Welcome To Cycling!New To Racing? |
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Welcome to the Wisconsin Cycling Association! We're glad you're interested in bike racing and this page contains information to help you get started. Most racing cyclists in Wisconsin belong to a cycling club and there are many in the state. Typically, clubs accept new members in the fall and winter so that new riders have a chance to learn about the club, member responsibilities, racing and equipment. We also maintain a list of clubs in Wisconsin. If you aren't sure about where to start or simply have questions, send your questions to us at board@wicycling.org. Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: I have an old bike, can I use that for racing? A: Most older bikes with proper tuning will suffice for your first year of racing. As you get more comfortable with the sport you may want to upgrade equipment to suit your needs and budget. Club mates can help new members decide what equipment to upgrade, help find used equipment or provide advice on how to shop for a new bike. Q: I'm 16, how do I fit in? A: The United States Cycling Federation, American Bike Race and other cycling organizations have special race categories for juniors. Young riders race with other riders in a similar age bracket. Some larger races have special points series like the Lance Armstrong Junior Olympic Race Series (LAJORS) so aspiring riders can earn their way into training camps based on their performance! Q: How do I learn about race tactics? A: Most riders join a cycling club and learn from others who pass along information to newer riders. Some clubs have coaches and some riders hire their own coach as their cycling goals change. Most newer riders though learn tactics with time, experience, and the advice of other riders. Q: Are there special cycling clubs for women? A: Yes, but even clubs that are mostly male are open to accepting women riders. In some cases women will form their own riding group and invite members of other clubs on rides to help them learn. Q: How much do I have to train? A: Training volume varies by the rider, rider goals, and athletic background (ability). Some recreational racers train on the road 4-6 hours per week and race on the weekend. Serious amateur or elite athletes will train 10-20 hours or more per week while professional cyclists will train over 30 hours per week. There are many different race categories offered so that riders can match their skill and time available to the race that is best suited for them. Q: Do I need a license to race? A: It depends on which organization a particular race is organized under. A WISPORT race does not have a license fee, while races sanctioned by USCF, American Bike Race or similar organizations will require a one-day or annual license. To find out more about each of these organizations, see the links below. Q: What is a "citizen" racer? A: Citizen usually refers to a novice rider or an experienced but not licensed rider. Riders who wish to compete for fun and to learn or guage their progress may find racing with WISPORT to be a terrific place to start among a friendly atmosphere. The race courses are challenging and there are many races in a season--usually every weekend. Q: I'm not sure how to ride in traffic. Are their rules to follow? A: Bicycles are considered a vehicle, just like cars, and must obey the same rules as cars. Wisconsin has a terrific organization called the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin that has safety information and classes on safe cycling. Also, when riding in a group, it is everyone's responsibility to make sure the ride is a safe--and traffic abiding--ride. Twelve Things You Absolutely Have to Know to Race Bicycles:
More InformationHave other questions? Send them to Chris West or Rebecca Anderson.
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This website and all materials and content has been prepared by the Wisconsin Cycling Association and has not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by USA Cycling, Inc. 
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