MTB: Racing

Similar to other disciplines of bike racing, there are smaller local races and higher profile national series events (NMBS races). For your first race, it is best to start small. The course will likely be easier, and the atmosphere will be smaller, which will help you get to know your fellow racers. You might even have a better shot at winning some prizes, due to the smaller fields!

Before long, you will be ready to move on to more challenging races, and at that point, you should consider traveling to the nearest NMBS race to pit your skills against the nation’s best. Be prepared for a challenge, but take time to enjoy the event – walk through the pits, watch the pro races and check out the nightlife. The first few NMBS races that you attend are some of the most exciting, so be sure to have fun!

Aside from the traditional NMBS circuit, there are also ultra-endurance events, often 24-hour races, which provide another great way to commune with the mountain bike community. For beginners, these races might be best experienced as a spectator, but as your skills advance and conditioning improves, you might want to get a few of your close friends together and race as a relay team.

This Article Published 2004-07-26 14:53:35 For more information contact: membership@usacycling.org