Jump to content

First race advice for Newbies


JohannM

Recommended Posts

So as many or even all we have to start somewhere

 

I have entered the Lost city classics (Sun city) race and it will be my first race.

 

Training in the cradle I have learned alot of tips on cycling, but I'm sure when it comes to races it is all different

 

How ever maybe the more frequent cyclest out there can share some tips for Newbie first time racers to just calm those nerves down a bit 

 

What to expect?

What to do?

What NOT to do....

 

Thanks all

 

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

What to expect? Lots of bikes, Lots of people, Lots of Fun

What to do? Have Fun, be courteous, keep left

What not to do? Don't try and win... Just have fun

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Have a good nights rest.

Check your bike 2 - 3 days before.

Pump up wheels the morning. 

Come prepared (food and spares)

Keep to the left. 

Enjoy!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The race is fast and flat. Don't be caught out by the front runners of the groups that start at 50km/h. Join up with a bunch that suits your speed otherwise it will catch up with you later in the race when the legs become jelly. It's your first race, so ride to enjoy it.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

During the race don't be put off by the number of riders in bunches, if you riding 1st time and going for a good time I suggest try stay with the group you start with but don't sweat it if you find the pace a bit fast, drop off and catch the next group. 

 

But most of all enjoy. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

not sure how long the race is but take it easy for the first  60-70% of the race distance, and if you have gas in the tank then put the foot down for the rest. Then you know where you stand. You don't want to blow your engine first up, you might end up having a looooong ride.

 

or blow up first time and have a lekker laugh afterwards, either way enjoy

Link to comment
Share on other sites

What to expect? lots of fun. be careful of the trucks, especially on the stretch to Rustenburg. the last 10kms is a breeze  :clap: 


What to do? keep left  :whistling: 


What NOT to do.... hhmmmm....Quit


Link to comment
Share on other sites

Firstly, I hope you done some club rides to get used to riding in a bunch.

NEVER overlap your front wheel with the rider in front of you.

Don't forget your timing chip, put it on the night before.

Pace yourself but try your best to stick with a bunch, the energy saved will more than make up for the extra effort required here and there not to get dropped.

 

HAVE FUN!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Best advice I got before my first race - which I didnt listen to and learned the lesson the hard way - dont chase a group if you get dropped otherwise you'll burn up like a cheap cracker. Rather carry on riding at your pace, or sit up and wait for a group to catch you.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Don't do anything different on race day than what you would normally do.. keep yourself and bike setup the same as when you  train... many a person has been caught out by changing on a race day..

 

Most important part is to enjoy it, so that you will come back for the next one.

 

Have fun and good luck!!!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

If you in front you decide the line....don't let some wannabe shout....."hold your line"...????????????????????????

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Prep your bike the night before.

 

Pack your gear the night before.

 

Get to bed early the night before.

 

Eat a good breakfast on the day.

 

If it's your first race, just take in the experience and do what feels comfortable at the time.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Settings My Forum Content My Followed Content Forum Settings Ad Messages My Ads My Favourites My Saved Alerts My Pay Deals Help Logout