From the elite roads of the Tour de France to the rugged backcountry trails of Nelson, British Columbia, Svein Tuft’s journey in #PathLessPaved is not one of retirement but of rediscovery.

Svein departs the high octane world of racing and revisits his early roots in two-wheeled exploration. In the process he reconnects with the simplicity of life on the bike, spending time with friends and family and exploring the mountains that he now calls home.

Following a distinguished career in professional road racing, Svein Tuft returns to his roots in British Columbia, rekindling his passion for adventure and the outdoors. Inspired by childhood wanderlust, Tuft seeks a simpler life away from the pressures of high-stakes racing, embracing a new sense of normalcy. From family outings to epic journeys in the Canadian Rockies, Tuft finds inspiration in two-wheeled adventures, navigating the path less traveled.

As a Shimano Gravel bike ambassador, Tuft's cycling journey is as impressive as his professional racing accolades. With a notable career as one of Canada's fastest time trialists, including participation in prestigious races like the Tour de France, Tuft faced challenges in the intense European racing scene. Dreaming of a life beyond the pro peloton, he returned to Canada, yearning for stability and rediscovering the joy of cycling and exploration.

Transitioning from the high-pressure world of professional racing, Tuft found solace in the simplicity of riding local trails and roads, reconnecting with the forests of his youth alongside his kids and dog. This return to the basics reignited the joy he once found in cycling. In his venture called "The Path Less Paved," Tuft embraces the freedom of bikepacking through the scenic landscapes of British Columbia. Riding his gravel bike through backcountry trails, he encounters a perfect blend of singletrack trails, challenging hike-a-bike sections, and breathtaking mountain climbs. These daily explorations keep alive the spirit of the young kid who bought a $40 10-speed bike many years ago.

Client: Shimano

Written, Directed and Produced: Anthill Films

Directors: Mark Johansson, Matt Butterworth

Producer: Thibaut Balcaen

Editor: Mark Johansson

Cinematography: Matt Butterworth, Mark Johansson

Sound: Jonathan Osborne

Colour: Mark Johansson

Graphics: Catkin Pritchard

Photography: Bruno Long

Special thanks: Justine Robidoux, Conor Hurley