Checklist For Your First Cyclocross Race

Get in Shape !
-Ride your CX bike. Lots! -Sprints & Accelerations -Ride fast or very slow, less medium rides -Mimic race effort, shorter duration -Be patient, it takes at least 2 months to get faster

Practice the Skills

-Ride your CX bike. Lots. -Ride singletrack -Ride with better riders -Attend clinics -Practice, practice, practice

Prepare Your Equipment

-Bike -Tires -Shoes & Pedals -Clothing -Be Prepared!

Get a Racing License

Select the Races

Select a Category

Understand the Rules

-Must stay inside the course markings at all times -Must not go around barriers or stairs -Mechanical assistance only in designated pit area -Preview the course only at approved times -Lapped riders may continue, but should yield to leaders -Lap board shows # laps remaining. Bell indicates 1 lap to go

Prepare for the Course and Conditions

Avoid Common Mistakes

-Be prepared for race day course & conditions -Dont make last minute changes - Be ready for the start -Stay focused at all times during the race -Prevent tire problems - Stay positive, cause bad things are gonna happen

Follow a Race Day Routine

Get yourself on a schedule, get your stuff dialed !

Warm Up and Preview the Course

-Warm-up for at least 45 minutes before the race -Pre-ride the course as much as possible -Follow the rules for pre-riding -Memorize key sections

Resources
-Clinics -Books: Cyclocross by Simon Burney -Low-key practice races: Golden -Videos: www.crosstube.net

Have Fun !

Checklist For Your First Cyclocross Race