You might be a pro on the road, but when it things get rough and bumpy, it’s a whole new ballgame. Lucky for you, we’re the kind of crew that embraces new mates with open arms. Keep your focus, and you’ll walk away from here with some new top-notch knowledge.
First things off the rank, you’re gonna need a machine that’s ready to roll with the punches. A gravel, cyclocross, or mountain bike is the way to go, packing some thick tires to tackle any ground like a champ.
Now, gravel and cyclocross bikes might seem like twins separated at birth. Both sport those drop handlebars, knobby tires, rock-solid frames (in most cases), and wider tire clearances than their road-ready cousins.
So, what’s the real McCoy, and what goodies should you chuck in your kit?
Gravel bikes are like the thoroughbreds of lightweight racing-style cycles, tailor-made for cruising through gentle off-road spots such as dirt roads, fire lanes, country tracks, and silky singletrack.
The goal? Offering a nimble, swift way to pedal through the great outdoors without the heft of your typical mountain bike.
Cyclocross bikes are close kin to roadies but with beefier frames and wider tire clearance.
Here’s the kicker – unlike gravel bikes, these bad boys rock a more aggressive racing setup, making them less cushy for those marathon rides.
Hardtail mountain bikes, they’re the real deal – packing front suspension but keeping it all business in the rear with no extra bounce.
They usually tip the scales on the lighter side, won’t break the bank, are a breeze to keep in shape, and stick around for the long haul.
MAXXIS IS HOW YOU ROLL
Your tyres are the only thing between you and the terrain. That’s why the Noosa Enduro is rolling with Maxxis a name trusted by elite racers, weekend warriors, and adventure riders worldwide.
When performance matters, Maxxis delivers the grip, speed, and durability to go the distance.
WHAT WIDTH TO RUN
• Sub-33mm Not built for this event. You’ll feel every rock, rut and root.
• Low 40s (40–42mm) Fast and responsive for experienced riders with smooth handling. Minimal cushion.
• High 40s (45–48mm) Our top pick. Confident traction, smoother ride, and fewer flats—perfect for Noosa’s gravel mix.
• 50mm+ Max comfort and grip, but extra volume means a slower roll. Good for all-day grinders or wet conditions.
MAXXIS PICKS FOR NOOSA ENDURO
Fast, lightweight, and race-ready. Perfect for dry, hardpack gravel. Minimal rolling resistance, no compromise on speed.
The go-to all-rounder. Balanced grip and speed with proven reliability—great if the terrain’s unpredictable.
Slick centre tread for fast-rolling road sections, with side knobs for control when things get loose. Ideal for mixed-surface riders.
TYRE PRESSURE MATTERS
Lower pressure means more grip and comfort. Just don’t go too low or you’ll risk pinch flats. Tubeless? Even better—run lower pressures and say goodbye to tubes.
BE FLAT-PROOF
Even the best tyres can’t dodge everything. Be prepared with a Spare tube (or two), Tyre levers, Mini pump or CO₂, Plug kit or patch kit, know how to use it you never know where you could be!
Not recommended
Experienced
Goldilocks Size
Too Gooey
Discovering a defferent Noosa will take you all around the hinterland across a variety of trails and surfaces. Here’s what you can expect on your ride.
Purpose Built Trail
Single File
Purpose Built Trail
Wider Than Singletrack
Emergency Access Road
One Car Width
Mix hard pack or loose gravel
One or two car width
