I've been a long-time cyclist, but never in group settings before. Occasionally with others in a somewhat casual ride, but certainly never in any sort of competative sense. I'm *HOPING* to be able to progress enough to the point of feeling comfortable entering a few races next year, but do realize that I've got some development I need to do first. I imagine something basic like riding in a pack comfortably and safely would be a great place to start.
How do you all handle mass-starts? I've done that a couple of times in MTB races years ago, but certainly never on the road. How about cornering as a group? I can see myself getting all stiff and worried about the guy beside me and eventually causing mischief among the group myself as a result of this.
I've heard from a friend who went through a car racing school that they're taught when entering a turn to focus not directly in front of them, not even 30 feet in front of them, but rather on the EXIT of the turn. Do you find this true in cycling as well? If so, how do you balance that approach with worrying about the back tire of the guy in front of you? Or the handlebar of the guy who keeps encroaching on you right beside you?
I'll be doing some group rides (non-competative) with some others here starting this next week and carrying through the rest of the season and so hopefully I can start simulating riding as a group in a fast-paced atmosphere to some extent, but your help/advice would still be very appreciated.
How do you all handle mass-starts? I've done that a couple of times in MTB races years ago, but certainly never on the road. How about cornering as a group? I can see myself getting all stiff and worried about the guy beside me and eventually causing mischief among the group myself as a result of this.
I've heard from a friend who went through a car racing school that they're taught when entering a turn to focus not directly in front of them, not even 30 feet in front of them, but rather on the EXIT of the turn. Do you find this true in cycling as well? If so, how do you balance that approach with worrying about the back tire of the guy in front of you? Or the handlebar of the guy who keeps encroaching on you right beside you?
I'll be doing some group rides (non-competative) with some others here starting this next week and carrying through the rest of the season and so hopefully I can start simulating riding as a group in a fast-paced atmosphere to some extent, but your help/advice would still be very appreciated.