Velo Podcast The Truth About One-Sided Gravel Pedals: Brilliant Upgrade vs Industry Scam
Mar 20, 2026
Logan Jones Wilkins, Velo’s new tech editor and Phoenix-based gravel racer, breaks down gear and race drama. He recounts a scary lead-vehicle near-miss at Mid-South. They debate single-sided gravel pedals, compare Look vs Wolf Tooth, and dissect tire, gearing, and frame-storage trends in modern gravel setups.
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Splitting Pro Day Improves Logistics And Atmosphere
- Mid-South split pro and amateur days to ease police logistics and create a better pro spectacle with separate video coverage and a sunset finish.
- The change reduced finish-line bottlenecks and allowed distinct policing windows for lead fields.
Pros Use Very Large Chainrings For High-Speed Gravel
- Pro gravel racers favor very large chainrings (48–50T) to hold high speeds on long fast sections and maintain averages near 30+ mph.
- Logan noted many pros risk fitting 50T even if manufacturers list lower clearance.
Logan's Gas Station Fuel Hot Dog And Maple Syrup
- Logan's gas-station go-to on long rides is a hot dog with mustard, ketchup, and relish plus water; he says mustard's vinegar helps with cramps.
- He also carries gels, maple syrup flask, and chewy candy like Trader Joe's Scandinavian Swimmers.