covering of very small stones/chippings.

This lasts for only a quarter of a mile if that, then it's back onto the road.

Just wondering if my bike would be ok with this, i know it's not designed for this but to be honest the track in question is in better condition than some of the roads round here.

Thanks for any replies, I just want my mind putting at ease.

Andy.

danowat

Probably be ok, might want to make sure you have decent, puncture resistant tyres though.

The final 800metres of my commute is on our works driveway, aka the gaza strip, and my allez is ok down that.

Feetsocks

Sounds very similar to my commute. I use Schwalbe Marathon tyres which are more than adequate for the 'off road' part.

thel33ter

It'll be fine, as above though, stick some fatter touring style tires on if you want, but I've done the odd bridleway on my roadie with lightweight 23c tires, never had a puncture on that bike,

MaxwellBygraves

Get some good rubber and you'll be fine, no worries.

sungod

as above

only other thing is that if the chippings are loose you may get a bit thrown up against the frame, esp. the downtube, might cause some scratches

ColinJ

You should be okay.

I sometimes ride my road bike on parts of the Calder Valley Cycleway to avoid heavy traffic on the A646.

The cycleway has sections of compacted soil, some gravelly bits, 200 yards of potholed gravel-strewn road to some industrial units, and so on.

So far, I haven't damaged my bike or punctured on it.

Peddle Up!

As above, but watch out for loose surface material which could have you off. Also, the thinner tyres tend to track more in uneven stretches of track.

cougie

Your bike will be fine. I've seen slick tyred road bikes doing really well on proper off road courses.

andy46

thanks everyone, seems my bike is stronger than i think and i'm worrying over nothing

neeb

The bike will certainly be fine. As long as you feel comfortable and safe give it as much welly as you want. Just be aware of the skid potential when braking / cornering.