It really is a mixed bag, with some people that are very fit and fast, on their way up, some folks not as fit and fast, but still working pretty hard at it, and some people just trying out racing. The latter people getted dropped quick, and either work harder and come back, or decide its not for them.
The races do not tend to be long at all. (30-40 minutes for a crit, 30-40 miles for a RR is about typical)
But they're surprisingly fast. Not necessarily in average speed, but the surges can be high 20's low 30's.
You should definitely give it a shot. Only way to figure out if its for you, and how much more work you'll need to be competitive is to try it.
One problem with the "freds that just muddle through to say I finished" is that in a lot of races particularly crits, the officials will pull you if you're not in contention, and are in risk of getting lapped.
However, sometimes in smaller races, particularly in training series races, they'll let you jump in the back of the pack after getting lapped, just so you can get more trianing with the group. (but you can't contest the finishing sprint, or any prime sprints.)
I would reccomend finding where the local fast training ride is. Go out with them a few times, which will improve your fitness, and your pack skills, then sign up and give it a go.
You don't even have to buy a year's license, you can just do a one day license, and decide if its for you.
Last edited by merlinextraligh; 02-01-07 at 10:46 AM.