Ethel claims a World Championship podium on her LIOS Titanium Gravel Bike
Ethel Brokenshire celebrates third place at the 2025 UCI Gravel World Championships.
A world stage for gravel riding
The UCI Gravel World Championships 2025 took place this year in Maastricht, at the heart of the Limburg region in the Netherlands. The course wound through a mix of open farmland, cobbled climbs and twisting forest trails - a demanding route that tested skill, strength and nerve. Gravel riding has surged in popularity in recent years, combining the endurance of road cycling with the adventure and unpredictability of off-road terrain. For many, it captures the freedom of cycling in its purest form.
Among the world’s best riders were LIOS Ambassadors Ethel and Matt Brokenshire, representing the brand with pride and performance on the biggest stage in gravel racing.
Ethel’s Podium Moment
For Ethel Brokenshire, this was a career-defining ride. Competing on her LIOS Titanium Gravel Bike equipped with SRAM AXS wireless gears, she delivered a composed, powerful performance that earned her third place in the world.
Ethel shakes hands with her fellow podium finishers.
““I must say that I was more than a bit nervous and apprehensive in the lead-up to the event, but I reminded myself that it’s not as hard as The Gralloch. Would I get left standing at the start? I just had to remember all those hours turning the pedals in the shed.””
Her discipline paid off. The race began with a fast start across gravel farm tracks before heading into the twisting Limburg woods. The terrain rewarded consistency - a strength that’s become Ethel’s hallmark.
““There was such a friendly atmosphere at the start, and I was happy to be amongst the best. The race wasn’t particularly difficult and I felt that I gave it my best. The best moment was finding out that I was only three minutes off second and nine off first. Standing on the podium with riders who’ve been in the sport for years felt good.””
Ethel’s performance marked not only a personal triumph, but also a proud moment for LIOS Bikes, whose handcrafted titanium builds continue to show their capability at the highest levels of competition.
Matt’s Battle and Recovery
Matt Brokenshire pushing hard through the Limburg trails on his LIOS Paveway.
Racing in the men’s age-group category, Matt Brokenshire tackled the same challenging course aboard his carbon LIOS Paveway - also running SRAM AXS wireless gearing. His early pace was exceptional, averaging over 300 watts for five and a half hours, keeping him close to the front groups.
A heavy crash with 40 kilometres to go left him nursing injuries and a damaged front derailleur, yet he still fought through to finish 70th of 270 riders - a result that would have put him in the top 40 without the fall.
Matt showed true determination to finish strong despite a heavy fall.
““The worlds were awesome. Mum finished third on the podium which was incredible. I was close to the lead times of all the age group front groups, so I’m really encouraged for next year.””
Matt’s determination and resilience shone through - the same qualities that define the LIOS brand.
The Bikes Behind the Riders
Both bikes showcased the versatility and performance of LIOS Gravel Bikes.
Ethel’s LIOS Titanium Gravel Bike. Celebrated for its balance of comfort, durability and refined handling. Built to go the distance on mixed terrain.
Ethel and her LIOS Titanium Gravel Bike before the start in Maastricht.
Matt’s LIOS Paveway Carbon Gravel Bike. Lightweight and responsive, with race geometry designed for speed and stability on unpredictable surfaces.
Each equipped with SRAM AXS wireless gears, both represent the precision engineering and rider-focused design that define LIOS.
Matt and his custom painted LIOS Paveway carbon gravel bike.
