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When the term "cycling" comes to mind, many people immediately think of road cycling, which is often seen as the purest form of the sport. It’s easy to see why road cycling has millions of enthusiasts. Whether it’s the breathtaking speeds, the toughest climbs, or the vast distances covered, road cycling challenges you to push your limits. For those who rise to the challenge, the next step is often to transform themselves into racing machines by logging hundreds of miles each week and eventually competing in races. Road racing offers the thrill of testing your boundaries in a sport you love while surrounding yourself with like-minded athletes. For most, it becomes a significant part of their lives, and a select few even turn it into a career.
If you’re curious about how road racing got its start, it’s worth noting that it originated in Europe in the mid-1800s and remains incredibly popular today. Major races like the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España are European staples, drawing millions of spectators annually. Road racing also became a highlight of the Summer Olympics in the late 1800s and continues to be a major event every four years. Professional athletes often structure their seasons around qualifying for and competing in the Olympics, with hopes of representing their countries.
The first World Championships were held in Germany in 1921 under the supervision of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), which was established two decades earlier. The UCI still governs cycle racing at the highest level, overseeing not only road racing but also disciplines like cross-country mountain biking, enduro, and downhill. For nearly 150 years, the tradition of road racing has endured, not only with the global popularity of the Tour de France but also with the diverse range of road races available today. Don’t let the complexity of multi-stage races like the Tour de France intimidate you. There are many formats, and you’re bound to find one that suits your preferences.
There are several types of road racing, each offering something unique. Road races, the most common and traditional form, typically take place on public roads and can vary greatly in distance, terrain, and difficulty. These races can be point-to-point or involve multiple laps on a circuit. Road races can range from one-day events to multi-stage races spanning days or weeks. Races often begin with a mass start involving over 100 racers, and teams work collaboratively to support their leader. Teams may designate a leader based on fitness levels, terrain, or competition, and teammates support this leader by shielding them from the wind and even lending their bikes in case of mechanical issues.
Criteriums, or "crits," are another popular format, especially in the U.S. These are short, fast-paced races held on closed circuits, often in urban areas. Typical crit courses are 0.5 to 3 miles long, featuring tight turns and straightaways. Racers need sharp bike-handling skills and the ability to produce massive power to accelerate out of corners. Crits last from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, covering between 25 to 60 miles at average speeds of up to 30 mph. Primes, or intermediate sprints, add excitement, with prizes awarded to the fastest lap winners. The race ends with a bell signaling the final laps, intensifying the competition as teams fight for the best positions.
Time trials are the most individualistic form of road racing, where each racer competes against the clock. Starting a minute apart, riders aim to complete the course in the shortest time possible. Unlike road races, time trials lack the team element, requiring racers to rely solely on their skills and equipment, earning the nickname “honest race.†Riders focus on using the lightest and most advanced bikes, helmets, and suits to maximize efficiency. At the amateur level, Merckx-style time trials are popular, where riders race on standard road bikes without aerodynamic enhancements.
Team time trials (TTT) are similar to individual time trials but involve teams racing against the clock. The overall time is determined by the last rider to cross the finish line. Teams use techniques like rotating pacelines to maintain speed and aerodynamic advantage. Each rider takes turns leading the group, allowing teammates to recover behind. Challenges like side winds require teams to adapt their formation to maintain aerodynamic efficiency.
Stage races, like the Tour de France, are perhaps the most well-known form of road racing. These races span several days or weeks, with each day considered a “stage.†The Tour de France, for instance, is a 21-day race held every July. Stage races often include various terrains, such as flat stages, mountain stages, time trials, and occasionally TTTs. Each stage is timed, and the overall winner is the racer with the lowest cumulative time. Due to the commitment required, stage races are less common than criteriums and single-day races, so aspiring racers often have to travel to participate. Popular amateur stage races in the U.S. include the Valley of the Sun (AZ), Tucson Bicycle Classic (AZ), Chico Stage Race (CA), Tour of the Gila (NM), and Tour de Bloom (WA).
Hill climbs are one of the most demanding disciplines in road racing. Individual racers compete to be the fastest up steep climbs. Tackling a 10-plus mile climb at a steep grade demands immense endurance and mental toughness. The Cycle to the Summit in Colorado Springs, CO, is a popular race, featuring a 12.5-mile climb gaining over 4,800 feet in elevation. Races like this are further complicated by altitude, with oxygen levels at the summit being 40% less than at sea level.
Gran Fondos offer a great entry point for newcomers. Translating to "big ride" in Italian, Gran Fondos combine aspects of road racing but are more recreational. They are timed but emphasize personal achievement and enjoyment over fierce competition. Participants race on marked courses over long distances, often with challenging climbs and stunning views. Levi's Gran Fondo in Santa Rosa, CA, offers routes catering to various skill levels, from short courses to the 120-mile "gran" route featuring 10,345 feet of elevation gain.
To participate in races, riders often categorize themselves based on gender, skill level, or age. Categories range from Novice to Elite, with upgrades possible through USA Cycling guidelines. Racing in a lower category despite higher skill is frowned upon and termed "sandbagging."
A road bike is essential for racing. Modern road bikes typically have two chainrings in the front and an 11-28-tooth cassette in the rear, allowing for a wide gear range. Budget aluminum bikes, like the Cannondale CAAD or Specialized Allez, offer excellent value and performance.
Building bike handling skills is crucial for novices. Practicing skills like riding in a straight line, cornering at speed, and emergency braking can significantly enhance safety and performance. Group rides are invaluable for learning and improving. Beginner rides, typically categorized as C/D, are ideal for newcomers, focusing on building endurance and basic skills.
Joining a cycling club or team offers access to coaches, structured training plans, and opportunities to train with skilled cyclists. Clubs often host workshops and provide discounts on gear. Understanding race rules and preparing mentally and physically are vital for success. Start with local races to gain experience and progress gradually. Remember, road racing is a hobby meant to be enjoyed, so take breaks when needed.
Lastly, consider specialized insurance for racing. Velosurance offers coverage tailored for competitive cyclists, protecting against the highest-risk scenarios. Their policies also include optional medical payments coverage, filling gaps in health insurance. With Velosurance, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re fully covered.