Optimizing Performance: Matt Page's Gear and Nutrition Strategy for the UCI Gravel World Championships
Matt Page, a seasoned cyclist, undertook a detailed analysis and strategic selection of his bike, accessories, and dietary regimen for the demanding 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships held in Western Australia. Following his participation, where he secured an impressive 18th position within his age group, he now reflects on the choices made, the adjustments implemented, and the rationale behind these crucial decisions, offering valuable insights into high-performance gravel racing.
Detailed Report on Matt Page's UCI Gravel World Championships Strategy
For the prestigious 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships, held in the rugged terrain of Western Australia on Friday, October 16, 2026, Matt Page meticulously prepared, fine-tuning every aspect of his race. His primary weapon was a Canyon Grail CFR Di2, a bike chosen for its race-oriented design and aerodynamic advantages, despite being a last-minute selection. Page’s initial tests, including the British Cycling Gravel Championships, confirmed its potential, leading him to make targeted modifications before heading to Australia.
Among the key adjustments, Page swapped the standard 45mm Schwalbe G-One RS tires for 50mm Hutchinson Touareg Race tires. This decision, influenced by the varied and sometimes corrugated gravel sections of the Nannup course, prioritized puncture resistance and improved ride quality over marginal speed gains. He maintained slightly higher tire pressures than usual—25psi rear and 23psi front—to mitigate rim-to-tire impacts, a strategic choice that proved effective given the pre-race rain that softened the pea gravel.
Personal comfort and performance guided other equipment changes. Page replaced the stock Fizik Vento Argo X1 saddle with his preferred Selle Repente Artax GLM, citing its lighter weight (164g) and more flexible carbon shell. He also opted for a Praxis Zayante 155mm crankset paired with an XCadey spider-based power meter and a Praxis Aero 42-tooth chainring, a departure from the standard Shimano GRX, to achieve a shorter crank length and optimize gearing for the course’s elevation profile. Although the power meter malfunctioned, his heart rate data—averaging 157bpm over a 5-hour, 3-minute, 33-second race—confirmed the sustained effort.
For the cassette, an e*thirteen Helix Race 9-45-tooth was chosen for its optimal gear spacing and range, proving almost ideal for the Nannup climbs. Wheel-wise, the DT Swiss GRC 1100 was upgraded to the lighter Cadex MAX GXR Wheelsystem (1,335g), enhancing responsiveness. Page also prioritized puncture repair capability, fitting two Schwalbe Aerothan TPU inner tubes, a CO₂ inflator, a spare CO₂ cartridge, TPU patches, and a tire boot into the bike’s internal storage.
Clothing played a crucial role too. Page wore a custom NoPinz Sonic Gravel race suit in Great Britain colors, valuing its aerodynamic fit and extensive storage, which he used diligently to prevent littering—a pet peeve of his. His Abus Gamechanger helmet and ASSOS Bolide aero socks, secured with Tensospray, further optimized aerodynamics. Shimano RX710 shoes, chosen for their lightweight design and Dynalast 2.0 fit, completed his ensemble, all contributing to a seamless and efficient race experience.
Nutrition was meticulously planned using Torq energy gels and jellies, aiming for 90g of carbohydrates per hour, supplemented by two bottles containing 1.5 liters of fluid and 120g of carbohydrates. Despite cool conditions, Page consumed 2.2 liters of fluid, maintaining an average intake of 114g of carbohydrates per hour. His strategic fuelling ensured sustained energy throughout the arduous race, underscoring the critical link between preparation and performance in such high-stakes events.
The meticulous preparation and thoughtful equipment choices made by Matt Page for the UCI Gravel World Championships offer a compelling case study in optimizing athletic performance. His systematic approach, from selecting the right bike and components to tailoring nutrition and attire, highlights that success at elite levels hinges not just on physical prowess but on a holistic strategy. It underscores the idea that understanding the course and one's own preferences allows for personalized modifications that can significantly impact outcomes. Moreover, Page's experience reinforces the importance of adaptability and contingency planning, as evidenced by his heart rate monitoring backup when his power meter failed. This detailed account serves as an inspiration for athletes aiming for peak performance, emphasizing that every element, no matter how small, contributes to the grander achievement.