Tuesday, 11 February 2025
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Sea Otter Classic 2025 bets harder on gravel

Key international cycle event Life Time Sea Otter Classic presented by Continental (hereafter referred to as Sea Otter Classic) has bolstered its gravel offering to be “bigger and better than ever before”, with new gravel race distances, top-tier brand experiences and star power.

There will be brand new race routes – and racing opportunities for participants of all skill levels, chance to qualify for the Life Time UNBOUND Gravel presented by Shimano and chance to meet top pros from the Life Time Grand Prix. The new courses are made up of 30 mile laps with 3,500 feet of climbing per lap. There will be 30, 60 and 90-mile options, suitable for all from first-time racers to elite-level endurance challengers.

For the first time, 50 Sea Otter Gravel racers will be able to secure their spot to race UNBOUND Gravel. In partnerships with USA Cycling, the Sea Otter Gravel Race is now part of the Junior Gravel National Series, a five-race series aimed at junior riders aged between 15-18 to create a new pathway for aspiring athletes to gain valuable race experience.

More pertinently for the trade, the Expo, home to over 1,000 brands is being pitched as a gateway to the cutting edge of gravel cycling, with the latest gear, innovative tech, gravel-based workshops, demos and activations.

In a recent issue of CIN, we dissected the bike sector mix of bike types over the past five-plus years in UK bike shops, which has seen gravel steal market share from other bike types. The sector has been a consistently strong area for the market in recent years and Sea Otter Classic’s move will likely bolster confidence further in the gravel sector.

“We’re taking gravel to new heights at the 2025 Sea Otter Classic,” said Jeff Frost, Race Director of the Life Time Sea Otter Classic. “Whether you’re here to race, ride, or connect with other fans and stars of the sport, this year’s gravel events are bigger, better, and more accessible than ever. It’s a can’t-miss opportunity for fans, enthusiasts, and elite athletes alike.”

www.seaotterclassic.com

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