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 races on our Black, Blue, Red courses and Green course ride will take place on Sunday, June 27, 2027.
The Expo and other activities will all take place on Friday and Saturday, June 25 & 26.
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?
Check with the volunteer and informaiton tent on event weekend. We will have Lost & Found available on Monday after the event as well (time and location TBD). 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 2026 deferrals and volunteers, juniors, survey winners and parity initiatives: October 1-8, 2026. Random Selection Open Registration: October 14-31, 2026.
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.
I was a volunteer. When do I get to register?
Early Registration (October 1, 2026) with link provided via email. Miss the deadline for early registration and entry is not guaranteed.
I deferred my entry to 2027. When do I get to register?
Early Registration (October 1, 2026) with link provided via email. 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.
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?
We will confirm the course for the 2027 USAC Junior Gravel National Series as soon as possible.
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'll be emailed on November 5, 2026. 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?
We will have podium awards (Top 3 per age category) for the Blue and Red courses. Must be present to receive your prize.
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?
The amateur riders will have front number plates and a bib for the back of the jersey. Our pro athletes will have seatpost plates and a bib for the back of 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 receive 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?
We will run a rolling enclosure for our pro athletes only. All other courses are rules of the road.
Do I have to stop at stop signs?
Our pro athletes will follow the directions of law enforcement within the rolling enclosure. If you're a pro athlete outside the race bubble or an amateur athlete then rules of the road apply and you must stop at stop signs. 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 DBL BLK Challenge. We will have an overall male and female category and the standings are based on equal weighting from the run and bike (see next question for details on scoring). There will be a category for these two events combined during registration process that you can sign up for when you register.
How will the winners be calculated for the DBL BLK Challenge (SBT TRL Black + SBT GRVL Black)?
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 2:10 and rides a 6:18. The fastest times for each stage are 2:00 for the run and 6:00 for the bike. Athlete A's score would be: 7800/7200=1.08 and 22680/21600=1.05. 1.08+1.05=2.13 total score.
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Are you having the GRVL® Femmes Team Challenge?
Yes. For 2027, there will be a dedicated GRVL® Femmes Race on the Black, Blue, and Red courses, and time cutoffs will be enforced. The GRVL® Femmes teams on these three courses will compete for a prize purse. Furthermore, GRVL® Femmes teams across all four courses (Black, Blue, Red, and Green) will be eligible for the Unity Award, which is voted on by all participating Femmes teams and includes 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. There will be races on our Black, Blue and Red courses. We will have the Femmes challenge across all the ride distances (Black, Blue, Red & Green).--our Unity Prize. 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, Blue, and Red courses. Additionally, there will be a prize for the GRVL® Femmes Challenge team that demonstrates the most unified team presence across all 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, June 25 or Saturday, June 26 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, June 25: 12–5:30pm
Saturday, June 26: 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.
I registered for the MTN CLMB p/b by Ventum. Where do I pick up my packet?
You can pick up your MTN CLMB bib on Friday, June 25 at the registration tent in the Wahooligan Lot, downtown Steamboat Springs between 12:00-4:30pm. After that you can pick up your bib at the Steamboat Resort beginning at 5:30pm.
I am registered for the SBT TRL Race on Saturday morning. Where do I pick up my packet?
You can pick up your SBT TRL bib on Friday, June 25 at the registration tent in the Wahooligan Lot, downtown Steamboat Springs between 12:00-5:30pm. Or, you can pick up your bib on race morning at Howelsen Hill beginning at 7:00am.
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Will there be waves for each course at the SBT GRVL® start?
Yes. We will have wave starts for the Black, Blue and Red Courses. Each course will have two waves separated by five minutes.
Why are you doing wave starts for the Black, Blue and Red Courses?
Our goal is simple: to create a safer, more enjoyable start experience while giving each rider the opportunity to select the wave that best fits their expected pace and preferred riding dynamic. 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 riders.
How do I choose my wave start?
If you are registering for the Black, Blue or Red Course, you will be required to choose your wave when you register for the event.
Does the Green Course have separate waves?
No. All Green Course riders will begin at 7:40 AM with Red Course Wave 2.
What if I want to change the wave I am in?
You will be able to make this change on the registration platform until May 22, 2027.
Will I still be eligible for podium prizes if I start in Wave 2?
Yes. Each wave will have its own gun time, so riders in Wave 2 will still be eligible for podium prizes.
Will the cutoff time be adjusted for the Wave 2 start?
Yes. Wave 2 riders will have the same amount of time to reach the course cutoff as Wave 1 riders.
How will we stage for our waves at the race start?
Your race bib will indicate whether you are in Wave 1 or Wave 2. We will have designated areas for each wave to stage for the start.
What if I realize during race weekend that my friends and I are in different waves?
Riders can move to a later wave (Wave 2) on race weekend, but not an earlier wave (Wave 1). If you and your friends are in different waves and want to ride together, everyone is welcome to start in Wave 2.
We have a GRVL® Femmes team. Do we all have to be in the same wave?
No. Your team members can select the waves that best fit their individual paces and riding styles. Of course, if you want to start and ride together, you are welcome to select the same wave!
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What are the distances for the SBT TRL run?
We will have a 5K (SBT TRL Green), 10K (SBT TRL Blue) and 20K (SBT TRL Black).
When does the SBT TRL run take place?
On June 26, 2027, 8:00am at Howelsen Hill, which is located just across the river from downtown Steamboat Springs and the SBT GRVL® Expo.
I signed up for SBT TRL but need to defer my entry to 2028. Can I do that?
Yes. You will receive a 50% credit that will be applied to your entry fee for the 2028 event. You can make this change by logging into your registration account and electing to defer your entry. The deadline to defer your TRL entry is May 22, 2027.
Can I change my SBT TRL course before race day?
Yes. You can make a course change by logging into your registration account prior to the course change deadline of June 20, 2027.
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 DBL BLK Challenge. We will have an overall male and female category and the standings are based on equal weighting from the run and bike (see next question for details on scoring). There will be a category for these two events combined during registration process that you can sign up for when you register.
How will the winners be calculated for the DBL BLK Challenge (SBT TRL Black + SBT GRVL Black)?
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 2:10 and rides a 6:18. The fastest times for each stage are 2:00 for the run and 6:00 for the bike. Athlete A's score would be: 7800/7200=1.08 and 22680/21600=1.05. 1.08+1.05=2.13 total score.
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When does the MTN CLMB take place?
The MTN CLMB takes place on Friday, June 25, 2027 at 6:30 PM at Steamboat Resort.
If I sign up for the prologue race, can I do the costume climb as well?
Yep! And we encourage it—you can race in your costume as well.
I only want to do the costume climb. Is that possible?
Yes. There is a "Costume Only" category offered during registration.
What is the prize for winning the MTN CLMB?
Our Overall Male and Female winners, and our Junior Boy and Girl winners will each receive a prize our sponsors.
Do you offer refunds if I can't make it?
There are no refunds for the MTN CLMB, as the $25 entry fee is a donation to our local nonprofit partner, The Cycle Effect. If you can't make it, we will miss you, but you can rest assured your entry fee is going to a good cause—getting girls on bikes!
Sunday Policies—All Amateur Riders, All Courses:
All Riders must follow all Rules of the Road:
The Green course 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 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 our Blue, Red or Green courses, but you are responsible for the life of your battery. Ebikes are NOT allowed on the Black Course.
We will not have any prizes or podium presentations for our Green Course Riders.
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, Blue and Red Courses
Staging Information
The start area will be available for staging at these times:
Elite Men: 5:15 AM
Elite Women: 5:15 AM within the designated corral
Amateur: 5:50 AM
Stationary trainers, spot holders, or bikes left unattended are not allowed and will be removed from the start chute.
All black, blue & red 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: 5:45 AM
Elite Women: 5:50 AM
Amateur Starts: This year, the Black, Blue & Red Courses will feature self-selected amateur start waves designed to create a smoother, safer, and more comfortable experience for all riders. 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.
More information on selecting your wave during the registration process is to come….
Things to consider when selecting your wave:
Trying to decide which start is right for you? Here are a few important details to help guide your decision:
Both waves on each course are part of the official 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 cutoff times will be adjusted accordingly, ensuring riders starting in each wave have the same amount of time to reach the checkpoint and continue on their full 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.
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 for Elite/Pros Only:
These Elite/Pro waves 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 above 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.
All Amateurs will follow “rules of the road” as detailed above.
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