The 'race of truth,' since sheer strength rather than tactics decide the outcome, time trialing is the most popular form of racing in the UK. Individual and against the clock, you can't hide in a bunch. Time trials can form part of a stage race, or they can be an event in their own right.
There are official time trials and 'club' events, open to anyone. You get standard distances -- most popularly 10 and 25 miles. The great thing about time trials is that, unless you're going for the win, the only person you're competing against is yourself. And the beauty about standard distances is that you can keep accurate tabs on form and fitness as the season progresses.
Road racing
Road Racing is massed-start cycle racing on roads or circuits (criterium races). The first rider over the finish line wins, with anything from a few to almost 200 competitors, depending on the event. In the UK, events range from short Youth and Juvenile (under16) races of 50km or less, through club level events for adults of between 40km and 100km, to Elite-level one day races of 200km or more. The majority of adult racing takes place on public roads, though there are a number of circuit events in the South and South West, either on motor racing circuits such as Thruxton and Castle Combe or on an airfield such as Merryfield, Ilton.
Tactics play a huge part in deciding the outcome of road races. Largely this is because, in the relative comfort of the bunch, wind resistance is reduced to a minimum and riders can conserve energy. If you want to win, however, you have to poke your nose in front at some stage; the trick is in judging when. Strong riders can go for a long, lone break. Featherweight climbers can gain an advantage in the mountains. Bulky sprinters generally gamble on the last 200 metres.
Leisure cycling / Touring
Leisure cycling takes many forms and can be enjoyed by all ages. It's about enjoyment, fitness, exploring, and much more. You may cycle purely for leisure on or off road, for purposeful transport to and from work or school, or to chill out after a competition. It is something that you can do at your own pace or with a group of friends.
Mt biking is a fantastic way to get dirty and enjoy your self weather, it be in competition or just getting out and on your off road bike through the woods and over the fields. Go with friends or out on your own remember always let someone know your route when riding alone and a estimated time due back enjoy your peddling. from GDW 3-Day stage race at Easter, the Tour of the Kingdom in May, the Tour of Moray in July and the Grand Prix series. In recent years a Development series has been established for young riders and beginners.
