Here at the Barrs we've racked up a fair number of years racing experience between us so we do know a thing or two about preparing for a race (all of us having learnt from mistakes not worth making again!). As the CX season is upon us here is our brief guide on how to prepare yourself for your first race (we'll be brining you a road version of this closer to that season!).
BIKE (S): Simple one this but only if you know what to check. Make sure your bike is in full working order. Gears, bearings and brakes need to be checked regularly and replaced/regreased when necessary. Your bike (or if your lucky enough to have a spare, bikes) should be SPOTLESS before the start of the race. A clean bike is a fast bike! You've paid the entry, done the training, you may as well look the part with a clean bike. (Our Tip: Wash your bike as soon as possible after a training ride/race. You will automatically check all moving parts and re-grease as necessary. Check brakes, wheels, and tyres also- a problem on Monday can be solved by the race on Sunday!) Clothing: You are a cyclist and therefore you are almost a qualified meteorologist. Pay attention to the forecast a few days from the event as this will allow you to prepare what you need. Will you need a full change of kit between your warm up and the race? Will you need to do most of your warm up on a turbo? (If it's super mucky or wet? What will you need to wear in the race? (Caps, gloves etc.) By packing these the in the days before a race, you will be more relaxed on the morning of the race. Finally SHOES and HELMET. Forget these and you may as well as forgotten to bring your bike. (I was once at a race when a competitor forgot their entire gear bag- he was lucky he had good friends with spare kit) Equipment/Spares: Depending on your level, and the commitment you have made to the 'cross season this will change. A spare bike is the ultimate but it is certainly not a necessity! A spare wheelset with matching tyres to your race wheels is very helpful. A puncture late in the warm up shouldn't mean the end of your race. Spare tubes, tyre levers, allen key set, and a track pump are not only important, but essential- don't be that person who has to ask for a pump or a tube week in week out (you'll get away with it once!). As you race CX and get bitten by the bug, you can make further investment to improve your racing experiences. The best investment (apart from a bike) is purchasing a couple of different tyre options. An intermediate tread pattern for dryish, not too muddy conditions, and a mud specific tyre (particularly from November onwards). If you are using clinchers, it's really easy to change your tyres the day before the race, based on the forecast or your knowledge of the course. Your LBS will guide you through the options that suit your needs and your budget. (Check out McCarthy Cycles if you are around Cork City!). If you think we have missed anything then put your suggestion in the comments below! REMINDER: Click on the button below to enter for CrossBarrs at Fota!
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St.Finbarrs Cycling ClubEst. 1938 Archives
October 2017
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