Rules, Regulations & FAQs
Believe it or not, there are rules in GRVL®. Please familiarize yourself with our SBT GRVL® p/b Wahoo Rules and Regulations. We’ve also tried to read your minds and cover every question and topic; however, if there is something you don’t see addressed in our FAQ section give us a shout.
We are so lucky to have these beautiful gravel roads for our event. Please enjoy these roads and treat them like you are a guest.
Respect the Routt: SBT GRVL® Oaths
I will ride on the right side of the road and follow all traffic laws and Rules of the Road | I understand that these are open, public roads and that there are others using the roads for work and/or commuting | I will respectfully share these roads with all other users | I will use portable toilets to relieve myself and will not trespass on private property | I will practice kindness to others on and off the bike and understand that this event is
inclusive of all types of riders, regardless of age, race, gender or ability | I understand that breaking any of these Oaths may result in disqualification from SBT GRVL® and future GRVL® events.
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Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes. Riders must wear an ANSI certified helmet at ALL times while on the bike.
I don’t like what is going to be offered at aid stations. What should I do?
If you have specific preferences or dietary restrictions please bring your own fuel.
Are aerobars allowed?
Nope! Aerobars are not allowed during the Race or the Ride.
Can I listen to tunes during the Race or Ride?
No! Earbuds or speakers not allowed during the Race or the Ride.
Can I use a race radio?
No earbuds or speakers are not allowed during the Race or the Ride.
Is outside assistance allowed?
No. Only neutral aid station or fellow participants can help. Outside aid results in disqualification.
I lost something out on course during my ride. Is it possible to retrieve it?
We will have a Lost and Found items available on Monday during the downtown clean up. However, we do advise that if you want to keep something do not drop it on the course or leave it at an aid station.
Items cannot be mailed back.
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When will registration take place?
Early registration for our 2025 deferrals and volunteers, juniors, survey winners and parity initiatives: October 1-8, 2025. Random Selection Open Registration: October 14-31, 2025.
What if I miss the window, can I register later?
No, once the registration window has closed there will not be another opportunity to register.
Do I have to pay to enter the random selection?
You enter payment details, but your card is charged only if selected.
I ordered merchandise. What if I do not get into the event?
Your order will be canceled and you won't be charged. You can still purchase merch on sbtgrvl.com.
I was a volunteer. When do I get to register?
Early Registration (October 1-8, 2025) with code provided via email. Miss the deadline for early registration and entry is not guaranteed.
I deferred my entry to 2026. When do I get to register?
Early Registration (October 1-8, 2025) with code provided via email. Miss the deadline for early registration and entry is not guaranteed.
Can I roll my deferred entry forward to 2027?
No. Deferrals are only valid for the following year.
Can I choose a different course as a deferred rider?
Yes, you can choose any of the courses. It does not need to be the same course you were registered for in 2025.
What if I have a guaranteed entry but my friend doesn’t?
Register solo and hope they get in, or decline your guaranteed entry and apply together as a group in random selection.
What does the entry include?
SBT GRVL is more than a one day event, it is a 3 day experience with events for the whole family. We work with our partners to create activities for all including our Toddler Race, Breakfast Bash, Yoga in the Park, sponsor products demos and giveaways plus so much more. In addition, our rolling enclosure the black course race is the pinnacle of safety for our riders. Lastly, we have our post race party with food and drink, race recovery areas and our unique custom designed finisher hats.
Why is the entry fee on BikeReg different than on your website?
New laws require admin fees to be shown on registration site. Sales tax varies by state and is added at checkout.
Is there a special entry system for elite/professional athletes?
All pros must enter the random selection. Only past Black Course champions get guaranteed entries.
Do age group winners get guaranteed entry for 2026?
No. Only past Black Course champions receive guaranteed entries.
Is the entry fee for junior riders different?
Yes. Junior categories are 50% of the adult entry fee.
Are eBikes allowed at SBT GRVL p/b Wahoo?
Ebikes are allowed on our Blue, Red and Green courses. Participants are responsible for their batteries, we will not have any spares on course. Ebikes are PROHIBITED on our Black Course.
Can I register for multiple courses/events in the random selection?
No! Doing so will disqualify you from the random selection process.
What is group registration for the random selection process?
It allows families/friends to all be selected or not selected together. You can read more details about this very simple process here.
Must all group members register for the same course?
No. Each rider can select their own course during registration.
Can I change my random selection entry before the window closes?
Yes! Use the edit link in your confirmation email before October 31 to make any edits to your entry (or to remove yourself from the random selection process).
How will I find out if I got into the event?
You'll be emailed on November 5, 2025. Check spam/junk folders and make sure your payment method is valid.
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I registered for the Black Course and need to change my entry. Is this possible?
Yes. You may switch to the Green, Red or Blue courses up until the final course change deadline on May 22, 2026.
I would like to change the course that I registered for. Is that allowed?
Yes. Course changes are allowed until May 22, 2026.
When I defer my entry do I owe any money?
No. You pay the full 2027 entry fee when registering for the 2027 event in the fall of 2026. The deferral just holds your guaranteed spot for 2027.
When is the deferral deadline?
May 22, 2026.
When is the course change deadline?
May 22, 206.
Do you make exceptions to the deferral policy for illness, injury or any other extenuating circumstances?
No. The policy is applied consistently and no exceptions are made.
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What are the course distances?
Blue: 77 miles, Red: 53 miles, Green: 25 miles.
The nameplate is large. Can I cut it to make more aero?
No! Nameplates cannot be altered. Cut plates = no start.
What is the tyvek bib number for?
It goes on your back jersey pocket and must be worn throughout the event.
Where is the start line?
Yampa and 10th Street in downtown Steamboat Springs, CO.
What are the start times for the courses?
Black: 6:00/6:05/6:45
Blue: 7:00 am
Red: 7:30 am,
Green: 8:00 am.
How many aid stations are on course?
Black: 6
Blue: 4
Red: 4
Green: 2
Will there be mechanical support during the ride?
Yes, some support at aid stations. Be prepared to be self-sufficient.
Will there be charging or battery support for eBikes?
No. Bring an extra battery or choose a shorter course.
Will I get a time when I complete the course?
Yes. We will time all riders and you can download a finisher certificate.
Will there be food and beverages at the finish line?
Yes! Food, NA beverages, and beer will be available.
Will there be prizes?
No podiums for the Blue, Red or Green courses, but sponsors will raffle off prizes (must be present to win).
Are the courses open to traffic?
Yes. Follow all road rules including the centerline rule.
Do I have to stop at stop signs?
Yes! Violating road rules could lead to disqualification.
Is outside assistance allowed?
No. Only neutral aid stations may assist.
Can I ride more than two abreast?
No. Two abreast maximum.
Where can my family or friends watch me ride?
Spectating info will be in the Rider Guide.
Should I bring my own tools even with mechanical support?
Yes. Be ready to handle your own minor issues.
Will there be porta potties?
Yes, lots of them and definitely more at the beginning of the ride courses. We will provide the mile markers for where you can find porta potties in the rider guide.
Are there time cut offs?
Yes, there will be strict time cut offs for all courses. If you do not make the time cut off you will be directed onto the course distance below the one you are riding (example: don’t make the Blue time cut off you will be routed onto the red course).
Are there places to reroute onto a shorter course?
Yes. These will be the intersections where the time cut off are located. You can make a right and be on the shorter course.
What should I do with my trash?
Use jersey pockets or aid station bins. No littering on course. You are welcome to leave your wrappers at any on course aid station.
Will the course be marked?
Yes. However, signs get moved or can be missed. Download the course to your Wahoo/GPS just in case.
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What are the start times?
Pro Men/Open: 6:00am
Pro Women: 6:05am
Amateur: 6:45am
Will there be front number plates?
No. Number plates will be behind the seatpost and on the jersey.
What is this tyvek bib number for?
It goes on your back jersey pocket and must be worn throughout the event.
Will there be aid stations during the race?
Yes. There will be 6 aid stations on the black course.
Will there be mechanical support during the race?
Yes. Mechanics at aid stations and roving support. However, the wait could be an hour or more, depending on where they are on course. Be prepared to self-repair.
Will you have prizes?
Yes! Top 3 in each category get sponsor prizes. Must be present to win.
Is outside assistance allowed?
No. Only neutral aid stations may provide help. The one and only exception is at the Gun Range in Hayden for Black course riders. They may have support for their riders. If a rider takes outside support anywhere on courese outside of the Gun Range, they will be disqualified. The Gun Range will have both neutral and team support. Outside aid (not at the Gun Range)= disqualification.
Will there be porta potties?
Yes, and lots of them! Please reference the rider guide for the on-course porta potty locations.
I don’t like what is going to be offered at aid stations. What should I do?
Bring your own fuel if you have dietary restrictions or preferences. We will have Maurten products and an assortment of sweet and savory options; however, we highly recommend that you bring your own if you have specific requests or requirements.
What is a race bubble?
Rolling enclosure with traffic held at intersections. Riders in bubble have right of way.
Do I have to stop at stop signs?
Only if you're outside the race bubble. Inside, law enforcement manages traffic. That said, always look both ways and pay attention to cars, livestock and pedestrians on the road.
Can I ride more than two abreast?
Yes, inside the race bubble. Outside it, follow normal road rules.
Where can my family or friends watch me ride?
Viewing areas will be listed in the Rider Guide.
Are aerobars allowed?
Nope!
Should I bring my own tools even with mechanical support?
Yes. Be ready to handle your own minor issues. While we do our best to stock aid stations, the mechanics might not have every specific tool or item that you need. If in doubt, bring it with you.
Are there time cutoffs for Black Course race?
Yes, based on rolling enclosure rules.
Do I have to listen to race officials on motorcycles?
Yes! Obey all official directions, no exceptions.
What should I do with my trash?
Put it in your pocket. Dispose at aid stations or the finish.
Will the course be marked?
Yes. But download the course to your GPS device in case signs are moved.
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Are you having the GRVL® Femmes Team Challenge?
Yes. For 2026 there is a GRVL® Femmes Race on the Black Course. Time cutoffs will be enforced. The GRVL® Femmes teams will compete for a prize purse. There is also a GRVL® Femmes Challenge on the Green, Red and Blue Courses. The GRVL Femmes on the Challenge are competing for the Unity Award for a cash prize.
How do we enter the GRVL® Femmes Team Race or Challenge?
During random selection please select one of the GRVL® Femmes Team Challenge categories. We have the Femmes challenge across all the ride distances (Black, Blue, Red & Green). Every member of a GRVL® Femmes team must register for the same course.
Is the registration fee per team or per rider?
The registration fee is PER rider.
Where do I put my team name?
There will be a required question during registration and you will enter your team name in the text box. There is also a "Team Name" field within the registration information and you can put it there if you wish (not required).
Do all team members need to ride the same course?
Yes! The GRVL® Femmes Race and Challenge is for 3 or more riders to Race/Ride together on the same course.
Will there be prizes for the GRVL® Femmes Team Challenge?
Yes! There will be a cash prize for the top 3 teams on the Black Course Race and a cash prize for the GRVL® Femmes Challenge team who demonstrates the most unified team on the Green, Red or Blue Courses.
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Where do I pick up my packet for SBT GRVL?
At the registration tent in the Wahooligan Lot, downtown Steamboat Springs on Friday or Saturday, June 26 or 27, 2025. There is NO event day packet pick up. Please plan accordingly.
What days and times can I pick up my packet?
Friday, June 26: 12–8pm
Saturday, June 27: 9am–8pm.
What do I need to pick up my packet?
A valid photo ID. No exceptions.
Can someone else pick up my packet for me?
No. You must pick it up yourself.
Is there really no packet pickup on the day of the event?
Correct. Plan ahead—no day-of packet pickup.
I missed the course change deadline. Can I still switch courses?
Yes. $20 onsite fee applies. Please pick up your original bib first, then visit the Registration Help Desk.
Sunday Ride Policies—Green, Red and Blue Courses:
The Sunday Ride is not a race! All riders are subject to Colorado and Routt County laws as they participate. These are open roads and you must follow traffic rules including but not limited to:
Ride no more than two abreast. Please ride single file when appropriate in areas where the road is narrow and vehicles are needing to pass.
Ride as far to the right as safely possible
Stop at all stop signs unless waived through by law enforcement
Be aware of all other traffic around you–cars, trucks, and ranching equipment all use these roads and we are guests here.
Ebikes are allowed on all courses, but you are responsible for the life of your battery.
We will not have any prizes or podium presentations based on finishing time for Sunday’s Ride. However, we will have special random prizes and raffles at the finish, so please join us there for some cool swag from our sponsors.
Be prepared–bring a rain jacket, tools, and equipment to fix a flat tire. We will have limited technical assistance at the aid stations but it is your responsibility to be self-reliant.
If you change courses mid ride, shortcut a course, or don’t finish–please let the timer know at the finish line so they can count you as done and adjust your time.
Sunday Race Policies and Rules—Black Course
These races are being run as “rolling enclosures” which means we are creating a race safety bubble that allows riders to move through the course with full right-of-way. As long as riders are behind the “Lead Closure Car” and ahead of the “End of Convoy” vehicle, they have full use of the road and right-of-way in all intersections. That being said, all riders should keep their heads up and not dive through blind corners as cars can sometimes mistakenly get on these narrow dirt roads. Please see the graphic below for a visual interpretation of the rolling enclosure:
As soon as riders are passed by the “End of Convoy” car, they are subject to all rules of the road as if they were on a casual Sunday ride (see “rules of the road” section in the our Ride Policies for more detail).
Riders who are passed by the “End of Convoy” car are still eligible for placings and prizes. We expect that some podium positions may be contested from riders who are dropped from the race bubble, but we expect those riders to respect the rules of the road while still contending for a podium place. Racers who are outside of their race bubble and get caught from behind by another race bubble will need to move to the far right and listen to the instructions from moto drivers and officials from the catching group.
Riders can only work with other riders who were in their same start group. Pro Men can only draft Pro Men, Pro Women can only draft Pro Women, and all Amateur riders can draft each other regardless of age category. This includes inside and outside of the Race Bubble..
If you would like to change races (switch pro race to age group, or age group to pro) then you must make that change at packet pickup no later than Saturday. No changes can be made on Sunday morning.
Stationary trainers, spot holders, or bikes left unattended are not allowed and will be removed from the start chute
Out of respect for your fellow competitors, please make all attempts and plan accordingly to attend the Awards Ceremony if you believe you are in competition for a top result. Failure to attend the awards ceremony may result in the loss of placings or prizes. If you have a legitimate reason you cannot attend, please make the appropriate race staff aware.
Ebikes are not permitted for our Black Course Race.
Rule Violation Consequences:
Consequences will be handed out on a sliding scale, depending on the nature of the infraction.
Level One: Warning (two warnings equals a higher consequence)—minor infraction or misunderstanding, race number partially obstructed, unintentionally littering, minor traffic rule infraction, etc.
Level Two: Relegation to a lower position in the results, and/or loss of prizes—safety rule infraction, disrespect toward a race official or fellow competitor, minor violation of outside support or missing a race number, dangerous riding.
Level Three: Disqualification from the race/ride—major safety rule infraction or repeated violation, major disrespect to race official, law enforcement, or community member, cheating.
Level Four: Disqualification and banned from future GRVL® events—Major infraction, blatant disregard for policies and disrespect for staff, volunteers, law enforcement or community member, intentional trespassing