SuchetK

Hi, I am looking for some feedback on whether or not I'm ready for a CAT 5 race. I've been training for around 4 months and plan to continue training.

Height-6' 0"
Weight - 56 kg, 123 lbs
FTP - 172 watts
Power to weight ratio - 3.07

Am I ready?

gl98115

YES!

Racing is more than numbers, and the best way for a beginner to learn is to get out and race. Go for it.

rubiksoval

No one is ever really ready for their first race. That's why you should just go do one and get it over with. From there you start figuring out what you need to work on to be more successful.

caloso

Have you done any group rides? I'd recommend getting some pack riding under your belt before racing, but your fitness seems fine.

SuchetK

Hi Calaso, I'm part of a cycling team and I know how to draft and everything. However I'm still a little shaky with bike handling and I can only get so close to a wheel without getting nervous. I know junior races are aggressive. Do you recommend learning to push against people more? We've only done a little of that in training. It's good to know my fitness is ok though.

caloso

If your team does bump drills, that is great and you will have more experience with contact than most. I would say you should race and if you feel nervous, sit on the back until you get comfortable.

Doge

You are in a junior forum. How are junior races?
At 6' 123lbs I'm guessing you are in the 15-16 age bracket or younger. You might want to try roller riding to improve your confidence and handling. Stop, stand, try no hands, advanced jump off and on. Anyway it will both help your real handling and your head. Cat 5 - anything can happen.

Something I always told my son and it served him well - you are responsible for where you ride. Meaning - if there is a sketchy rider giving you a good draft - you have a choice to make.

cpstwoart

It's definitely valuable to have people push against you to get more comfortable with the feeling. It can be scary to get bumped at first and crashes happen when you panic. But more valuable might be getting on a mountain bike and hitting up some trails. General bike handling skills translate. If you are more confident on the bike then you will respond to these things more quickly and safely.

DMC707 

If you have to ask, I'd normally be inclined to say no.

Racing is more than just numbers --

Go out there and get blown out the back a couple of times, it's good for you.