Clubs typically host group rides and offer loads of local know-how. Your LA can answer your questions about how to get involved and can even recommend area cycling clubs for you to contact. They have the ins and outs of everything bike racing in your area. If you’re interested in the nitty-gritty, or learn better with hands-on experience, consider reaching out to your USA Cycling Local Association (LA). Once you know what type of riding you're most interested in, you should. Check out the various racing disciplines below to learn about the types of races, and basic pointers to get you started. Remember that you’re not limited to the types of riding at which you’re most skilled! Racing is meant to broaden your horizons and realize your potential.

Each type of bike has a multitude of sports – road bikes alone have criteriums, road races, time trials, hills climbs, and more. Identify the type of race or event you want to doĬonsider what type of riding you like to do, or what you want to try. So what do you say? Are you all in? If so, you’ll want to: 1. Check each event flyer or website for more information, regardless of the event type. Sometimes multiple categories toe the line together but are ranked separately. At USA Cycling races, riders typically start at the beginner level (category 5) and work their way up the ranks with upgrade points. Typically these rides are mass start (everyone takes off together), or are divided by age group.įondos and fun rides are a bit different than racing in pacing, route, and organization. If you’re looking to take your riding to the next level, but aren’t quite ready to put it all out on the line, consider searching the event calendar for gran fondos or fun rides.

How to become a professional road racer