Northern California - Need Cycling group/mentor

I have been riding for about two years but in the past six months since I got my road bike I have really gone crazy with it. I am really wanting to take myself to the next level but I don't know how. The owner of my LBS says i have the makings of a competitive road racer I just need someone to refine my technique and give me a push in the right direction. Seeing as i am a broke 22 year old living on my veteran benefits and whatever else I can make, does not leave a lot of money for coaches and equipment. I would just like to find someone to teach me what I need to know about racing like pack riding, pacelines, and team tactics. If anyone on here would be willing to help I would greatly appreciate it. I live in Rocklin just outside Roseville. I do not have a car, so rides early in the morning two hours away do not really work. ;)

To start with, find a local club. Http:\\www.hammerinwheels.com has a lot of rides. Do some group rides to learn pack riding. Then go to a local race and ask questions.

Reading few books might be a good start. One of the better ones out there: The Cyclist's Training Bible: A Complete Training Guide for the Competitive Road Cyclist

Join a team and start doing some of the local group rides. Some local teams to check out would be Rio Strada Racing, Folsom Bike, Bicycles Plus, Bicycle Planet, Kinetic Cycles, Bicycle Emporium, Victory Velo. That's all I can think of off the top of my head.

@JoelS I just went on a ride with them yesterday after checking them out. Meet a lot nice people and was out with the front group almost the whole time. It really encouraged me I'm really happy I went.

@UmneyDurak I will have to see if I can find that at my local library.

@shiz702 Can you just join a team? Don't you have to be scouted and asked to join?

For most clubs, you can join anytime. The sooner, the better. Most kit orders are happening now.

Fast group rides = cheap training... not to mention the knowledge you can gain from the veterans of the pack.

Keep showing up. :thumb:

You can go ask to join a team. You don't need to be scouted until you get up to the higher levels. For just starting out, ask. There are commitments related to the number of races you have to do, maybe stuff for sponsors, etc. Also, the Early Bird clinics will be really good for you.

Here's some more general info: http://ncnca.org/