We welcome you to join us in some of the most incredible riding destinations in the world.

SV Travel offers unique travel adventures on and off the bike with many unique twists.

JAPAN

The Southern Islands of Japan
Shimanami Kaido, Hiroshima & the Volcanoes of Kyushu
8 Days

Sunday, May 7 - Sunday, May 14, 2023

No place rivals Japan when it comes to providing an abundance of incredible experiences in a short period of time. We’re offering a unique departure to explore Japan’s longest cycle friendly bicycle bridge system in the world, the Shimanami Kaido, followed by a remote ride through the foothills into Hiroshima with a visit to the Peace Memorial - a World Heritage Site.

The remainder of our trip sees us travelling further south by the high-speed Shinkansen train to the third largest island of Japan: Kyushu, a mountainous region known for its soaring volcanic peaks, steaming hot springs, peaceful beaches and slow-paced living. We will further explore this amazing island by bike, staying in traditional ryokan inns along the way.

• Transportation: All ground transport included and on the road vehicle SAG support.

• Arrival Airport: Osaka International Airport (KIX)

• Departure Airport: Fukuoka International Airport (FUK)

• Guides: Our SV ride leaders, and our local Japanese team will be on the front each day assisting you throughout each stage of this remarkable journey.

• Accommodations: All-inclusive 3-4 star, charming single and double occupancy rooms included.

• Road Food & Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners included, plus all ride nutrition and hydration, rice cakes and post ride beers provided.

Double Occupancy: $6,875
Single Occupancy: $7,995
Includes hotel, on-road vehicle and guide support, ride nutrition, limited laundry & recovery and most meals (excluding alcohol).

COLORADO

ASPEN + STEAMBOAT SPRINGS SBT GRVL RACE ESCAPE

August 2023 | 7 Days

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains are a place of legendary wonder, and when it comes to American cycling, they have been hallowed ground for decades, with famous races like the Coors Classic and the Leadville 100. In the new era of Gravel cycling, Colorado offers spectacular riding and one of the premier gravel races: SBT GRVL (Steamboat Gravel).

Studio Velo and RAID’s expeditionary force invite you to join them on a very special Gravel Escape comprised of training, riding and racing some of the very best gravel routes in the Colorado Rockies! Starting in world-famous Aspen, this trip will begin with several days of acclimatizing, exceptional mixed-terrain riding and delicious food before transferring to Steamboat Springs, the home of Moots Cycles, for further preparation, great riding and racing SBT GRVL.

You heard SBT GRVL sold out in 25 minutes? No problem -- we have secured five highly desirable entries for the race, and as part of this Escape, your entry and participation are included in this unique package! But we won’t throw you out on the gravel at high elevation to fend for yourself. This Escape is designed from the ground up to provide each guest with the coaching, tools and knowledge to better one’s gravel riding skills, improve hydration and nutrition strategies, and manage the challenges of a tough, long, gravel race. Can you hear the cowbells, whoops and hollers on race day?

Our 7-day Escape will reflect our deep knowledge of gravel cycling and our affinity for Aspen and Steamboat via carefully planned routes showcasing the best of this part of the Rockies. Guests will enjoy delightful restaurants, great accommodations, a visit to the Moots factory, a stout gravel race, the outstanding care, support and coaching of the SV/RAID team, and a lot of laughs and collegiality. Join us for this Escape, you’ll be a better rider for it!

WHAT IS SBT GRVL?
SBT GRVL is a world-class gravel race experience held on the spectacular gravel roads of Routt County, Colorado, with a start/finish in historic Steamboat Springs. The combination of the quiet roads surrounding the thriving resort town create the setting for an incredible gravel bike race. With the fundamental goal of inclusiveness, we want to focus not only on the race, but the culmination of a fantastic Colorado getaway with old and new friends. The beauty of Routt County, the camaraderie, and the challenge of covering these gravel roads on two wheels is something that will not soon be forgotten!

WHO IS THE GRAVEL ESCAPE DESIGNED FOR?
This Gravel Escape is designed for the intermediate and advanced gravel rider. Race experience is not required, and our aim is to have fun and to facilitate a safe, positive learning experience for all. Daily distances & elevation will average 30-55 mi & 2,500-5,000 vertical feet of climbing with optional longer routes available. Expect 90% of our routes to be on mixed terrain, gravel roads, some trail & pavement. Please Note: This trip will take place at Elevations Consistently Above 8,000 ft. (Aspen) and 6,700 ft. (Steamboat). If you have incurred trouble at altitude previously, including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), we do not recommend this trip.

OUR PRIVATE CHEF, LENTINE ALEXIS
Food nourishes us, helps us achieve our performance goals, and puts a smile on our faces. During the first two nights in Aspen, we will dine at delicious, locally-owned restaurants. Once in Steamboat, we will be in the care of private chef and former pro endurance athlete Lentine Alexis. Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, Lentine will bring her experience as both a classically trained chef + intuition as a athlete-chef and chef-for-athletes to the table as she curates delicious, farm-fresh, healthy meals that will nourish, balance, help us tackle SBT GRVL, and keep us smiling. As good as the food will be, Lentine will also ride with us, stay with us and share some of her stories about training, racing and cooking all over the world with an athletic heart, making this Escape even more special. Did we mention she’s planning to race alongside us for part of SBT GRVL? Just make sure she hands over the “Sweet Ride Snacks” before she peels away to prepare dinner! Learn more about Lentine here.

OUR COACH, TIM FLEMING, MSC
For most of us, this will be a big week deserving of focused training ahead of our Gravel Escape. We are partnering with Tim Fleming of Endurance Performance Training Center in order to offer guests targeted testing and coaching that will allow them to prepare as efficiently and productively as possible. Tim’s services are an additional cost (not inclusive in the trip price) and can be reviewed below. If there is a strong response from guests for Tim’s services, Tim may join the trip as a guide in order to continue to coach and mentor from the bike and van during the week in Colorado at no additional charge.

Tim is an exercise physiologist and USA Cycling Level II coach specializing in exercise testing, training prescriptions and nutrition in endurance sport. Tim has been a part of the science and coaching programs at Endurance Performance Training Center since 2007. As Studio Velo’s Taylor Walker writes,

“Tim is a very talented lab tech, coach and teacher – the knowledge and enthusiasm he brings forth every day to help his clients improve and grow is remarkable. Having experienced Tim’s physiological testing process and coaching, I can attest to the approach and the results. I went back to events like Fish Rock and the Tushar Crusher after working with Tim and did better, and more important, felt so much better and had so much more fun, it was remarkable.”

Physiological Testing & Consultation w/ INSCYD ANALYTICS (lab or remote): Exercise testing provides an athlete with a level of clarity and customization that optimizes return on time invested in training. Understanding how the body produces energy not only leads to better training recommendations, but also to insight into fueling and nutrition requirements. A lab visit provides more than just a set of training zones, it reveals the ever-changing metabolic profile; knowing your complete set of physiological variables allow you to reach higher levels of fitness & performance.

Sweat Testing: Get a customized hydration plan according to your physiology. Keeping hydrated is dependent on several variables, where in addition to environment and level of fitness, your unique physiology plays a significant role, including your genetically pre-determined sweat rate and the amount of sodium lost in your sweat. Across individuals, these variables can range considerably. While sweat rate and sweat sodium concentration can change slightly depending on the environment and daily stimulus, for the most part they remain constant. Therefore, these variables can be measured to fine-tune your hydration requirements depending on your level of activity and training.

Endurance PTC Pricing for Gravel Escape Attendees:

• Physiological Testing & Consultation $325 (retail/a la carte $375)
  w/ INSCYD ANALYTICS (lab or remote)

• Sweat Testing $150 (retail/a la carte $175)

• Training Plan (2x 12-week templates) $275 (retail/a la carte $350)

• Sub-Totals: $750 (retail/a la carte: $900)

• Re-test Option $300 (retail/a la carte: $325)

• TOTALS: $1,050 (retail/a la carte $1,225)

SBT GRVL COURSES:
The SBT GRVL courses will be fun, but not without challenge. Courses will be well marked and there will be fully stocked aid stations with GU Energy, Coke, water, ice and all sorts of great things to get you through your day. Four route options exist for racers and participants, and you can choose to ride solo or as a small team, joining our on-the-bike SV Ride leaders that will lead the way on race day.

Black Course:

• Course Facts: 144 miles with approximately 9,400 feet of climbing with 100+ miles of gravel

• Black is the experience you have been looking for. The ultimate Steamboat challenge with unmatched beauty and unmatched support. It is the best day you will ever have on a bike.

Blue Course:

• Course Facts: 103 miles with approximately 6,300 feet of climbing with 70+ miles of gravel

• Blue is the best of Steamboat wrapped up in 100 miles.

Red Course:

• Course Facts: 64 miles with approximately 4,100 feet of climbing with 50+ miles of gravel

• Red is the go-to route for a solid day on the bike. Whether you are looking to throw down the hammer or spin around some gorgeous Steamboat gravel enjoying the scenery, this course will prove to be an amazing day for everyone!

Green Course:

• Course Facts: 37 miles with approximately 2,000 feet of climbing with approximately 20 miles of gravel

• Green is the introduction to the best riding in Steamboat and accessible to all abilities, ages and experience levels. If you enjoy being outside and have access to any type of bike you can and should do this ride. It will change your life!

WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED FOR THIS ESCAPE?
This journey is designed specifically for gravel riding and the support and maintenance of gravel bikes. Therefore, we will only allow true gravel bikes with hydraulic disc brakes and 700 or 650 wheel sets on this adventure. If you don't have a proper bike and wanted to discuss options, please visit Studio Velo; we are the local experts and can help you properly prepare for this trip.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TIRE CHOICE, FRESH BRAKES & GEARING
Most of our riding will be on gravel roads, two track and single track. The surfaces in August are likely to be dry and loose. Larger tires (35mm -- 42mm) designed for these conditions are a must. Please have fresh tires on your bike before the trip begins. Fresh brakes, too (fluid, pads, rotors)! Gearing that affords a 1:1 ratio is advised. Studio Velo is happy to provide help on tire and gearing choices, and all of your servicing needs. Please Note: our Service Department gets booked up far in advance in high season. As soon as you sign-up for this trip, we strongly encourage you to contact the store and book a service appointment for your bike to be serviced by Aug. 5th.

TRIP SUMMARY & DETAILS:

• Transportation: All ground transport included and on the road vehicle SAG support.

• Bike Rental: Your personal bike is recommended for this trip. We will happily transport your bikes and gear to/from Mill Valley to Colorado for an additional fee.

• Arrival & Departure: We suggest you arrive and depart to/from Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), also known as Sardy Field. It is within 10 minutes of downtown Aspen. Our support vehicles will ONLY be providing arrival and return transfers to Aspen. If you would like to consider arriving and or departing from Denver, there are options, but those logistics will be left up to you.

• Ride Leaders & Support: Our Mercedes Sprinter vans will depart from Mill Valley ahead of the trip. Let us take all your gear and bikes and meet us in Aspen. We will return to Mill Valley after the trip with your gear and bikes as well (additional fee will apply for this service).

  Our SV ride leaders and coaches will be on the front & back each day assisting you throughout each stage of this remarkable journey.

  The trip logistics will be delivered by 25-year veteran trip designer and local Mill Valley resident Brad Sauber. Brad brings a deep passion and many years of experience in facilitating remarkable cycling tours for many notable companies. Brad has spent more than a decade riding in Colorado and leading trips in the Rocky mountains. His experience and love for this remarkable region will provide us with an outstanding and memorable gravel adventure.

• Accommodations: While in Aspen-Snowmass, we will be staying at the newly built luxury Limelight Hotel Snowmass. While in Steamboat Springs, we have reserved condos at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas, an upscale, 270-room hotel in the heart of the resort village near the ski lifts.

• Road Food & Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinners are included, as are ride nutrition and hydration.

Pricing:
Double Occupancy: $5,500 per person, shared room
Single Occupancy: $6,750 per person, private room

Price Includes: All ground transport included, guided gravel rides, food and airport transfers. SBT GRVL entrance is included. We will happily transport your bikes and gear to/from Mill Valley to Colorado for an additional fee. Please send us a note if you would like to have us transfer your bike and equipment. The “All-Inclusive” price(s) include hotel & chalet accommodation on double-occupancy basis, guided rides, on-road vehicle SAG support, all ground transfers, meals (excluding alcohol) and ride nutrition.

Not Included: Airfare, personal expenses, and gratuities for trip staff are not included.

TRIP ARCHIVE

Trips linked below are a selection of our recent and favorite trips. These trips will likely be offered again in the future and may also be available for custom requests. Please contact us with any questions you might have.

SV:Travel Policy

We strive to ensure our guests have the most flexibility when signing up for a cycling adventure.

DEPOSITS

Deposits are refundable up to 90 days before the trip start date. Within 90 days of the trip, deposits are no longer refundable.

REFUNDS

There are no refunds on balance of trip payments made toward the trip within 60 days of the trip start. Once final payment is requested (60 days from the start of the trip) there are no refunds of any kind.

Testimonials

“When friends ask about my recent cycling trip to Japan, I answer: I went with high expectations and those expectations were exceeded. It was truly an epic experience.”

-- By Anonymous (Southern Japan, May 2019)

I had a wonderful time! The northern Girona region of Spain is stunning and our daily ride route provided the perfect balance of challenging terrain and rewarding views. Ultimately, it was the people involved that made this trip so memorable - smart, FUNNY, positive, thoughtful, engaging and curious. A very special group. The SV Travel team exceeded expectations w/ this tour, and did an incredible job orchestrating the many elements (group dynamics, home base location, daily routes, menus, cultural activities, hospitality and support) that made the 2018 Girona Trip such a success. The food deserves special recognition -locally sourced, fresh, festive, plentiful, and beautifully presented. SO good! Muchas Gracias and Bravo SV Travel. Looking forward to more adventures in the saddle together in 2019!

-- By Carla Bourque (Northern Spain, May 2018)

Studio Velo trips are the highlight of our year for several reasons. First, impeccable and thorough attention to detail make it a true vacation. We don't have to plan, think, or take responsibility for anything, knowing we can trust the team.Secondly, the camaraderie between guests most often leads to new friendships post trip. Thirdly, discovering new regions and the local culture expands our cultural horizons. Fourthly, tailoring the rides to the groups ability both challenges and expands each individuals ability as a cyclist. Lastly, plain and simple, great fun!

-- Loring Sagan (Southern Spain, May 2017)

Such a great trip! Exciting, exhilarating, enchanting! We are smitten!

-- Andy Cunningham (Southern Spain, May 2017)

The SV team hosted an exceptional trip. The road selections were scenic and had virtually no cars, the food was healthy and exceptionally delicious and local, safety was always a priority. The guides did an excellent job making the trip challenging and enjoyable for a wide range of cycling abilities. The support staff were talented and skilled, including the bike mechanic and massage therapist. I'm looking forward to next year's trip!

-- Nick R. Southern France, June 2018