Over the past 3 months I have learned to love biking. It all started when I couldn't go running due to a leg injury, I decided to go for a short ride instead. I ended up going 35 miles on a fat beach cruiser:p. Since that I have loved riding.

I want to get into bike racing but I don't know where to start, i don't even know about the types of racing (besides velodrome, but thats not my thing). I have looked online but I can't find anything on the subject. Could someone point me to a link or explain the different types of racing? I see people talk about Cat 1-5 a lot, what is that?

Any info would be appreciated, Thanks

Max N

www.usacycling.org

www.usacycling.org

and here is the link to the 'getting started' area:

http://www.usacycling.org/news/user/story.php?id=2622

Thank you very much. I couldn't find anything on this

Depending where you live there should also be a local racing association. Usually they are regional, or state wide. If there are any races scheduled near you, that would be a great place to get info too. A local bike shop may be able to help also. Good luck!

Find a club that races and do as many regular group rides as you can. You can ask at your LBS or the "find a club" on the USA cycling website already provided.

If you're in college I highly recommend collegiate racing. These races are usually pretty early in the season, much more low key, and much smaller fields. That is how I got into racing way back when.

As for Cat 1-5 - you start off in 5 and work your way up.