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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What day do the race and ride take place?
The race on the Black Course and our Rides on the Blue, Red and Green courses will take place on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
The Expo and other activities will all take place on Friday and Saturday, June 26 & 27. The weekend schedule is here.
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?
Except for our Black Course (which has a supported feed zone) only neutral aid station or fellow participants can help. Outside aid (beyond the supported feed zone) 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 at our production lot at the Steamboat Springs High School from 9am-3pm. 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?
We will post the timeline for 2027 registration when it is confirmed here. We will have early registration for our deferred riders, volunteers, juniors, parity initiative and survey winners prior to the random selection process for the general public.
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?
Volunteers will enter during our early registration window BEFORE the random selection process and will receive instructions via email on how to register. Miss the deadline for early registration and entry is not guaranteed.
I deferred my entry to 2027. When do I get to register?
Deferred riders will enter during our early registration window BEFORE the random seleciton process and will receive instructions via email on how to register. Miss the deadline for early registration and entry is not guaranteed.
Can I roll my deferred entry forward to 2028?
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 2026.
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 receive guaranteed entries.
Do age group winners get guaranteed entry for 2027?
No. Only past Black Course champions receive guaranteed entries.
Is there a different registration for juniors in the USA Cycling Junior Gravel Series?
Juniors should enter during the early registration period during the random selection window.
Which course do juniors register for in the Junior Gravel National Series?
The Black Course Race (108 Miles).
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 the random selection window closes 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 will be emailed a notification letting you know if you were selected, or NOT selected, a few days after the random selection closes. 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, 2027.
I would like to change the course that I registered for. Is that allowed?
Yes. Course changes are allowed until May 22, 2027.
When I defer my entry do I owe any money?
No. You pay the full 2028 entry fee when registering for the 2028 event in the fall of 2027. The deferral just holds your guaranteed spot for 2028.
When is the deferral deadline?
May 22, 2027.
When is the course change deadline?
May 22, 2027.
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: 73 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?
We will post the start times on the website once they are finalized for the 2027 event.
How many aid stations are on course?
Black: 7
Blue: 6
Red: 4
Green: 1
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 is the course distance?
108 miles.
What are the start times?
We will post the start times on the website once they are finalized for the 2027 event.
Will there be front number plates?
No. Number plates will be behind the seat post 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 7 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 sole exception is at the Gun Range in Hayden for Black course riders. There is a Team Feed Zone at that aid station (more information will be in the Rider Guide once published). If a rider takes outside support anywhere on course 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) results in 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, we will have cutoffs on the Black Course. More information will provided as soon as it is available.
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.
I am doing the SBT TRL race AND the Black Course Race on Sunday. Is there a competition for this "double"?
Yes! Thanks for taking on the GRVL® TRL Challenge. We will have an overall male and female category and the standings are based on equal weighting from the run and bike. Each athlete’s run time and bike time (both converted from minutes to seconds) are scored relative to the fastest time in that stage. Those two scores are then added together to the total score--lowest score wins. Here is an example: Athlete A runs a 47:15 and rides a 6:18. The fastest times for each stage are 45:00 for the run and 6:00 for the bike. Athlete A's score would be: 2835/2700=1.05 and 22680/21600=1.05. 1.05+1.05=2.1 total score.
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Are you having the GRVL® Femmes Team Challenge?
Yes. For 2027 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 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.
What if some of the team members get selected via the Random Selection and others don’t?
We have reserved spots so that all GRVL Femmes participants will be accepted into the event via the Random Selection process.
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.
Can I create a team for GRVL® Femmes and then add members to the team later?
No. All team members need to register during early registration or enter the random selection process. After random selection, the event will be sold out and participants will be unable to register for the event. You cannot create a team and "save" entries for later.
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 prize for the GRVL® Femmes Challenge team who demonstrates the most unified team on the Green, Red or Blue Courses.
Where can I find out even more information about GRVL® Femmes?
Please see our GRVL® Femmes page on the website here.
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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 of event weekend. There is NO event day packet pick up. Please plan accordingly.
What days and times can I pick up my packet?
Friday: 12–5:30pm
Saturday: 9am–6pm.
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. $25 onsite fee applies. Please pick up your original bib first, then visit the Registration Help Desk.
Sunday Ride Policies—Green, Red and Blue Courses:
All Riders must follow all Rules of the Road:
The Blue, Red and Green courses are 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 or certified traffic safety flagger
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 the Blue, Red or Green Course Rides. 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.
For rail crossings, riders must stop if the lights, signals or crossing arms are active or if a train is reasonably close, signaling, or visible. Any race stoppage for a rail crossing will be considered a race incident with no adjustments in time or place.
Interacting with the Pros
One of the unique aspects of SBT GRVL® is the opportunity for amateur riders to share the course with some of the best professional gravel racers in the world. These athletes are competing at the highest level, and as us mere cycling mortals are aware, are traveling at very high speeds; particularly in the closing miles of the race and as they enter the finishing chute.
If you hear lead vehicles, motos, or pro riders approaching from behind, please move safely to the right side of the course (or as otherwise directed) and allow them to pass. This helps ensure the safety of both the pros and fellow participants. We also know getting passed by the pros can make for spectacular social content, however we ask that if you have the urge to grab your camera, that you do so from the side of the road while you are stationary. Loose gravel, rocks, and ruts (especially on Zipp Cow Creek) make riding with one hand on the bars unsafe for even the most experienced videographers.
Key Notes If Being Passed by the Pro Field
Be predictable and stay to the right in single file unless otherwise directed
Give the right of way to those passing you
Refrain from taking pictures or videos unless stopped and out of the race line
Do not jump on the back wheel of the rider(s) passing you
Sunday Race Policies and Rules—Black Course
Staging Information
The start area will be available for staging at these times:
Elite Men: 5:30 AM
Elite Women: 5:30 AM within the designated corral
Amateur: 6:10 AM
Stationary trainers, spot holders, or bikes left unattended are not allowed and will be removed from the start chute.
All black waves will have a neutral start to the Steamboat Springs city limits and will have a rolling race start at that point.
Start Times:
Elite Men: 6:00 AM
Elite Women: 6:05 AM
Amateur Starts: This year, the Black Course will feature two self-selected amateur start waves designed to create a smoother, safer, and more comfortable experience for all riders. As the Black Course continues to attract the largest field of the weekend, this format will help distribute riders more evenly early in the event and allow participants to choose the start environment that best matches their pace and riding style.
The two self-selected amateur start waves will depart as follows:
Wave 1 – 6:45 AM Start
This wave is intended for riders who anticipate finishing before 1:30 PM (approximately a 17+ mph average pace), as well as those who are comfortable with a faster, more competitive start alongside similarly paced riders. Front riders will have a rolling closure.
Wave 2 – 6:50 AM Start
This wave is ideal for riders who anticipate finishing after 1:30 PM (under approximately a 17 mph average pace), or for those who prefer a more relaxed and manageable rollout with less congestion and positioning pressure at the start line. Riders in this wave will have the same intersection control as Wave 1.
Trying to decide which start is right for you? Here are a few important details to help guide your decision:
Both waves are part of the official Black Course event.
Each wave will have its own official gun time. Your overall finish time will be based on the start time of your selected wave.
Riders in both waves remain fully eligible for podium awards within their respective categories.
Concerned about starting five minutes later and still making the course cutoff? The Mile 38 cutoff time will be adjusted accordingly, ensuring riders starting in the 6:50 AM wave have the same amount of time to reach the checkpoint and continue on the full Black Course.
Our goal is simple: to create a safer, more enjoyable start experience while giving each participant the opportunity to select the wave that best fits their expected pace and preferred riding dynamic.
During packet pickup, our staff will ask which wave you would like to join. Your seatpost number will then be marked accordingly:
“1” for the 6:45 AM wave
“2” for the 6:50 AM wave
Most importantly, we ask that you select the wave that best reflects your expected pace and riding style so we can maintain a fair, safe, and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Rolling Enclosure:
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:
An initial selection for the portion of the field protected by the rolling closure will be made after the Cow Creek section of the course at mile 11. The rolling closure will protect those in the front of the competitive group(s).
Riders protected by the rolling closure at this point will be shown green flags by race staff positioned at this location.
Riders shown a yellow flag will be outside of the rolling closure and must follow all traffic laws and rules of the road.
Past this point, riders passed by the marked “End of Convoy” vehicle are outside of the safety bubble. Once passed by the “End of Convoy” vehicle, riders are subject to all rules of the road as if participating in a casual Sunday ride (see the “Rules of the Road” section in the Blue, Red, and Green Ride Policies for additional detail).
Intersections will be staffed with safety personnel for riders outside of the safety bubble.
The following are important locations concerning the rolling closure and use of roadways:
Riders who are within the race “bubble” after the blue course splits from the black course at mile 70 must stay to the right of the centerline on all paved roads.
See the map of the finish for information on the fenced finish chute and final corners.
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.
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