If you look at the basic numbers comparison between Jasper Stuyven’s worlds performance and Keegan’s SBT, I’d argue they’re within any reasonable altitude adjustment. Jasper’s NP w/kg for the last 4 hours is superior, but the worlds course was obviously surgy. Not suggesting this comparison is absolute and that Keegan could do the necessary selection efforts, but his power appears to be world class.
Plus he said this week on TR interview his ftp is around 400 and Remco said on LRCP interview he did 400-410 for 55’ TT (Keegan is about 2.5 kg heavier based on published weights).
Yeah, SBT quickly went from popular and small(not really that small) affordable event to basically UnBound level. Judging by all the motos and race coverage provided, prices will probably only go up to help provide that coverage. It’s a fun weekend. I’ve worked the expo in the past with a former employer and the town overall is rad. Bummed to miss this year. The Hill Climb looked hilarious. Hoping to get back there for the 100 next year.
There are some great events out there like @Power13 said - just have to scour BikeReg and HeidiRidesBikes calendar.
They seem pretty focused on growth, with Europe playing a central role (whether this is the best strategy is a valid question).
We talked to Micah a fair amount in Finland and they want to move the Portugal event from a tour to a race, probably in 2025.
Didn’t mention any additional US events, however.
But I think they have a brand (GRVL) that can applied to any event they wish to put on……but they will need to find US locations that match the desirability of their other locations.
My guess their biggest challenge is going to be balancing rising overhead costs vs. a somewhat fixed revenue stream. The number of riders is pretty fixed, so this limits income. Increased sponsorships will help in this regard.