One man, one bike, one goal: always at the limit! Welcome to a special interview with a true gravel cycling great: Paul Voss! Many know him as a former professional road cyclist, but he has long since embarked on the gravel adventure – with impressive success.
Paul Voss proves that he is not only one of the fastest on asphalt, but also on gravel roads. However, his path to off-road cycling was not an easy one – and that's exactly what we're talking about today.
How does he experience the special fascination of gravel racing? What distinguishes it from the WorldTour? And what challenges has he had to overcome along the way?
Look forward to a motivating conversation with an athlete who is constantly reinventing himself!
1. Mr. Voß, you are an “old hand” at off-road cycling with over 20 years of experience. How did you discover your love for gravel bikes and racing?
I grew up in Rostock, where I got a taste of various disciplines such as cross-country, MTB, track and road from the very beginning. I was particularly enthusiastic about cross-country riding, and the long training sessions on the cross-country bike were basically my early introduction to gravel riding. In 2020, I discovered the gravel trend from the USA for myself – it was simply the perfect combination of road cycling and cyclo-cross. Since then, I have been fully passionate about it and enjoy every ride!
2. What were your personal highlights? Which races have you particularly fond memories of?
There are so many unforgettable moments! The special atmosphere at the races, the adventurous routes and the inspiring people you meet along the way – that's what makes gravel racing so unique. Every event brings new challenges and experiences, and that's what makes it so exciting!
3. What fascinates you most about gravel sports compared to other cycling disciplines?
For me, it's the perfect blend of adventure, competition and nature. Gravel racing is often unpredictable – the weather, the route, the strategy – there are so many factors at play. At the same time, the community is incredibly welcoming and friendly, it's not just about winning, but also about sharing experiences. This freedom and versatility is what makes it so appealing and ensures that every ride is unique.
4. What tips do you have for amateur cyclists or beginners who want to start cycling?
The most important thing is to get out there and ride! Don't let training plans or numbers stress you out – enjoy your time on the bike and find out what you enjoy most. Your body will tell you what it needs. There are many apps and coaches to help you get started, but you'll make the best progress just by spending time on your bike. The more you ride, the more you'll feel your fitness improve – and that's a great motivator!
5. Good cycling clothing makes cycling more comfortable and can improve performance. What do you personally value?
Less is often more! High-quality basics are crucial. A good undershirt, a well cut jersey and a comfortable pair of trousers make a huge difference. Instead of chasing every new design trend, you should focus on quality. At Maloja, I can incorporate my experience directly into the design. The PaulM. Gravel Bib, for example, was specially developed for long races – with extra pockets for gels and bars, so that you are optimally supplied even on long tours.
6. What would you recommend to beginners and ambitious hobby cyclists when it comes to cycling clothing?
A good baselayer is a real gamechanger! It helps to regulate the climate optimally and ensures more comfort. And of course, the right cycling shorts with the right seat pad are crucial. Maloja offers five different pads – so everyone can find the perfect model. Sometimes it takes a little time to find the ideal combination, but it's worth it! Because with the right equipment, cycling is twice as much fun.
Thank you, Mr. Voss, for your exciting insights and your enthusiasm for the sport of gravel.
And with that, we come to the end of our inspiring conversation with Paul Voss – an athlete who has proven that success is not tied to one discipline. From road pro to gravel champion – his story shows that the courage to change and hard work always pay off.
And to you, dear readers: stay tuned – the gravel boom is far from over!
