Loose gravel changes the traction under you and can cause the front or rear tire to slide. The best approach is to slow down to reduce the forces acting on the tires, giving you more time to react if the surface shifts. Gripping the handlebars firmly helps keep the front wheel steady and stops the bike from wandering as the gravel grips and releases differently. Riding smoothly—avoiding sudden inputs on the throttle, brakes, or steering—lets the tires maintain traction and stay on a steady path. By looking ahead to where you want to go and making gradual, controlled adjustments, you improve stability and control on the loose surface. Speeding up would increase the risk of a skid, and holding the handlebars loosely or weaving would make balance harder, so the chosen approach is the safer, more controllable method.