If you’ve even considered entering a bicycle race, you’ll know that racing Bonneville is the Holy Grail of cycling. It doesn’t get much more authentic than a flat course that circles the iconic Salt Lake City. If you’re lucky enough to make the cut, you know that it’s not only about winning, but it’s also about putting on a show. A unique blend of skill and spectacle that appeals to spectators and drivers alike. In order to get a taste of that action, we’ve put together this guide. It’s not about how to actually race, but it’s more about preparing for your first time and what you might need to know. We hope this helps you have an enjoyable experience and best of luck to all who enter the legendary salt flats!
Get The Formal Permission
You can’t just show up and race. You have to get permission from the organizers first. This is especially important for amateur races where there are a lot of professional riders. The last thing they want is some random amateur taking them out on a technical descent or cutting them off on a corner. In most cases, getting permission is straightforward. Be sure to reach out to the Salt Lake Cycling Club at [email protected] or visit their website at www.saltlakecyclingsalad.org and find the contact details there. They’ll be able to give you all the information you need.
Pick The Right Bike
If you’re just entering the sport or this is your first time ever racing, it’s fairly likely that you haven’t bought your own bike. Luckily, there are plenty of places where you can find a used bike or a demo bike. Just do your research and make sure that the bike is in good condition. Make sure that it has the right gears and that the brakes work. If possible, take a look at the previous owner’s manual to get an idea of how the bike operates. If you’re lucky enough to find a good deal on a new bike, by all means, buy it. You’ll need one for training as well as the main race. Even if you’re in the same category as the other racers, you’ll still need a level playing field. It’s also important to note that some tracks are better suited for certain bikes. For example, the San Francisco waterfront is rough and has many twists and turns. It’s a great place for a dirt bike, but a bit too much for a standard bike. Of course, you also need to take into account your own personal preferences when choosing the right bike for the track. If you have any doubts, ask one of the bike mechanics at your local bike shop for help. They will be able to give you an idea of what bike is best suited for your needs and how to choose the right one.
Practice On The Traction Trainer
A lot of the action on the track happens at high speeds. This is where you put in the training to be able to handle those speeds during the race. For this, you’ll need a device called a traction trainer. These are used to simulate the feeling of a slick, wet track and allow you to work on cornering, braking, and acceleration without risking injury or damage. If you don’t have access to a traction trainer, try finding a friend with a bike or borrowing one from a local bike shop. It’s also important to remember that not all traction trainers are made equal. It’s important to get one that’s been specifically designed for bicycles and has the right amount of traction. Even then, it won’t be perfect, but it’ll get the job done. Don’t expect it to feel exactly like racing on a real track. That’s what makes it so much fun!
Get Your License And Insurance
You’re about to enter a world of pain. The last thing you want is to be breaking the law by entering a race you’re not prepared for. That’s why it’s important to get a license and insurance before you head off to your first race. You also need to make sure that your health and safety are top of mind as well. Have a look at the SLC Cycling website for more information regarding getting your license and what you need to do to make sure everything is in order. You don’t want to end up in the sheriff’s office because you didn’t have the necessary documentation.
Have Fun
This is what it’s all about. You signed up for this hobby years ago and finally got around to doing it. You heard about the legendary races and jumped at the chance to participate. It doesn’t get much more authentic than taking on the Salt Lake City cycling scene. You’ll work hard during the training sessions but having fun is key. Never forget that this is a hobby, and you’re participating in a recreational sport. Have fun and enjoy the experience. Once you get the hang of things, you’ll have an idea of what to expect, and it won’t be anything close to what you’re used to back home. Keep your head up and look for the opportunities that come your way. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t go your way or if you make a mistake. It happens, but you have to keep going back for more until you get it right. As long as you have fun, everything else will fall into place. Racing can be a frustrating sport at times, but it’s all about perseverance and having fun anyway. You’ll get there eventually and race the best you can. Don’t forget, this is a hobby, not a career, so you’re not expected to win every single race. Just try your best and have some fun. Most importantly, enjoy the competition and the friendships that are built along the way. It’s all about having fun and pushing your limits. This sport is all about having fun anyway, so make sure you have that in mind. If you keep that in mind, you’ll have a much happier and more satisfying experience. Good luck out there!