You hit the forest trails every weekend or maybe enjoy exploring the local countryside by road. Now you want to dip your toe into racing and you’re wondering how to make the step. Well, we’re here for you at Activ Cycles. Read on for our advice on how to get started with road, cyclocross and cross country racing.
Upgrade your bike for racing
Harder riding requires higher performance gear. There are endless possibilities when it comes to upgrading your bike but as a sensible and lower cost first step while you find out if racing is for you, wheels and tyres are a good place to start. Higher end tyres meant for racing, like Continental Grand Prix 5000S or Pirelli P Zero TLR, offer lower rolling resistance to get you riding faster, and give you better grip to give you more confidence when you’re really pushing through corners.
Aero wheels are another great way to eke out some extra speed. Shallower wheels like Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35 TLR are good for climbing and windier days, while deeper section options like Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 provide more of an aero advantage in better weather.
On the XC or cyclocross bike, consider tyres for different conditions to give you the edge. Shallow centre treads will roll faster in the dry but when things get greasy and muddy you’ll need deeper tread to find the grip.
For time trial and triathlon, position and aero are everything, and can save you minutes over the course of a race. A great way to start out is by fitting your road bike with some handlebar extensions such as the Pro Missile Clip-On to get a more aero body position. Upgrades like a solid disc rear wheel such as a Zipp Super-9 or a skin suit will save you big chunks of time, and from there you’ll be chasing every extra Watt!
Treat yourself to some race kit
Race apparel is tighter fitting to reduce drag. We think Rapha’s Pro Team range is great option – take a look at these Rapha Pro Team Bib Shorts. There’s also aero helmets, including the Kask Utopia WG11 and Bontrager’s XXX WaveCel, aswell as aero socks, shoe covers and arm sleeves to make you as slippery as possible.
Prepare yourself and your bike
The decision on fitness level is a personal one. If you feel like you’re ready to have a go at competitive riding, we say go for it; don’t worry about where you place and just try to soak up the experience and enjoy it.
Race nutrition is a whole topic on its own, but try to eat well the night before and on the morning of your race and stock up on energy gels and bars to keep fuelled during big efforts. Hydration is a huge part of success. Don’t forget to drink, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and consider adding isotonic or carbohydrate supplements to help stay properly fuelled.
As far as your bike is concerned, some basic preparation is worthwhile. Make sure it’s clean, safe and in good working order. Check for damage and inspect the gears, brakes, chain and tyre pressure. If you’d like our mechanics to do this for you, please book a slot with our workshop.
Get a race licence
This sounds more serious than it actually is. Becoming a member of British Cycling enables you to enter races, record your positions and points, and also offers insurance for you and your bike. Find out more on the British Cycling website.
Bike races near me
There’s a thriving racing scene in the South and South East, with plenty of racing opportunities to choose from across road, cyclocross and MTB. Here’s a selection of them, with 2024 fixtures yet to go up in most cases.
Cross country
Gorrick: Mountain bike cross country races all year round.
Southern XC: An annual British Cycling regional XC series.
Boars on Bikes: XC racing organised by Bedgebury Forest Cycling Club.
Beastway MTB: MTB racing on the north-eastern outskirts of London.
Road racing and time trial
Ashford Wheelers: Evening time trials across spring and summer.
Thanet Road Club: Open and club time trials from March onwards.
San Fairy Ann Cycling Club: A nice variety of cycling events, from the serious to the social.
Deal Tri: Triathlon and similar events at various distances
Ashford Tri Club: Running, swimming and cycling events
Cyclocross
London & South East Cyclo-Cross League: Weekly competitions from September
East Kent Cyclocross: A series of races organised by VC Deal (shown in main picture, courtesy of VC Deal).
If you’d like help and advice on bike upgrades, maintenance and clothing, come and see our team in store in Ashford and Folkestone, and we’ll be very happy to help.
