Matthew Wilson Wins Tulsa Tough Criterium on a Gravel Bike
Matthew Wilson, a professional off-road cyclist, secured a solo victory at the Tulsa Tough criterium on Oklahoma’s Cry Baby Hill on June 8, 2026. Riding a Scott Addict Gravel bike modified with road wheels and 32mm tires, Wilson broke away from the field for the final five laps, finishing 22 seconds ahead of runner-up Riley Wrightsman.
How a gravel bike won a major criterium
Wilson’s win at one of the most prominent U.S. criterium races was a late-decision entry, according to the rider. Eight days after qualifying for the Life Time Grand Prix, Wilson used his gravel setup—identical to the bike he rode to 28th place at Unbound Gravel—to navigate the technical 0.80-mile course. The course features a steep climb that reaches 15% gradient.
To adapt the gravel frame for a criterium, Wilson swapped his standard gravel wheels for deep-section Syncros road wheels. Because the entry was a last-minute decision, he sourced 32mm Schwalbe road tires from his teammate, Cam Jones. Wilson noted that the Scott Addict Gravel geometry is similar to the brand’s road-specific models, allowing the bike to remain responsive during the 10-lap closing attack.
Did You Know? Matthew Wilson competed using a 50t chainring and an 11-34t road cassette, the same gear ratio he used at the 200-mile Unbound Gravel race, despite the different demands of a short-course criterium.
Why this result marks a shift in visibility
Wilson’s performance highlights the increasing crossover between gravel and criterium disciplines. By his own admission, Wilson operated as an outsider, banking on the fact that established criterium teams like L39ION and the German-based DCC squad would not identify him as a primary threat. This anonymity allowed him to execute his move without immediate organized pursuit.
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Wilson’s victory demonstrates how modern gravel bike geometry is closing the performance gap with traditional road bikes. However, the result also signals that Wilson’s status in the U.S. racing scene has changed; his recent high-profile finishes mean he is unlikely to be underestimated by the peloton in future events.
What is next for the Life Time Grand Prix rider?
Following this victory, analysts expect Wilson to face tighter tactical marking in future criterium appearances. Given his recent successes, including winning wild card selections and a strong finish at last year’s Big Sugar, opponents are now alerted to his capabilities. Wilson stated he participated in the race to regain “punch” and high-end aerobic conditioning before the summer season, suggesting his primary focus remains on the upcoming gravel calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bike did Matthew Wilson ride at Tulsa Tough?
Wilson rode his Scott Addict Gravel RC, the same bike he used for the 200-mile Unbound Gravel race, modified with deep-section Syncros road wheels and 32mm Schwalbe tires.
How did the race finish unfold?
Wilson launched a 10-lap attack, eventually dropping Riley Wrightsman to ride solo for the final five laps. He finished 22 seconds ahead of Wrightsman and the chasing peloton.
Why did Wilson choose to race in Tulsa?
Wilson stated he entered the race to “get a bit of punch back in the legs” and to open his lungs before the summer season, while also taking advantage of being in the area for a separate Scott demo event.
Do you believe more gravel professionals will begin incorporating criterium racing into their training blocks?