Last weekend we hosted a Demo Gravel Bike Day with Peak Ascent and Buxton Cycle Club, in the heart of the Peak District in Buxton. What was planned to be a classic Peak District gravel ride (designed by Kevin from Buxton Cycle Club) quickly turned into a full-blown adventure — complete with torrential rain, snow, deep mud, and properly challenging conditions.
And honestly? It made the day even better.
Testing the Reilly Titanium Gravel Bikes To the Limit.
Riders had the opportunity to test two different titanium gravel demo bikes - the Reflex and the Gradient. With 6 riders demoing bikes and 3 complete gravel newbies, it took a while to get everyone fitted correctly. Then we ventured out into the hills.
Even in soaking wet conditions, the Reilly bikes delivered comfort, stability, and confidence, proving exactly why titanium is such by far the best choice for gravel riding.
Peak District Gravel in Torrential Rain
The weather didn’t hold back. Heavy rain turned tracks into streams and climbs into slippery challenges — but spirits stayed high from start to finish. Riders tackled every muddy section with determination, encouragement, and plenty of laughs, embracing the elements and supporting each other throughout. Peak District folk are made of strong stuff!
The halfway café stop was a welcome respite. We stripped off to dry wet kit on radiators whilst munching on delicious cakes, supping hot drinks and chatting about the atrocious weather and the sense of adventure tough gravel riding can bring.
Huge Thanks to Peak Ascent and All the Riders
A massive thank you to Patrick at Peak Ascent for hosting the day and creating such a welcoming base for the demo.
If you’re curious about gravel riding or thinking about a titanium gravel bike, there’s no better way to experience it than getting out there in the real world. If you would like to demo a Reilly bike book it here
