Cycling races, which are more commonly referred to as bicycle racing, are competitive sporting activities in which a variety of bicycles are used. Bicycle racing is a recognized Olympic sport as well. A number of different categories of cycling races exist including road races, track cycling, mountain bike racing and cyclo-cross.
Road Races
These could involve both individual and team competition and they are contested in a variety of ways, ranging from one-day races to multi-stage events such as the Tour de France.
Typically, the races occur from spring to fall. A lot of northern hemisphere cyclists spend the winter in Australia to train or compete. There are professional cycling races ranging from the “Grand Tour” stage races like the aforementioned Tour de France to one-day “Classics” like the Ronde van Vlaanderen.
Track Racing
These races take place on velodromes or banked tracks and the events are very diverse, ranging from team and individual pursuits to various mass and group start races. Contenders utilize track bicycles that are without freewheels or brakes.
Mountain Bike Races
These are off-road events which involve high or moderate degree of technicality. There are a number of varieties and the primary categories are downhill and cross-country; however, four cross racing or 4X is a part of the mix as well.
Cyclo-cross
This originated as an activity for road racers throughout the off season, in order to vary the training during the winter months. Typically, races happen in the winter and autumn and comprises a number of laps of a 1 to2 mile or 2 to 3 kilometer course featuring wooded trails, pavement, steep hills, grass and obstacles which require the rider to get off, carry the bicycle and get back on in a single motion. Generally, races for senior categories last between 30 minutes and 1 hour; the distance varies based on the conditions.
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