While bike racing for beginners may seem intimidating, it's an excellent way to push your riding to the next level, improve your skills and increase your fitness, particularly if you have a competitive nature.
For many a cyclist, racing is the ultimate exhilaration. It's also one of the best ways to measure yourself against others says Rochelle Gilmore, owner of the Wiggle-Honda pro cycling team.
“There’s just nothing like the feeling of ticking a box of achievement you’ve set for yourself," she tells BikeRadar. You can, of course, do that by setting goals that don’t involve racing but it’s so satisfying to see your development against other people. It’s natural to want to be better every week and I think once you get through your first and second race it becomes addictive.â€
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Usually, before you can pin on a number and head to the start line, you’ll need a racing license. These are available from your national cycling governing body, and membership will typically also provide insurance cover. In the UK, the governing body is British Cycling; in the US it’s USA Cycling and in Australia it’s Cycling Australia.
You’ll also need to decide whether you want to ride in crit or open road races. Crits, short for criterium races, take place over multiple laps, are held on closed roads or purpose-built cycle tracks and usually last around an hour. Road races are generally over longer distances with more varied terrain and gradients. There are also time trial events, which take place over different distances and can be individual events (ITT) or team events (TTT).
To find an event, ask members of your local club about races they recommend. Events are also listed online, on sites such as the British Cycling event calendar, which will also often allow online entry.
Training for road racing
Essential skills for road racing
Essential equipment for road racing
Overcome fear
First race advice
Racing tactics and experience
Learn, enjoy and go again
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
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