Gearing Up for the Unknown: Simon and Jan Take on Unbound Gravel
The Unbound Gravel race isn’t just another day in the saddle—it’s a rite of passage. For Tudor Pro Cycling’s Simon Pellaud and Jan Stöckli, this will be their first time lining up at the start line of what’s become one of the most iconic and grueling events in gravel cycling. We caught up with both riders to hear how they’re preparing for this epic adventure through the Kansas prairie.
“I can’t wait” – Simon
“It wasn’t even planned” – Jan
While Simon has been mentally gearing up for Unbound for months, Jan's entry came as a last-minute twist. “At the beginning of the year, it wasn’t even planned for me,” Jan says. “So I’m super happy I can ride Unbound. It’s even better because Simon and I are really good friends. For us, it’s super cool to ride here together.”
For Simon, the anticipation has been building: “I’ve read a lot, watched many videos, listened to podcasts… now it’s my turn to go for it!”
The Game Plan: Be Smart, Stay Sharp
Simon is going all in. “All out, of course. I like to take risks—and in a race like this one, it’s important to do so.”
Jan, on the other hand, is taking a more measured approach: “The strategy will be... it’s a long race. Stay in the front, as I said, and see what happens. For sure, after 200 km, the real race begins.”
Both agree on one thing: the level of competition is intense. “The riders here are really strong,” Jan says. “You have to be at the front from the beginning—not overheating, not doing anything stupid.”
Mind Games and Mental Prep
Unbound is 320 kilometers of unknowns, and mental prep is half the battle. Simon’s been immersing himself in the world of gravel, watching everything he can to calm his nerves and sharpen his strategy. Jan is keeping things in perspective: “Some guys do a lot more than 320k... I’m not one of the crazy guys. I’m just a normal guy doing 320k in one day.”
Tech Talk: What Keeps Them Rolling
When it comes to gear, both riders are placing their trust in Muc-Off to get them across the line.
Simon:
“My tires are full of your sealant and will hopefully save my Unbound at some point. My mechanic will be waiting for me at the feed zones with C3 Ceramic Lube to shine my chain.”
Jan:
“I use the Muc-Off bike cleaner all the time at home—my bike is always shining. And for gravel, the AirMach Mini is super cool. When you have a flat, it’s way better than a little pump. A mini compressor makes life so much easier.”
Fuel Stops and Fondue
Gravel riding isn’t without its quirks. “The weirdest thing I ever ate mid-ride? Cheese fondue,” laughs Simon. “Hardcore re-start!”
Jan’s pick? A classic sandwich, which apparently confused everyone around him. “I pulled it out mid-race and everyone looked at me like, ‘What is this guy doing?’”
Coffee, Music, and Bike Names
Simon says coffee before the ride is “optional,” while Jan didn’t weigh in—but both were quick with their playlist picks.
Simon: “NUEVAYol” by Bad Bunny
Jan: “Play Hard” by David Guetta – Work hard, play hard
As for their bikes?
Simon’s is named Mamasita.
Jan’s? Pide Gonzalez.
Gravel vs. Road: Who Wins?
Simon answers without hesitation: “Gravel.”
Jan sees both sides: “On most gravel races, the level drops off fast. But here at Unbound, the level is super high. When gravel reaches this level, it definitely wins—because you can’t hide. You’re pushing hard the whole time. No wind shadows, no shortcuts.”
Ride or Die
This year’s Unbound is more than a debut for Simon and Jan—it’s a test of grit, gear, and friendship. Whether it’s all-out attacks or tactical pacing, mini compressors or mid-ride fondue, one thing’s certain: these two are here to give it everything.
