I've recently taken to road biking. Got sick of the whole mountain biking scene and decided it was time for a change to a real sport (sorry mountain people). My question is this, where do I start? I have my equipment, I have my daily practicing, but where do I go now? I'm a 17 year old that lives just south of Boston in Massachusetts and never really herd of any clubs or any races that take place in my area. Does anyone have some suggestions of web sites to check or places to look at where I could find a riders group or some races that I could eventually enter into? I'm not looking to turn pro but just to have some people that share a common interest. Thanks.
I've recently taken to road biking. Got sick of the whole mountain biking scene and decided it was time for a change to a real sport (sorry mountain people). My question is this, where do I start? I have my equipment, I have my daily practicing, but where do I go now? I'm a 17 year old that lives just south of Boston in Massachusetts and never really herd of any clubs or any races that take place in my area. Does anyone have some suggestions of web sites to check or places to look at where I could find a riders group or some races that I could eventually enter into? I'm not looking to turn pro but just to have some people that share a common interest. Thanks.
-Cameron
You're fortunate. You live in one of the great cycling areas in the world. There's a race every weekend from April to September if you're willing to travel a little bit. See "Local Clubs" at this link for starters. hcs.harvard.edulinks.htmlOpen ↗
I've recently taken to road biking. Got sick of the whole mountain biking scene and decided it was time for a change to a real sport (sorry mountain people). My question is this, where do I start? I have my equipment, I have my daily practicing, but where do I go now? I'm a 17 year old that lives just south of Boston in Massachusetts and never really herd of any clubs or any races that take place in my area. Does anyone have some suggestions of web sites to check or places to look at where I could find a riders group or some races that I could eventually enter into? I'm not looking to turn pro but just to have some people that share a common interest. Thanks.
-Cameron
try this: bostonroadclub.orgwellsave.htmlOpen ↗ The Wells Ave races are really well known - great course for a gentle intro to racing. BRC is also a long time club in the area. ask the folks there what teams/clubs they recommend.
also www.ne-bra.org most complete listing of races in new england which are USCF permitted (i.e. USCF permits).
try this: bostonroadclub.orgwellsave.htmlOpen ↗ The Wells Ave races are really well known - great course for a gentle intro to racing. BRC is also a long time club in the area. ask the folks there what teams/clubs they recommend.
also www.ne-bra.org most complete listing of races in new england which are USCF permitted (i.e. USCF permits).
I was actually thinking about applying to the BRC, its the closest to my location that I could find. Also whats the deal with those USCF licenses? Do I need one to race or something? I herd a few things about them but not sure if I misunderstood it or not.
I was actually thinking about applying to the BRC, its the closest to my location that I could find. Also whats the deal with those USCF licenses? Do I need one to race or something? I herd a few things about them but not sure if I misunderstood it or not.
The USCF provides a set of rules and regulations for racing as well as selecting a national team etc. But for local racers, the biggest thing they provide is insurance for promoters - if you're a USCF member, you can enter a race and pay just a $2 surcharge for insurance. Although you'll be able to find races that don't require a license, it's probably easier to get one and look for USCF sanctioned races. You'll see familiar officials, racers, teams, etc at the events. $10/day I think or $50 for the year. well worth it.
If you don't have a license you can't ride in a USCF race.
The USCF is part of USA Cycling. links are available at ne-bra.org and the main site is www.usacycling.org.
