bayareawheeler

So im the king of top tens in the E4's (substructuritas without the hernia causing intensity). I'm just now approaching a full season of racing between last year and this season (due to injury).

I've racked up 10 top tens from this seasons races in the local RR and a few crits...getting a little pressure to upgrade from buddies but I want to get on that $#$%% podium haha.

Best ive done is 4th in a RR. I’m now beginning to realize that I’m strong enough to place or win it’s the racing experience that’s holding me back. Positioning, when to go, etc. working to much, mental block I dunno...im getting mixed reviews from different friends. The guys in the 4's want me to stay, anyone higher 3's and 2's say upgrade ASAP and Ill rise to the occasion.

On the bright side I pulled a buddy to a podium this weekend and then again got my top ten LoL -

Then got another top ten in the Berkeley RR :sigh: the following day.

So I was just wondering what the thoughts were on the board...upgrade as soon as possible or stay in the 4's until I can consistently place or maybe even hold out for that elusive win.

rizz

``Positioning, when to go, etc. working to much, mental block I dunno...im getting mixed reviews from different friends. The guys in the 4's want me to stay, anyone higher 3's and 2's say upgrade ASAP and Ill rise to the occasion.''

If this question was related to time trials, we'd probably tell you to upgrade. Those aren't about tactics, instead it's just a power-to-weight thing with a hint of aerodynamics involved.

But what you need is the winning spirit. Knowing and doing what it takes to be at the front of the field instead of drafting off those that finish on the podium. Stay where you are and learn how to win then once you've done it you can upgrade and become pack fodder again, but this time you'll *know* what you need to do to finish at the front once you've got the power to do it.

``The guys in the 4's want me to stay, anyone higher 3's and 2's say upgrade ASAP and Ill rise to the occasion.''

You could be a team captain in the 4s if you start winning, or block in the 2s and 3s when they fly off the front. Which suits your style better?

Now if you start getting lots of podium finishes in the 4s, then you may as well upgrade.

flaco

There is nothing in the rulebook about needing a podium finish before upgrading. If I had the points, I would upgrade immediately.

At some point, they will force it on you anyway. (30 points?)

Hammonjj

It sounds like you've got the power, so I would say: find a good coach to come watch you in a race or two. With a little guidance you may just find yourself on the podium in as little as another race after your coach consult.

Do this and your cat 4 friends may be BEGGING you to upgrade.

James

umd

A lot of people say you should win before upgrading. A teammate (a while ago, before I knew him) decided to upgrade anyway, and is now a 1.

MDcatV

20 points, then upgrade. for most, it doesnt get any easier.

Duke of Kent

Upgrade.

I did better in the 3s than I did in the 4s. The whole group tempo ride with a sprint at the end thing didn't really suit me.

If you're a safe racer, meaning you don't pull bonehead or dumbass moves, get out of the 4s. You've paid your dues, and there's nothing you'll learn in the 4s that you can't in the 3s. But not vice versa.

bayareawheeler

thanks for sharing your point of view guys, the above statement nailed it...ive got a 2 more races im pre-reg'd for so ill finish those up and see if i cant get an upgrade.

umd

Ask the organizer, they will usually let you switch races if your category changes...

kensuf

Do what you want to do and don't let others pressure you one way or the other. If you'd rather hold out for the podium, then do so. When you decide you want to move up, even if you hadn't gotten the podium, do so.

Snuffleupagus

+1

The 3s are the place to fine tune your tactics. Upgrade now, and you'll probably have a lot more fun racing. If you're not a pure sprinter you'll also probably do better.

On the other side of that, provided I amass enough points, I don't intend to upgrade to 2 right away next year, as it's a much nastier jump from 3-2 than from 4-3, and I want to get a better feel for how to consistently win races.