In the heart of Southern California’s thriving gravel cycling scene, Gravelstoke is attracting a growing community of off-road enthusiasts with unique rides built around innovative routes that even locals are surprised to discover. Founded in 2018 by cycling enthusiast Dave Malwitz, this community is evolving into a growing force for exploration, creativity, and connection to the outdoors in the world of gravel riding.

What started as a simple idea quickly gained momentum. “I wanted to create a welcoming, fun, and fresh brand that was 100% dedicated to gravel cycling,” Malwitz says. With a strong visual identity and a deep commitment to community, Gravelstoke became more than a cycling group—it became a movement.

More Than Just Rides

Gravelstoke isn’t your typical club. With no fixed ride schedule, they host a series of thoughtfully crafted gravel rides and events throughout the year, mostly centered in San Diego and Southern California. Each route is a blend of road, gravel, and singletrack—tailored for moderate to experienced riders looking for adventure.

“We make no compromises on excellence in route creation while remaining responsible and respectful to other trail users,” Malwitz emphasizes. That commitment to quality has led to the success of their signature event, The Great Western Reroute, which returns on May 17, 2025.

Rooted in Endurance and Exploration

Malwitz’s love for endurance began far from the bike. “My love for endurance and exploration began as a child traveling to Vermont with my family during winters to ski,” he shares. That early passion for navigating trails and discovering hidden paths translated seamlessly into cycling when he picked up his first mountain bike in 1998. “As my fitness improved, I ventured deeper into the woods, always driven to explore places fully and enjoying the process of studying trail maps to create my own routes.”

Today, tools like Ride with GPS and Strava’s heat maps help fuel that same curiosity, enabling Gravelstoke to deliver some of the most innovative and enjoyable gravel routes in the region.

Creativity That Connects

Beyond the physical rides, Gravelstoke has become a canvas for creativity. What began with designing stickers turned into something bigger. “When I started getting orders from across the US, Europe, and Australia, I knew I was tapping into something real and meaningful,” Malwitz recalls.

Now, Gravelstoke represents more than a ride. It’s a storytelling platform, a content hub, and a cultural touchstone for gravel enthusiasts around the world.

Join the Movement

Malwitz has been surprised by the growth of the community, “Gravelstoke has become an incredible outlet for creativity and connection—sharing wonderful experiences, traveling to unexpected places, and forging new friendships.”

• Follow Gravelstoke on Instagram
• Discover Gravelstoke rides & events on their Website or Strava Club.