Starting Line

bikerbaby · 03-06-2008, 04:51 AM

I wasn't planning on getting into racing, since I'm still at the very beginning of my XC biking hobbie...but I can't resist asking about it.

When did you know you were really ready to take on training for a race? (regardless of what kind of race you're doing, I'd like to hear about all kinds) What kind of race did you do and how did you do at the finish line?

CycleBabe · 03-06-2008, 03:51 PM

Here's something I really really want to do! I'm thinking I might try road racing to start.
That's where I do most of my riding anyway. A fast light bike and I'm good for starting. I am a bit of a baby so I'll pick a comfortable one to start and probably buy a more serious bike later for the actual winning.

Did you have any particular type of race in mind?

doug · 03-06-2008, 06:12 PM

my 1st race was an XC, and I didnt train for it - just showed up and entered beginner class. It hurt but was insanely fun, I finished and was not last! Hanging out after the races is also really fun, well unless you do a roadie race - those guys are no fun, and pack up head out as soon as they cross the finish line.

bikerbaby · 03-07-2008, 12:58 AM

"Roadie" race? You mean the road races? Why are they not as much fun as a XC race?

How long had you been biking before you joined a race?

doug · 03-07-2008, 12:32 PM

yes road race. In my experience, its the people - roadies are more serious, less friendly, and instead of having a beer, sharing some stories & a laugh after the race - they pack up & take off before the slower riders even finish. At XC races everyone is more friendly, helpful & just more fun.
Also XC has a true beginner class (some even have a 1st timer race) where as in a road race a beginner racers only choice is CAT5 (or CAT4 for females) and those catagories will include some very fast roadies. A friend of mine is crazy fast and races semi-pro XC, and due to the road race rules he had to race in their "easiest/beginner" catagory (CAT5).

I'd guess since I was 4 I've always owned at least one bike, so for me it was 25 years of riding before I did my 1st race!

XC races are great, a good way to make friends, a good way to see the techniques of strong riders, and a great way to become a better rider. So go race! or least go to one and watch, or even better go to one & volunteer/help out.

bikerbaby · 03-08-2008, 03:27 AM

That sounds like great fun. Thanks for all that information.

I think volunteering would be very good idea, then I can learn the ins and outs of the race, etc and meet some people. Maybe find someone who wants to brave the back woods with me. lol

CycleBabe · 03-09-2008, 05:53 PM

I want to road race, and I'll totally stop and have a beer! Maybe it's just physically less demanding? I'm sure they'd disagree haahaha. But XC you're going across different terrains and having to change methods. It's going to demand more down time to recover. So kicking it with a beer right after is probably more appealing to them.