The ECCC's "Ask A Pro" Forum

Here is a forum where riders can ask questions of experienced pros - no question too basic or too advanced!

Dear Lindsey,

I just got a bike and I enjoyed riding it a lot this summer. I am interested in racing, but I don't know where to start and am a little intimidated by all those fast racers. Where should I start to see if racing is something I want to try? Am I going to be OK out there?

Thanks,
Future Champ

Lindsey Bishop, 2005 ECCC MTB Champion, Responds:
Dear Future Champ,

Give Collegiate racing a go! As soon as you experience one race weekend you’ll wonder where the ECCC has been all your life. And have no fear. All ability and all experience levels find their place within the array of racing categories at every race weekend. Here’s what you should do:

  • Find the Cycling Club at your school and get involved. If there isn’t one, start one up! The USA Cycling website has simple directions for initiating your club. Be bold. New club members will all come running for their very own padded spandex when they see you riding around campus!
  • The padded spandex brings up an important point. If you haven’t tried the spandex-chamois thing yet, I’d urge you to try for the sake of your own well-being. Plain black works well, hint-hint. A school jersey is also key for you to show off those school colors with pride.
  • Racing equipment is also important. Don’t you worry if your bike doesn’t quite measure up to the sparkly new specimens of more experienced racers. Just making sure your chain is clean and lubed and your tires are properly inflated is what matters. For mountain biking, having the tools and know-how to change a flat on the trail during a race would also be recommended.
  • THE MOST IMPORTANT THING? Have a good time! Collegiate racing can be as serious or relaxed as you want it to be. In the end, we cyclists all have one thing in common: we love bikes so much that we have a ridiculously good time riding them in circles. It is that simple yet beautiful fact that makes it easy to meet lots of new friends at every ECCC race weekend!

You no longer have to worry if you’ll be okay out there. In twenty years from now you won’t remember what category you raced or what place you got. But you will remember the people you met and the fun you had. So hit some sweet jumps this fall during mountain bike season and then give road racing a whirl in the spring!

Lindsey