Gravel Biking: Adventures Off The Beaten Path

21 May 2024

Dominick Ménard knows a thing or two about gravel biking. On top of creating the web and TV series Bonvelo and serving as the ambassador for Pittstop Vélo-Café, he’s also a two-time member of the national mountain biking team. Plus he just biked 23,000 km from BC to Argentina. He’s now back at his base camp in Bromont, so we tossed a few questions his way.

What is it about gravel biking?

“I’ve always loved biking, but started feeling less safe on the road. With gravel biking, you can focus less on performance and more on the landscape. You can chat and spontaneously choose your routes.”

What is it about Bromont’s circuits?

Cycliste en vélo de gravelle à Bromont
Photo : Alexandra Racine

“It’s like you’re in a totally different place, even just a few minutes from town. All the farmers’ fields, vineyards, ancestral homes, and lakes – you can completely disconnect. There are so many beautiful loops around Bromont. I especially love all the gravel roads between Bromont and Sutton. They connect with mountain bike trails and the bike path network, so you can vary things up without a map. Just explore and discover hidden treasures. The Bromont National Cycling Centre makes a great starting point.”

Why did you become an ambassador for Pittstop?

“You can trust their team of professionals and rely on their advice and expertise on mechanics, be it electric or hydraulic. Plus you always see someone you know; it’s a great spot to network, have coffee, or work remotely.”

Mécanicien de vélo au Pittstop vélo café
Since opening in 2019, Pittstop Vélo-Café has become the go-to meetup spot for cyclists in Bromont. Owners Jean-Michel and Jean-Sébastien strive to create an inspiring environment for cyclists of all levels. They recently expanded the building and redesigned the terrace to improve the customer experience. There’s no better spot to meet up after riding! Photo : Alysson Gallant

Gravel bike routes around Bromont >