82 | AustrAliAn triAthlete
4
have the basic skills:
Even though you will use racing
to develop your bike skills, it is
still important that you are
competent and comfortable on local
group/training rides first. Basic bike skills
that you will need include not only having
base fitness/endurance but also base bike
handling skills, knowledge of pack
etiquette, knowing how to draft andcorner, and having rider/situational
awareness - these are all essential to
riding safely. In bike racing (and pack riding
in general) you want smooth movements
rather than sudden changes. You also
want to hold a constant line through
corners. If you are unsure whether your
skills are up to scratch, most local cycling
clubs offer bike skills courses and trials
before entering a race.1
equipment: You will need a
road bike – tri bikes are illegal in
road races.2
Watch and learn: Head
down to a local race to first
watch a race in action. Watch
how the experienced riders
navigate the peloton, the lines they take,
how they spend their time and energy in a
pack, and how they set themselves up for
attacks or the finish line sprint. Watching
and learning can be one of the best ways
to learn from the best.
3
Join a cycling club: The
cycling culture and club
support are fantastic, so I
suggest simply finding a club
close to you and enquiring with them. A
list of clubs is available from your state
cycling body (i.e., Cycling Victoria). Clubs
are fantastic at supporting those new to
the sport and can provide you with plenty
of guidance and information on getting
started. Note: most Clubs will have a
small annual fee to join.
hoW To INcLUDe BIKe rAcING
INTo YoUr TrAINING: