Feel good: Take a deep breath, ride at your own pace, and savour every moment. The Véloroute Gourmande invites you to slow down, soak in the scenery, enjoy meaningful encounters, and listen to your own rhythm. Meet passionate artisans: With over 130 gourmet stops, the route is a true journey of discovery.

Feel proud of your accomplishment: Covering 235 kilometres is a challenge worth taking. Enjoy a change of scenery: From the Old Port of Montréal to the rolling landscapes of the Eastern Townships, every kilometre tells a different story.

Dive into history and culture: As you ride, you travel through time and discover the cultural roots that shape the region today. Travel solo… without ever feeling alone: You’re never truly alone on the Véloroute Gourmande as along the way, you’ll meet fellow cyclists, local producers, and dedicated volunteers.

Awaken your senses: From breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River to the scents of the countryside and the flavours of local cuisine. Take a well-deserved break: Step away from the everyday, slow down, and reconnect.

Challenge yourself, at your own pace: Whether on an e-bike or a traditional bike, everyone can find their own challenge. Because everything is taken care of: The Véloroute Gourmande makes it easy from start to finish with luggage transport, return shuttles, bike rentals, and all-inclusive packages.

Read more about Véloroute Gourmande here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes 2026 featuring Véloroute Gourmande and many more spots here.

Baumier wheels offer two remarkable qualities – a lifetime warranty and they’re made in Canada – and we were excited to test their RT40 Lifetime wheelset this spring. Other wheels in the lineup include the RT40 Hors-Catégorie (HC), the GT24 Ultralight, and the GT24 Lifetime.

Founded by Benjamin du Haÿs, who previously co-founded Mobeewave that developed secure contactless payment technology and was acquired by Apple, Baumier also recently launched its very first complete bicycle, the B01 that also features their wheels – read our Baumier B01 Toronto launch report here.

According to the Baumier website, “From manufacturing to assembly, Baumier takes the time to ensure that every rim meets the highest standard of quality and reliability. We’re all about high-performance wheels designed to last.” Of note, the company also reflects a philosophy, “where performance and responsibility go hand in hand,” underscoring Baumier’s commitment to more ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices.

When looking for a set of carbon fibre wheels, there’s a lot to consider such as size and weight which are two key factors in the evaluation process. The Baumier RT 40 wheels measure up at 40mm in height with a 19mm inner width, and they weigh in at 1,387gms for the wheelset. 

Where these wheels truly differentiate themselves from the rest of the peloton, is in their durability. The RT 40 utilizes 24 titanium spokes and a titanium freehub body, which are intended to maximize longevity, and as noted, Baumier confidently backs their wheelsets with a lifetime guarantee. 

While many brands market carbon wheels primarily around speed, Baumier positions their RT40 as a wheelset designed to be ridden hard for many years, rather than be replaced after a few seasons. 

The wheels can be configured with a SRAM or Shimano compatible freehub body, and come with a center lock disc brake mount and thru axles. Being tubeless ready is another nice feature, but for our test report they were ridden with tubes for simplicity’s sake. 

The RT40s are the kind of wheels that you can put on your bike and ride all day long, and in all conditions. These wheels offer a natural feel and stiffness while cornering and climbing, but not a teeth-rattling, rigid feel when the road gets rough. 

They do a good job of taking any road vibrations out of the ride, and they make the ride feel more compliant and easier during longer excursions.

Another standout feature of the RT40 wheelset is its focus on ride comfort. Baumier claims the titanium spokes naturally absorb vibration, creating a smoother ride than many traditional carbon wheelsets.

For endurance riders, gran fondo participants, and cyclists who spend long hours on rough pavement, this could be a genuine advantage over ultra-stiff race wheels.

These wheels also shine when the road turns to gravel. Their dampening quality really help take the edge out of gravel roads which helps minimize bike vibrations, allowing for longer gravels rides and less fatigue at the end of the outing. 

The 40 mm profile is a great height and is the sweet spot between aerodynamics and crosswind stability. This depth is great for all-around road riding because it maintains its aerodynamic qualities without becoming overly difficult to handle in gusty conditions. 

The no frills finish also provides a durable look to the wheels that isn’t high polish, but rather presents a visually striking classic carbon weave that can handle the rigours of gravel races and still come out looking great. 

Baumier’s RT40 wheelset is less about chasing marginal gains and more about creating a premium wheelset that remains comfortable, dependable, and enjoyable over thousands of kilometers – all with an aero advantage. Made in Canada is just the icing on the cake!

The MSRP is $3,495 with specs below and for more information please visit here.

Size        700c
Construction      Carbon – hooked
Tire Compatibility             23mm – 40mm – tubeless or tubed
Brake Compatibility         Disc (Center Lock)
Inner Width        19mm
Outer Width       26mm
Rim Depth           40mm
Max Tire Pressure            120psi/8.4bar
Max Recommended System Weight         265lbs/120kg
Front Weight      648g
Rear Weight       749g
Wheelset Weight             1397g
Hub Type             Erase Centerlock SP
Engagement       36 points of engagement / 10 degrees
Freehub Body    SRAM XDR / Shimano HG / Shimano Micro spline
Spoke Type         Ti Duo Aero
Spoke Count       24
Bearing Material               Steel

Over the course of the weekend, riders will race up picturesque mountain roads, experience historical downtown Fernie and connect with a growing community of Canadian gravel cyclists. Following their mission, Anything Goes With Gravel, the race itself is open to anyone and everyone and offers multiple distances, race categories and fun activities for the whole family all weekend long.

FGG Weekend Schedule

Friday, July 3rd | Station Square 
FESTIVAL & EXPO DAY 
12:00pm – Venue & Rider Package Pickup Opens
1:00pm – Shakeout Ride p/b Specialized
2:00pm – Women’s+ Ride p/b Tactic Nutrition
4:30pm – Athlete Panel Q&A
5:30pm – Rider Welcome Meeting
6:45pm – Beer Garden Last Call 
7:00pm – Industry Night Closes

Saturday, July 4th | Station Square
THE GRAVEL GRIND 
7:30am to 8:45am – Late rider sign in and package pickup 9:00am – Long Haul Start
TBA- Medium Haul Start
TBA – Short Haul Start 
12:30-3:30pm – Riders Finish at Station Square
TUNES IN THE TOWN – Everyone Welcome! Live Music, Beer Tent, Food Trucks and more! FREE!
4:00pm – Wattsup Challenge p/b Bowhead Corp. 
5:30pm – Award Presentations p/b 7mesh Apparel
6:30pm – Little Bit Good Band
8:30pm – Rubber Tire Peep Show 
11:00pm – Tunes in the Town Closes

Register here.

Nelson and the surrounding communities of Kootenay Lake are a mountain biking mecca, delivering authentic Canadian singletrack experiences for riders of all stripes.

Mountain Station is a local paradise that’s easily accessed from downtown, offering riders a plethora of trails ranging from beginner to double black diamond, along with awesome descents. Nelson Brewing Company’s certified organic process is a great spot to relax and refuel at the end of your day.

Only 4km east, enjoy the multiple trails at Morning Mountain Bike Park including beginner routes to more challenging terrain including many intermediate options to sample as well while taking in the distant views of the Kokanee and Valhalla Mountains.

Heading west, Svoboda Road in West Arm Provincial Park offers a popular 5km doubletrack, mountain-bike-only trail with 434m of climbing. A little further west lies Balfour and the Kootenay Lake ferry where you can explore the East Shore’s Crawford Bay Trails, another popular spot.

A must-visit is Ainsworth Hot Springs, halfway between Balfour and Kalso, to enjoy the hot springs and mineral waters that have been healing visitors for hundreds of years.

For road afficionados, cycling the East Shore of British Columbia’s Kootenay Lake south to Wynndel is like taking an 80-kilometre trip back in time.

The East Shore region can be accessed via Highway 3A from Creston or the Kootenay Lake ferry that offers stunning views of the surrounding Purcell and Selkirk mountain ranges — it’s one of the longest free scenic ferries in the world.

Continue south along the shoreline to Gray Creek and then on to Boswell where it’s worth checking out the Glass House, built from a half-million empty embalming fluid bottles. About 10km from Wynndel, riders wanting to celebrate their journey should stop in the community of Sirdar on Duck Lake. Visit the Wynnwood Cellars, established in 2007, the only winery in the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region.

For gravel cycling adventures, it’s hard to beat the 52km Slocan Valley Rail Trail along the picturesque Slocan River or take on the 140km Southern Slocan Range Loop, a Nelson gravel biking classic.

Read more about the Nelson Kootenay Lake region here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes with a feature on the Nelson Kootenay Lake region and many other great spots here.

“Since releasing our original statement on the unfortunate cancellation of the Canadian Gravel Championships, we were heartbroken to see disinformation and misguided rhetoric posted online that completely mischaracterized what happened and how the extremely difficult decision was reached. It is important to us that people take time to get the facts before reaching their respective conclusions,” wrote Jon Watkin, President and CEO of Panache Cycling Sports.   

While high temperatures were expected in the weather forecast that day, conditions were much worse than anticipated. “However, race day conditions rose far beyond what we and the majority of racers predicted. While regional and start/finish air temperatures reached 35°C, riders were experiencing recorded peak temperatures near 40°C on the steepest and exposed parts of the course where the radiant heat was almost unbearable.” 

“The event team reviewed conditions against UCI Extreme Weather Protocol criteria where on course measurements and medical reports confirmed air temperatures ≥ 35°C, heat‑related medical cases were rising, medical teams were overloaded, response times were delayed, and water supplies were depleting faster than expected. These conditions met the threshold requiring race cancellation.”

Former to pro, Michael Woods, had apparently already finished the men’s race as the “unofficial” winner when the announcement was made. Woods had broken away from defending champ Benjamin Perry and Andrew “Lespy” L’Esperance who also finished the 123km race.

The women’s race included top riders such as Hailey Smith, Lucy Hempstead and Kaitlyn Rauwerda, who were leading at the time that the event was cancelled.

Despite the disappointment felt by riders, teams and fans, the safety of all competitors took precedence. The entire situation and the status of the championship race results and titles is being reviewed by Cycling Canada and organizer Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.

“We are deeply disappointed that we could not properly recognize on race day the incredible effort and dedication so many athletes brought to this championship. No one is more devastated than we are. But your safety will always come before results, podiums, or expectations and that is a principle we will never compromise,” wrote Jon Watkin, President and CEO of Panache Cycling Sports.

“Panache Cycling Sports has always taken pride in an impeccable safety record, built over years of careful planning, professional standards, and respect for every rider who lines up at our events. That commitment guided us here as well,” wrote Jon Watkin, President and CEO of Panache Cycling Sports – read the full statement below.

Updated Statement on the 2026 Canadian Gravel Championships
Since releasing our original statement on the unfortunate cancellation of the Canadian Gravel Championships, we were heartbroken to see disinformation and misguided rhetoric posted online that completely mischaracterized what happened and how the extremely difficult decision was reached. It is important to us that people take time to get the facts before reaching their respective conclusions.

The event team spent the entire week preparing for a forecast of 28-30°C, following all UCI Extreme Weather Protocol requirements. Prior to race day, we made every effort to notify and warn participants through email communications as well as the riders/managers meeting on June 13. In that meeting (which was in person and available to watch online), we clearly communicated that high temps of up to 30°C were expected on race day and that participants plan accordingly. Safety protocols were also communicated which included how to handle any emergency situation, locations of radio relay points/medical/food stations/on the course, and explaining the emergency evacuation protocol for fire/heat/air quality. A 1:30pm mandatory cutoff mid way at aid station 2 / course lap junction was also highlighted and explained. Further Details of the bottle drop were provided that allowed Championship racers to arrange to have their own feed bag/bottles dropped off on race day early morning and taken to any of the aid stations for them to access. From that point, we were comfortable that the event could proceed as planned.

However, race day conditions rose far beyond what we and the majority of racers predicted. While regional and start/finish air temperatures reached 35°C, riders were experiencing recorded peak temperatures near 40°C on the steepest and exposed parts of the course where the radiant heat was almost unbearable. Water stations were depleting quickly from participants of all ability levels underestimating their respective consumption rates and were experiencing obvious heat related distress. Medical teams reached capacity while responding to multiple incidents and could no longer guarantee safe response times in the very remote areas of the course. Numerous calls for numerous racers requiring pick up and transportation mid-race reached a critical point, adding a new risk situation where introducing more vehicles on course would pose a further risk to racers, especially on the steep downhill gravel sections.

The event team reviewed conditions against UCI Extreme Weather Protocol criteria where on course measurements and medical reports confirmed air temperatures ≥ 35°C, heat related medical cases were rising, medical teams were overloaded, response times were delayed, and water supplies were depleting faster than expected.

These conditions met the threshold requiring race cancellation. The collective decision was made to cancel the event in the interest of rider safety. Radio operators activated the emergency evacuation protocol and instructed riders to return to the start/finish via the shortest route. A coordinated pickup caravan was deployed to retrieve riders who were unable to return on their own due to heat distress.
At the end of the day, the decision to cancel was the only responsible choice. When temperatures spiked far beyond all forecasts and the majority of riders of every ability level began experiencing heat related distress, our duty was clear……protect the athletes. We stand by that decision wholeheartedly.

Panache Cycling Sports has always taken pride in an impeccable safety record, built over years of careful planning, professional standards, and respect for every rider who lines up at our events. That commitment guided us here as well.

We are deeply disappointed that we could not properly recognize on race day the incredible effort and dedication so many athletes brought to this championship. No one is more devastated than we are. But your safety will always come before results, podiums, or expectations and that is a principle we will never compromise.

Jon Watkin
President and CEO
Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.

For more information please visit here.

Top racers such as former pro, Michael Woods, were competing in the 123km race with 2,000 meters of climbing, and apparently Woods had already finished the men’s race as the “unofficial” winner. He was followed by defending champ Benjamin Perry and Andrew “Lespy” L’Esperance. It’s unclear what the status of the women’s race was, which included top riders such as Hailey Smith and Lucy Hempstead, at the time that it was cancelled.

The event was run in tandem with the recreational Burnt Bridge Classic, and the status of the championship race results and titles will be reviewed by Cycling Canada and organizer Panache Cycling Sports Ltd. who issued the following statement.

Statement from Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.
On Sunday, June 14, the decision was made to cancel the 2026 Canadian Gravel Championships. This decision was not made lightly. During the event, an assessment was made, that the on-course conditions did not meet the safety standards required for participants to continue racing.

Going into the event, additional precautionary measures had been put in place and communicated at the riders/managers meeting based on weather conditions to be expected at that time.  These included offering a bottle drop at aid stations, adding more water and ice resources, and introducing a mandatory cut off time at 1:30pm for riders at aid station 2.

As the event progressed, we monitored the situation referencing the Cycling BC Air Quality and Extreme Weather Safety Guidelines. Over the course of the day, medical resources began to reach their capacity, creating a vulnerable situation for riders on course.  On course race temperatures of greater than 34+ degrees Celsius were measured, and it became clear that proceeding with the event would not meet the safety standards required for every participant.

We recognize this decision was met with disappointment, and we understand the time, training, and commitment you have invested in participating in the Canadian Gravel Championships event. Panache Cycling Sports is working diligently with Cycling Canada to determine the fairest possible outcome regarding results and titles. We expect to provide an update by the end of the week. 

Your safety is, and will always remain, our highest priority. Thank you for your understanding, your patience, and your continued support of gravel racing in Canada. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or Cycling Canada directly for clarification. 

Sincerely, 
Jon Watkin
Panache Cycling Sports Ltd.

For more information please visit here.

One of the standout routes is the St. Clair River Trail, a 35-kilometre paved trail tracing the river’s edge. It’s flat, scenic, and ideal for relaxed rides or recovery days, passing through the Carolinian forest zone, riverfront communities, and historic stops like Moore Museum.

The Bluewater Trails of Sarnia and Point Edward offer smooth connections through waterfront parks and urban pathways, while quieter concession roads lead inland to Petrolia, a beautifully preserved Victorian town, and Oil Museum of Canada, where cycling meets Canadian industrial history.

Food-minded cyclists can build routes around the region’s growing taste-of-place scene via the Cheers to the Coast Trail with craft breweries, wineries, cideries and meaderies scattered across the county.

The area’s cycling culture is anchored by events like the renowned Bluewater International Granfondo in early August. Participants can choose from the family-friendly 30K Grove Route, the flat and scenic Sarnia 50K, the quiet country roads of the Lambton 100K, or the challenging 150K Bluewater Route, which includes timed sections and climbs.

Registration includes a hot meal, a cold beverage, entertainment and an optional refreshing swim in Lake Huron.

Read more about Ontario’s Blue Coast in Lambton County here and the Bluewater Int’l Granfondo here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes with a feature on Ontario’s Blue Coast and many other great spots here.

Explore beautiful lakes, waterfalls and deserted sandy beaches while marine shuttles ferry you across crystal-clear rivers. There are secure charging stations for your e-bike, along with 65 roaming Bicycle Ambassadors to assist if needed.

Mountain bikers can enjoy more than 150 kilometres of trails at five Lac Saint-Jean locations offering exhilarating trails for endurance, cross-country and downhill riders.

After a day in the saddle enjoy one of the many microbreweries, tour cheese-making dairies and chocolate factories. Along with delicious local dining there are abundant campsites, charming hotels and unique bed & breakfast opportunities.

For a cycling adventure of a lifetime check out their bike guide for tips on planning your next trip.

Read more about Véloroute des Bleuets here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes with a feature on Véloroute des Bleuets and many other great spots here.

Important Update on Licensing
Participants taking part in the Burnt Bridge Classic / Canadian Gravel Championships should be mindful of licensing requirements. All riders competing in Canadian Championship categories (Elite, U19, U17) must have a valid UCI license. There will be no one-day or citizen licenses issued for Canadian Championship categories.

Masters riders racing in the Canadian Championship must at minimum have a Provincial Race License. Note we are expanding Masters Age Categories by 5 Year Increments: 35-39 / 40-44 / 45-49 / 50-54 / 55-59 / 60

For the Open Non Championship categories (Impulso, Intermedio, Esperto), a race license is not required but it is encouraged. For more information visit here.

Technical Guide v2
Read/Download the Burnt Bridge Classic Tech Guide
Important information about the race, rules, schedule, routes, and more.
Available in English / French
Download here.

Schedule of Events
Saturday June 13, 2026
10:00 AM to 5:30 PM Check in and race package pick-up

Sunday June 14, 2026
7:30 AM to 9:00 AM Check in and package pick-up
9:15 AM Greetings, Rider’s Briefing

9:30 AM Championship Elite Men
9:30 AM Championship U19 Men

9:35 AM Championship Elite Women
9:35 AM Championship U19 Women

9:40 AM Championship Master Men A/B
9:40 AM Championship Master Men C/D

9:45 AM Championship U17 Men/U17 Women
9:45 AM Championship Master Women A/B/C/D

9:50 AM Open Esperto Fondo (Non Championship)
9:50 AM Open Intermedio Fondo (Non Championship)
9:52 AM Open Impulso Fondo (Non Championship)

​11:00 AM to 3:00 PM Food Truck & Drinks
3:00 PM Awards Presentations

Registration, accommodations, directions to venue here.

Home to some of the best mountain bike trails in the province, it features stunning landscapes, lush forests, and pristine rivers for year-round exploration and adventures.

Their Bike Park trail system just north of town features almost 60 unique routes with something for everyone.

The newly expanded area at Swift Mountain, just west of the Bike Park, features lots of great mountain biking options including a brand new 20km cross-country intermediate/novice loop.

Roadies can venture out to nearby iconic Mount Robson for spectacular views of the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

A wide array of comfortable accommodations are at your fingertips to suit any budget from guest houses, to B&Bs, cabins and lodges including resorts and traditional hotels/motels.

Valemount also offers a fabulous range of restaurants, eateries, cafés, bistros, and bakeries including a craft brewery where you can take time to relax and refuel after a day on the trails.

Plus, there are numerous events to check out such as the Valemount Gravity Camp – Women’s & Co-ed this June 6-7, along with Valemountain Days and more – check our their new App for all-season opportunities.

Read more about Valemount, B.C. here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes with a feature on Valemount, B.C. and many other great spots here.