Event Overview
Rebecca's Private Idaho (RPI), taking place in September 2026, is more than just a bike race; it is a celebration of the gravel community set against the rugged backdrop of Sun Valley, Idaho. Founded by mountain bike legend Rebecca Rusch, RPI has grown into one of the 'Big Three' gravel events in the United States. The event coincides with Labor Day weekend, turning the town of Ketchum into a cycling mecca.
The vibe is 'Western-Chic' meets high-performance endurance. You'll see riders in cowboy hats at the start line and pro tour riders in aero skinsuits. It’s a race that prioritizes stewardship, adventure, and the 'Be Good' philosophy. With multiple distances—the Tater Tot, the French Fry, and the legendary 102-mile 'Big Beefy'—there is a challenge for every level of rider.
Course Details & Terrain
The 'Big Beefy' course is the standard-bearer. It features over 5,000 feet of climbing, most of which takes place at high altitude (starting at nearly 6,000 feet and climbing much higher).
Trail Creek Summit
The race begins with the legendary Trail Creek climb. It’s a long, steady grind on a wide gravel road. The views from the top are spectacular, but the thin air will make your heart rate skyrocket. The descent is fast and can be 'washboardy'—hold your bars tight.
Copper Basin
This is the soul of RPI. The Copper Basin is a high-alpine plateau surrounded by massive peaks. The terrain here is rolling and exposed. If the wind picks up, this section becomes a tactical battle of drafting and grit. The surface varies from smooth, hard-packed dirt to chunky, loose river rock.
The Finish
The final stretch back into Ketchum is a gradual descent, but after 90 miles of high-altitude gravel, the slight rollers can feel like mountains. The finish line in the heart of town is one of the most festive in all of cycling.
Who Should Enter? (Beginners vs. Experienced)
Beginners
For those new to gravel, the 'French Fry' (approx. 50 miles) offers a perfect introduction. It includes the major climb but avoids the deeper, more remote sections of the Copper Basin. It’s a great way to experience the RPI magic without the 8-hour day in the saddle.
Experienced Athletes
The 'Big Beefy' is a test of attrition. For experienced racers, the challenge is the altitude. If you are coming from sea level, the physiological toll is significant. This race rewards the 'diesel engine'—riders who can maintain a steady, high-power output for hours without going into the red.
Coach Raye's Race-Day Pro Tips
- Altitude Acclimation: If possible, arrive in Ketchum at least 3-4 days before the race. Hydrate aggressively and avoid alcohol. Your body needs time to produce the extra red blood cells required for the thin Idaho air.
- Tire Choice and Pressure: For RPI, a 40mm to 44mm gravel tire with a fast-rolling center tread and side knobs for cornering is ideal. Run tubeless and drop your pressure slightly lower than you think (30-35 PSI depending on rider weight) to handle the washboard sections without losing your fillings.
- Nutrition for the Long Haul: At altitude, your body burns through glycogen faster. Aim for 80-100g of carbohydrates per hour. Use a mix of liquid nutrition and solid 'real' food to prevent stomach upset during the long day.
- The 'Be Good' Mindset: RPI can be brutal. You will likely have a mechanical or a 'dark moment' in the basin. Keep moving, help others if they are in trouble, and remember that the finish line party in Ketchum is worth the struggle.
How to Train for This Event
Gravel racing is about sustained power and technical confidence. Coach Raye builds adaptive training plans that focus on 'Sweet Spot' intervals to build your aerobic engine and specific strength sessions to handle the vibrations of Idaho's backroads. Raye’s WhatsApp-based coaching tracks your fatigue levels, ensuring you arrive at the start line in Sun Valley peaked, not burnt out. Whether you're aiming for a podium or just want to finish the Big Beefy, Raye's custom plans are your ticket to success. Start your Idaho adventure with Raye today.