Gravel Magazine featuring The Nordic Trailblazer: Setting Sails for Ic Skip to main content

Gravel Magazine featuring The Nordic Trailblazer: Setting Sails for Iceland and The Rift

Gravel Magazine featuring The Nordic Trailblazer: Setting Sails for Iceland and The Rift
Unionsrittet

Summer has truly arrived in Norway, bringing with it the thrill of gravel racing. On July 6th, Jonas Orset had the incredible experience of both organizing and racing in Unionsrittet, a grueling 240k route that spans between Norway and Sweden.

The race saw 56 determined riders take on this epic challenge. Early in the race, Jonas managed to break away with LifeTime GP rider Torbjørn Røed. Together, they created a significant gap between themselves and the rest of the field. Despite his efforts, Jonas was outpaced by Torbjørn on the single-track trails, ultimately finishing as the second fastest rider.

Balancing the responsibilities of planning and participating was demanding but immensely rewarding for Jonas. The days leading up to the race were filled with preparation, and the hours after were a whirlwind of activity. Despite these challenges, he was delighted with both the turnout and his performance. This edition of Unionsrittet was a resounding success!

Throughout the event, Jonas was equipped with his CCN Sport kit, which provided him with the comfort and performance needed to excel in such a demanding race.

Iceland and The Rift

Currently, Jonas finds himself amidst the stunning landscapes of Iceland, gearing up for The Rift. Excitement mingles with a hint of trepidation as he prepares to ride on a volcano – an entirely new and thrilling experience. The rugged, chunky gravel of Iceland is notorious for causing punctures, adding an extra layer of challenge to the race.

Jonas is confident in his bike setup. He’ll be riding his Felt Breed Carbon, equipped with Challenge Getaway XP 45 tires – the same setup he used successfully at Unbound. His mechanic, Bjørn, has also fitted a Rock Shox Rudy fork with 30mm travel, providing a bit of extra suspension for those relentless washboards.

Once again, Jonas will be racing in his trusted CCN Sport kit, ensuring he stays cool, comfortable, and aerodynamic throughout the event. If all goes well, Jonas hopes to be competing for a top position. However, his primary objective remains to conquer the demanding 200k course and emerge unscathed.

Stay tuned for updates as Jonas embarks on this volcanic adventure in Iceland. Let's hope for a smooth ride and a successful race!

Photo Credit: GRVL Magazine

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