You have a bike, but now you want to actually race it. What should you do? Do you need a license? Should you join a team or a club?
Training
Bike racing involves fitness and technical skills to master. Riding with groups helps both aspects. Learning the proper bike racing etiquette of pacelines, drafting and pack riding is important when you enter your first race. Riding with a group also helps get your fitness to the right levels. If you want an extra edge you can hire a coach to devise a proper training plan.
Bikes
You don’t need a high-end road bike to get started. Though you should make sure your bike in properly adjusted, in working condition and fits you well. Most bike shops offer fitting services. It is highly recommended that you schedule a session so that you feel comfortable on your bike. Once you win a race or two you can use your race winnings to get that sweet new racing bike.
License
USA Cycling will get you started in licensed racing. A one year license will cost $60. Men wil start at Cat 5 and women will start at Cat 4. You don’t need a license for all races. Citizens races such as the Owasco Flyer and Tour de Loop are extremely popular and a fun way to get into racing.
Come back for more info as we develop this section further. Checkout some references for more info on getting started with bike racing.
References:
Bike Racing 101: Your First Race
Bike Racing FAQs to get you started
Funny and sarcastic pointers on starting bike racing (do the opposite of what is said here)