{"id":14774,"date":"2023-07-09T11:13:38","date_gmt":"2023-07-09T15:13:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/?p=14774"},"modified":"2024-02-05T22:41:23","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T03:41:23","slug":"what-is-a-brevet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/culture-and-community\/what-is-a-brevet\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is a Brevet? Unveiling the Thrilling World of Long-Distance Cycling"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Ready for an exhilarating journey on two wheels? If you’re new to the world of long-distance riding, you may have come across the term “brevet” and wondered what it actually means. Well, fear not! In this post, we’re going to unravel the mystery of brevets in cycling<\/strong>. So, fasten your helmet and join us as we delve into the captivating world of brevets and discover why they hold a special place in the hearts of riders worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What is a brevet?<\/strong> A brevet, in the sport of randonneuring, is an organized long-distance bicycle ride where cyclists, known as randonneurs, follow a designated route and pass through checkpoints within specified time limits. It’s a test of endurance, self-sufficiency, and touring skills that’s sure to leave you craving more pedal-powered adventures!<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the sport of randonneuring, a brevet is an organized long-distance bicycle ride that puts participants through their paces. It’s an opportunity for cyclists, or as we like to call them, randonneurs, to embark on a challenging adventure following a designated but unmarked route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The term “brevet” originates from the French word for certificate, which refers to the card carried by randonneurs (participants in these events) that gets stamped or signed at checkpoints along the route. The brevet card serves as proof of passage<\/strong>, showing that the participant completed the entire course without taking shortcuts and finished within the allotted time limit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Brevets are not races, although riders may aim to improve their personal best times. It is a pass-or-fail event, where participants must finish within the allocated time frame to be considered successful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Participants use regular road bikes or recumbents, and drafting (riding in close proximity to reduce wind resistance) is allowed. <\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Randonneuring is the type of cycling associated with brevets. It is a form of ultra-cycling characterized by long distances and minimal or no support during the event. Participants use regular road bikes or recumbents, and drafting (riding in close proximity to reduce wind resistance) is allowed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Randonneurs travel lighter than self-contained touring cyclists without the heavy pannier bags needed for camping. The word “randonn\u00e9e” translates loosely to “ramble” or “long journey” in French.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike traditional races, brevets focus on endurance, self-sufficiency<\/strong>, and honing your bicycle touring skills. The goal is not to compete against others but to test your mettle and explore your personal limits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During a brevet, randonneurs must pass through check-point controls at designated locations along the route. These checkpoints ensure that participants follow the course and complete the ride within specified time limits. Now, don’t fret! These time limits are designed to be challenging yet reasonable, allowing you to complete the ride at a comfortable pace without the need for racing speeds or high-pressure strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The beauty of brevets is that you don’t need a specialized bike to participate. Most riders opt for racing bicycles or fast-touring bicycles. In fact, several manufacturers offer models specifically designed for randonneuring or audax, equipped with mounts for a baggage carrier and mudguards. But hey, don’t be surprised to spot recumbents or velomobiles on the route too. These unique bikes are well-suited for long distances and add a touch of variety to the brevet scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ready to explore the diverse world of brevets<\/strong>? Let’s dive into the different types of brevets that await adventurous cyclists like you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Brevets come in various lengths, but the classic distances are 200km, 300km, 400km, and 600km. Completing one of each during a given year is known as completing a “series.” These distances serve as stepping stones, testing your endurance and preparing you for the ultimate challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to the classic distances, there are brevets of greater lengths, going beyond the 600km mark. These longer brevets allow experienced riders to push their limits and embark on extraordinary journeys. However, it’s worth noting that no brevets are held under 200km.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You might come across the term “Populaires” when exploring brevet events. Populaires are recognized and organized for distances less than 200km. They offer a gateway for beginners or those seeking shorter yet exciting rides. It’s a fantastic opportunity to dip your toes into the world of randonneuring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ah, the legendary Paris-Brest-Paris (PBP). This iconic brevet event holds a special place in the hearts of randonneurs worldwide. It takes place approximately every four years and covers an out-and-back course of around 1200km between Paris and Brest. Dating back to 1891, it’s the oldest regularly run bicycling event. Today, it has transformed into a non-competitive endurance challenge, allowing cyclists to create lasting memories and conquer personal milestones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you venture into the world of brevets, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat is a brevet?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What sets brevet apart?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Checkpoints and time limits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cycling on any bike<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What are the types of brevets?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Classic distances<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Variety of events<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Populaires<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Paris-Brest-Paris<\/h3>\n\n\n\n