Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Q: What is the date of the event?
The event takes place on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Q: What is the exact location of the event?
Start and finish are in downtown Fruita, Colorado. The central hub is Civic Center Park (Peach St & Ottley Ave), Fruit a, CO.
Q: What distances are available?
30 miles (Fruitadens) (including e-bikes)
50 miles (Pterodactyl) (including e-bikes)
75 miles (Stegosaurus)
100 miles (Triceratops)
125 miles (Utahraptor)
All distances are approximate and subject to minor adjustments as course finalisation occurs.
Q: I don’t own a gravel‑specific bike. Can I still ride?
Absolutely. A gravel bike is ideal. A hardtail mountain bike will also work (no big rock gardens, no single‑track). For top comfort and float in the sand, we recommend tires around 45‑55 mm. (Based on past CO2UT terrain)
Q: Are e‑bikes permitted?
E‑bikes are permitted on the shorter distances (30, 50) but not permitted on the 75-mile, 100‑mile or 125‑mile distances.
Q: Where should I park / camp for the event?
On‑site camping will be available at Old Fruita Middle School (Peach St & Ottley Ave) for riders and crews.
Parking (non‑camping) will be designated in nearby lots—details to follow.
Q: What about smoke or poor air quality due to wildfire?
In the event of significant smoke or wildfire conditions, we will monitor the U.S. EPA Air Quality Index (AQI). If AQI rises above safe thresholds at the time of the start, we reserve the right to modify or cancel the course. Safety always comes first.
Registration & Entry Questions
Q: Where can I register for the event?
Online registration opens Dec. 8 at 9am. Click the “Register” button at the top of the website.
Q: What’s the cancellation/refund policy?
No refunds will be issued by TransRockies Inc under any circumstances.
Transfers to another participant are permitted until midnight on April 18, 2026, with a $25 admin fee.
Deferrals:
On or before March 20, 2026 → 75% of your entry will be deferred
March 21 – April 1, 2026 → 50% deferred
After April 1 → No deferral
Full deferral allowed for pregnancy or active military duty with documentation.
Optional insurance through Protecht is available—read the policy before purchasing.
Q: Can I change the distance I’m registered for?
Yes. If you want to move to a longer distance, you’ll pay the difference. If you move to a shorter one, no refund is given—just a straight switch. Requests must be received before April 18, 2026.
Please email info@transrockies.com to make the change.
Q: How many riders are there?
Maximum number of riders for 2026 is 750 across all distances.
Course & Ride Questions
Q: How hard is the event?
The honest answer: it’s as hard as you make it. We’ve built five distances so you can pick your level of adventure. The terrain features short, sharp climbs, unexpected sand, changing surfaces, and wide‑open desert vistas—so choose wisely.
Q: What kind of road surface and terrain should I expect?
Our courses are gravel and hard‑pack dirt, not single‑track or rock gardens. Rough breakdown:
~70% hard‑pack dirt with fine gravel (occasional sand)
~15‑20% narrower hard‑pack/jeep‑style roads
~5% true gravel roads
Minimal paved/modern asphalt (primarily first & last miles)
You will ride across wide expanses, remote terrain, and some unexpected sand traps.
Q: Are the roads closed for the event?
No. All roads remain open to traffic. You must ride on the right‑hand side where applicable, follow traffic laws, and stay alert.
Q: Will the course be marked and how do I navigate?
Yes – Major turns and departure points will be signed. Downloadable GPX files will be provided ahead of the event. GPS units are strongly recommended.
Q: Where are the aid stations and what’s provided?
Aid stations spaced roughly every 15‑20 miles. Stocked with water, hydration drink, snacks, energy chews. Some are crew accessible—these are the only places external support is permitted.
Missing Information: Drop‑bag policy for longer distances.???
Q: What if I’m having a tough day and want to drop down a distance mid‑race?
Yes: for certain routes we allow downgrades at designated points. If possible, Riders should let the nearest Aid Station crew know so that they can let the Race Organizers know. Otherwise, Riders must check in with timing tent immediately after finishing to update distance.
Post‑Ride & Experience Questions
Q: What’s included in my entry (swag, finish, etc)?
Every rider receives a high‑quality event tee. Riders in the 30, 50, 75, 100 or 125‑mile distances also get a special finisher award. Post‑race lunch is included; guests and family may purchase additional meal tickets in advance.
Q: Can my friends or family join me for lunch or spectate?
Yes. Family and crew may purchase extra lunch tickets in advance (no later than April 18, 2026). Spectators are encouraged—come enjoy the finish‑line vibe!
Q: What happens after I finish—awards, ceremony?
Awards will be presented on site after completion of each distance. Top‑3 in each category will be recognised.
Q: Where can I find official results?
Results will be published online at the race’s official timing partner site, Zone4.ca
Technical / Equipment Questions
Q: What bike should I ride?
Gravel bikes are ideal. Mountain bikes (preferably hardtails) are fine for the shorter distances. No rock gardens or single‑track, so suspension is optional. For long courses and potential sand: wide tires (45‑55 mm) provide better comfort and float.
Q: Can I bring a crew or support on the course?
Crew and outside support is only permitted at designated crew‑accessible aid stations. Any other outside assistance (outside rider to rider) may result in disqualification.
Q: What safety measures are in place?
Course sweepers monitor the final riders and may transport riders/bikes if needed.
Emergency procedures: If you have a serious issue, call 911 and alert course/timing staff.
Weather, fire and air‑quality contingencies may force modifications or cancellation (see “General Questions” above).