How to Bike Competitively

Biking for competition is a way to get in shape and make new friends with a common interest. For many, it seems overwhelming, from picking the race to knowing what to do. However, when you are prepared, bicycle competitions add excitement to the cycling sport.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Become a member of a cycling club. Go to USA Cycling's website to search by city, or simply go to a local bike shop.
2. Choose a race from a cycling race calendar. These can also be found online, or through a local bike shop or cycling club.
3. Find other cyclists to race in the event. Racing buddies can act as a support group. First time racers often back out because of nervousness.
4. Prepare everything that is needed and pack the night before. This includes a helmet, race registration and water bottles, as well as post-race items, such as dry clothes.
5. Arrive to the race site early. Since most races begin in the morning, eat a carbohydrate-only breakfast at least 2 hours before racing. Get race-ready: attach numbers to your jersey and bike, and fill up your water bottles. Also make a trip to the bathroom.
6. Warm-up by cycling. Analyze the portions of the course closeby and look for potholes, gravel in the road or other things that can slow down your bike or take you off-guard. Make sure the bike is in the gear desired for starting the race.
7. Line up at the start when it's time. Remember that most of the people you are competing against doesn't feel ready either. Don't let this race be the last one. Competitions get easier with time and experience.