Roadies

Most of us learn of road racing as the classic multi-day tours such as the Tour de France and Tour DownUnder. These races are team events held over several or many days, where the riders complete races that may be 3 or 4 hours long (often up to 200km) each day. They are truly tests of the toughest riders and demand the highest levels of conditioning. However Road Racing comes in many forms some of which are easier to get into and enjoy.

Criteriums: These are bike races held over circuits of a short course usually a couple of kilometers in length. Often organizers utilize a city block or a quiet industrial area. They may be set up as races for individuals or teams but either way informal team work and strategy plays a major part in determining the winner. Races are typically run over a nominated time, rather than distance, such as 30 minutes with a known number of laps added at the end (eg, 30 minutes + 2 laps) to encourage sprint finishes.

The local Northern Sydney Cycling Club holds regular criteriums at Mt Kuring Gai on a Sunday morning from 8am. While you have to be a member of a Cycling NSW affiliated club to race it is free to spectate and learn how it works. You can learn more about NSCC here and see their local race calendar here.

Time Trials: These as the simplest test of rider and machine where the fastest rider over the distance. Riders often adopt the most aerodynamic equipment to help them find the easiest way through the air which can make them look quiet futuristic. Time Trials (TTs) vary in length from 10km to 180km but the same rule applies, the fastest person over the distance wins. TTs are a create way to measure yourself without the complications of riding in a group.

The local branch of the Australian Time Trial Association holds regular time trials from near the Calga interchange on the F3 just north of Hornsby. You can buy a license on the day so all you need to go racing is your bike, helmet and willingness to have a go. You can find out more about ATTA here – remember you are looking for the NSW branch.

If you like the idea of riding a Time Trial bike but want the additional challenge of swimming and running then perhaps Triathlons are for you? Several of our team are keen Triathletes with Matt, our head personal trainer, also a Tri-coach. There are several Tri clubs near the Hornsby area but the most local is the Hornsby Triathlon Club (HTC :-)) if you want more information. If you are ready to go right now just complete their new member form and send it off to them.

You can check out our road racing specific bikes here. Don't forget you can also build up a custom road or time trial bike with us.