Originally Posted by
Right Said Fred
Do most people new to bike racing join a team before starting racing or do they hook up with one after a few races?
Yes.
One of the best ways to check into a team is to go to a race and talk to people in the 4/5 races that are on a team. Do they get coaching/tactical advice? Group rides? Some teams are actually set up to help along new riders, others are just clubs where people wear the same kit so they can get discounts on tires. If you can find the former and the people aren't the guys yelling at everybody during the race, it might be a good fit and help you along the learning curve.