Mountain Bike Racing - Newbies

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knobbymojo
01-01-03, 12:46 PM
Does anyone have tips for someone looking to get into racing xc? I want to race this year, but I have never done it before. I am curious about training mostly.


dirtbikedude
01-01-03, 03:08 PM
How long have you been riding?
If you are in good shape and have decent technical skills then I would recomend finding some local racers and riding with them. That way you can somewhat judge what you need to improve on.

Also, just go ahead and enter a beginer class in a local race. That way you will know what to expect, how to prepare and what you forgot to bring.:p
Most first time racers forget something.

Find out how long the laps are. A 10 mile loop in a race atmosphere is alot differant then one you would do on your local rides. With the anticipation, adrenalin and nervousness you will need to be careful not to burn your self out at the begining. try and get a good start but do not over do it.



Your first race will be more of a learning experiance. Even if you win you will learn alot.

Most of all have fun.

Slainte:beer:

bac
01-01-03, 05:34 PM
Originally posted by dirtbikedude
Also, just go ahead and enter a beginer class in a local race.

Yup - that's also my recommendation. Enter a race in the beginner's class, and then just ride. You'll learn a bunch on that first race, and you may even be competitive. Start out by pacing yourself, and remember to have some fun with it. :D


Hawkphoto
01-02-03, 08:46 PM
What they said!... And "Just Do It!"

I should've started racing years ago, but never thought I was good enough or eligable or was just nervous and scared...

The truth is, everyone out there racing is just like you! And they all started the same way, with that one first race! You will have a blast out there, it's absolutely auxilerating!

Good Luck,


Mike