By: Bella Slosberg / Easton Overland
On Friday June 30th, 2025, I’ll take on Unbound XL gravel race in Emporia, Kansas where I’ll be the youngest woman in history to take on the 360-mile course. On top of it being the longest ride I’ve ever attempted, this adventure holds so much meaning.
Throughout my time as a cyclist, I've battled with tying my worth as a person to my performance on the bike. It’s something I think a lot of athletes quietly struggle with—the unspoken belief that performance defines value.
That pressure is exactly what led me to seek something deeper—a space within the sport where meaning isn’t dictated by numbers or comparison. Over time I’ve gravitated towards ultra-endurance cycling, where success isn't defined by podiums or power numbers, but by grit, curiosity, and the willingness to explore the edges of what’s possible.
Saying I’m nervous for this 360-mile adventure is a huge understatement, but having such a dialed setup helps to quiet those nerves. So, without further ado, the setup:
For my frame, I’ll be riding an ENVE MOG. With adventure-oriented geometry, frame storage, and ample tire clearance, it’s the perfect bike for performance, comfort, and exploration.
With great range and big gears perfect for the rolling hills of Kansas, I’ll be running Shimano GRX 2x 11 Di2 groupset. For wheels, I’m running the EC90 ALX gravel wheelset: lightweight, responsive, and aero, yet sturdy and able to tackle any trail. For the best mix of speed and grip, I’ll be running the Schwalbe G-One RS Pro tires.
Part of what makes the XL so unique is the fact that it’s unsupported and riders have the task of carrying all their food, gear, and necessities. Luckily I have plenty of room to carry everything I need thanks to my Apidura adventure bags. On top of snacks and clothes, these bags will also be packed full of tools and flat repair gear courtesy of Lezyne.
Unbound is known for tire slashing rocks, mud thick enough to rip off derailleurs, and remote roads that test even the sturdiest of setups. While hopefully none of this will happen, I’m prepared to take on any mechanical hurdles thrown my way with the Lezyne Rap II - 18 multi-tool, Pro Tubeless Kit - Loaded, Lever Kit and, Grip Drive HV.
Unlike any race I’ve ever done, Unbound XL goes through the night, making lights arguably one of the most important parts of the setup. Finding a bike light bright enough to navigate dark roads, lightweight enough to support racing efforts, and with enough battery runtime to last 10+ hours is no easy task. Luckily Lezyne has exactly what I needed to take on the challenge. On my bike, I’ll have the Lezyne Macro Drive 1400+ Front with Infinite Light Power Pack and Strip Drive 300+ Rear. I’ll also be using the lightweight and powerful Helmet Lite Drive 1200+, perfect for spotting what’s ahead when the course gets unpredictable. With long runtimes and serious brightness, I know these lights can handle the full journey.
I know my gear is solid. It’s built for this kind of effort—reliable, capable, and ready for whatever the course throws at it. Now it’s on me to meet that same standard physically and mentally. I don’t know exactly what these 360 miles will hold, but I can’t wait to dive into this exciting journey.
Follow along with Bella's adventures on Instagram!
