Virtual gravel. Alright then.

Zwift have announced the event they’re calling their first off-road series, although technically they’re all off-road if we’re going to be pedantic about it. You can’t stop the inevitable tide: virtual gravel is here, and all those people who constantly follow and unfollow you on Strava are going to fucking love it.

And it’s broadcast live. Why not, sure. Last week we watched a live stream of a girl in her bedroom angrily saying she wasn’t Sady Doyle, so whatever, this at least involves some kind of action.

Here’s what they’re saying about the event:

Dirt is the name of the game in the Cervélo Gravel Rush Series. A first-of-its-kind event series, we’re focusing on gravel and mixed-terrain routes to showcase Zwift’s selection of in-game, off-road bikes. Different bikes have different advantages, with distinct ways of handling rolling resistance and aerodynamics. 

The series will run for four weeks in total. During the first three, we’ll assign specific bikes to Zwifters. Ride it out. These distinct bikes might affect the dynamic of the event, bringing forth different tactics than a typical ride. See if you can feel the differences in how the bikes react in-game. In the fourth and final week, riders can choose their bike in a Battle-of-the-Bikes situation on the Road to Ruins. Head to the Drop Shop to equip a Cervélo Áspero, R5 or any other bike.

Knock out any event to unlock the special in-game Cervélo kit. Feel like taking the ride outdoors? Finish all four events, and you’ll be entered to win a real-life Cervélo Áspero complete bike!

The Cervélo Gravel Rush Series will be streamed on Zwift Live with commentary from Nathan Guerra. His energy is more than a match for what you’ll see out on the dirt.

It all kicks off March 26.