Heading to Rouge Roubaix: Racing, Gravel, and Retail Connections
Every spring, Rouge Roubaix marks one of the most anticipated gravel race weekends in the South. Based out of St. Francisville, Louisiana, the event blends fast pavement, punchy climbs, and classic Southern gravel into a course that demands equal parts fitness, strategy, and durability. If you know me well, you likely know that I grew up in Louisiana. I’ve not made the time to go back since moving away in 2012, but I think it’s time that changed.
This year, I’ll be heading down not just to race — but to connect.
What Makes Rouge Roubaix Special?
Rouge Roubaix isn’t just another gravel event. It’s often called the “Spring Classic of the South” for a reason. The course rolls through quiet backroads, mixing smooth tarmac with unpredictable gravel sectors. Riders have to manage traction, tire pressure, and pacing all in one effort. It’s the kind of race where equipment matters. Not in an over-complicated way — just in a real-world performance way. Gravel like this rewards smart setup choices and bikes that can handle vibration, chatter, and long hours in the saddle.
Bringing the Crux to Louisiana
I have gotten mixed information as to what will be the fastest bike on the day. I have a Specialized Tarmac SL8, however I find it to be a little harsh on rough pavement. Also, as a smaller rider, I find it hard to be in the draft and also keep a clean sight line. This sometimes means not seeing holes, trash, or small hazards in the road until it’s too late to react. For this year’s race, I’ll be lining up on my newly painted Specialized Crux — finished in a custom purple with gold leaf detailing.
It’s a build I’m especially proud of. The Crux platform is already one of the lightest and most responsive gravel frames out there, and adding a custom finish gives it that extra layer of personality. I wanted a paint finish that was striking, but also pays ohmage to the brand that I have built. The inspiration was the Japanese art of Kintsugi. If you are unfamiliar, the practice uses gold to repair things like broken pottery. Taking something that was broken and considered trash and repairing it with something that brings more value than the original form is exactly what we stand for. Purple and gold felt right for Louisiana — and Rouge Roubaix seems like the perfect place to debut it.
Check out our gallery or Instagram for media of what I am affectionately renaming “La Crux”
Visiting Retailers Along the Way
I have largely spent the past 4 or 5 years working on launching the NSCR brand and grinding a day job at the same time. Until lately, I have not had the time or fitness for one day racing. 2026 is the year we change that but this trip isn’t just about racing.
I’ll also be connecting with retailers in and around the Baton Rouge and St. Francisville, and Northshore area. As the owner of Natural State Carbon Repair, getting face-to-face time with shop owners and mechanics is something I value heavily. We work with retailers across the country. Every few months, I try to get out and plant myself into the cycling community of a given area and get a finger on the pulse of what makes the shops successful, what makes the riding community special, and generally just understand the roads and trails that make up the area.
Carbon repair is still misunderstood in a lot of markets. My goal isn’t to overcomplicate it — it’s to be a resource. Shops want fast turnaround times, clear communication, and reliable work they can trust for their customers. That’s what I focus on. We are not just some behind-the-curtain company. We are in your community, we are riding your roads, flatting on your trails, drinking coffee at your favorite cafe. I build this company to grow roots in communities across the country and I am excited that Louisiana is the first on the list for 2026.
At the end of the day, being present matters.
Gravel Racing and Carbon Durability
Events like Rouge Roubaix are a reminder of how tough modern carbon frames really are. Gravel racing puts bikes through real stress — washboard chatter, rock strikes, and unpredictable terrain.
When damage does happen, it doesn’t have to mean replacing an entire frame. Professional carbon repair can restore structural integrity while preserving the ride quality riders expect. But next weekend? The goal is simple:
Ride hard. Stay upright. Enjoy the chaos.
If You’re Racing Rouge Roubaix…
Come say hi.
If you’re a shop owner in the area and want to connect while I’m in town, I’d love to meet. Whether it’s over coffee, at packet pickup, or after the race, I’m always open to talking bikes.
Rouge Roubaix is about more than just results — it’s about community. And that’s something worth traveling for.
See you in Louisiana. Laissez les bons temps rouler