The Life Time Grand Prix has unveiled a new performance-driven qualification format and a seven-race calendar for the 2027 season, returning The Rad Dirt Fest to the off-road series, according to announcements from Life Time and Bicycle Retailer on August 12, 2026. Under the updated rules, the top 10 women, top 10 men, and top U23 riders from the 2026 standings will earn automatic invitations, while remaining roster spots will be decided at the Sea Otter Classic.
A Performance-Driven Shift for 2027 Selection
Life Time is overhauling its athlete selection process to create a clearer, earlier pathway for competitors. According to Life Time President of Events and Media Kimo Seymour, the goal is to identify the best all-around off-road racers across gravel and mountain bike events while providing athletes with greater certainty for seasonal planning and partnerships.
For the 2027 season, automatic selection expands significantly. According to source reports, the top 10 men and top 10 women from the 2026 final standings will automatically qualify, alongside the top-performing U23 woman and man. This marks a shift from the 2025 and 2026 criteria, which only granted automatic entry to the top five overall riders and the top U23 competitor, relying more heavily on discretionary wild cards.
The Sea Otter Grand Prix Qualifier
The remaining 14 spots for both the men’s and women’s fields will be decided entirely during the Life Time Sea Otter Classic weekend in mid-April. According to Life Time’s announcement, eligible Pro category riders must compete in two specific events: the Life Time Sea Otter Classic Gravel on Thursday and the Life Time Sea Otter Classic Fuego XL on Saturday. Points earned during the Thursday gravel race will also count toward an athlete’s overall Grand Prix score once qualification is secured. Full scoring systems and tie-breaking procedures are slated for release ahead of the season.
Pro Tip: Aspiring Pro category athletes must note a new vetting procedure introduced by Life Time. Beginning in September, riders must formally apply for access to race in the Pro field at Life Time events for the upcoming year.
The Seven-Race 2027 Calendar and Rad Dirt Fest Return
The 2027 championship returns to a seven-race schedule, up from the six-event series held over the past three years following the wildfire-related cancellation of Crusher in the Tushar. According to Cyclingnews and Bicycle Retailer, the September event in Trinidad, Colorado will rejoin the lineup after last being included in 2024.
“Following conversations with our athletes, it was clear The Rad remained a favorite because of the course and the kind of racing it creates,” Seymour told Bicycle Retailer. “As we looked at returning the Grand Prix to seven events, bringing The Rad back into the championship was a natural fit.”
2027 Life Time Grand Prix Schedule
- Life Time Sea Otter Classic Gravel
- Life Time UNBOUND Gravel 200 presented by Shimano
- Life Time Leadville Trail 100 MTB presented by Kenetik
- Life Time Chequamegon Mountain Bike Festival
- Life Time Rad Dirt Fest
- Life Time Little Sugar MTB
- Life Time Big Sugar Gravel presented by Kenetik
To remain compliant with series rules, participating riders must start a minimum of six out of the seven events, with their six best finishes counting toward their final standing.
Did You Know? The Rad Dirt Fest takes competitors through the rugged Spanish Peaks of Trinidad, Colorado, making it the fifth round of the expanded seven-stop 2027 championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many athletes compete in the Life Time Grand Prix?
The series features 25 women and 25 men competing across gravel and mountain bike events.
How do riders qualify for the 2027 series?
The remaining 14 spots for each field are determined by results at the Sea Otter Classic Gravel and Fuego XL races.
How many races must athletes start in 2027?
According to series requirements, riders must start a minimum of six of the seven scheduled events.
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