Introducing the Gravelstoke Ally Program
When I started Gravelstoke in 2018, the idea was simple: create fun and welcoming gravel rides in North County San Diego. I began with weekly rides and a community quickly formed around the effort. The growth was rapid and the opportunities felt endless. Over the years, Gravelstoke evolved with more rides, bigger events, and connections across the bike industry that I never could have imagined.
More than eight years in, we've hosted over 100 rides with thousands of riders joining us on the trail. Our reach has extended far beyond those in-person experiences through the newsletter, social media, and website. Our content inspires adventures across Southern California and beyond. Seeing this growth and being part of gravel cycling’s emergence has been incredibly rewarding.
As we look ahead to 2026 and the years that follow, we're taking a strategic step to ensure Gravelstoke can continue delivering what our community values most: monthly rides, authentic storytelling, trusted gear coverage, and experiences that challenge and inspire. That future is built on partnership with brands who share our values and believe in what we're building together.
We’re calling it the Gravelstoke Ally Program…
Why an Ally Program?
Creating quality experiences and content takes real resources. Route design, photography, writing, event coordination, website management, and community engagement all require time and energy. We've always operated lean and independent, but to sustain and grow what we've built, we need support from brands who understand the value of authentic community connection. We intentionally partner with companies that align with our ethos and support grassroots experiences. In most cases, these are brands we've worked with for years and would recommend regardless of any partnership.
What This Means for our community
Anticipate of what you've come to expect from Gravelstoke, with an added layer of consistency. Having the support of our Allies allows us to plan a full ride calendar for the year and maintain regular newsletter communications to keep you informed and ready for the next adventure. Most rides will remain free and self-supported. The Great Western Reroute continues as our signature event and biggest adventure of the year, while staying small enough to deliver an exceptional experience for everyone involved.
Building Something Sustainable
This year we're working with seven exceptional brands as part of the Ally program. You may have already noticed their logos on our website footer and event pages. Two of those partners, Kenda Tire and Bonnici Law Group, have stepped up at the highest support level with deeper integration into our ride series and wider visibility across platforms. You'll see upcoming content featuring their products and services, along with valuable resources and exclusive discounts for our community. Kenda and BLG logos will also be included in our Spring Kit Collection, now available for PREORDER.
The Road Ahead
Our full 2026 ride schedule is live on the events page, with monthly adventures planned through the end of the year. Each ride represents an opportunity to explore new routes, connect with the community, and experience what makes gravel cycling in Southern California so special.
The Ally program represents Gravelstoke's commitment to doing this work sustainably and strategically. We're building for the long term, ensuring that the rides, routes, and stories you count on can continue for years to come. We're grateful to the brands stepping up to support this vision, and we're excited to share what we create together.
Check out our Allies and learn more about the brands supporting Gravelstoke in 2026. Hope to see you out there! -Dave M
Gravelstoke Allies
Gravelstoke Events
spring collection
Shop the entire Gravelstoke x Voler spring kit Pre-order here. The Endurance Air pieces and Velocity Air jerseys both carry logos from two of our 2026 Allies, Kenda Tire and Bonnici Law Group, on the rear. A simple way to rep the brands supporting our community.
A closer look at the new Gravelstoke Ally Program, new partners and monthly rides in Southern California.