Main Store:
1988 Shattuck Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
Phone:
(510) 843-7471
Fax:
(510) 848-5322



Annex:
1961 Shattuck Ave.
Berkeley, CA 94704
Phone:
(510) 843-4763

Email: [email protected]

© copyright 1998 the Missing Link Bicycle Cooperative Inc.
Here is a list of a few things that you will need in order to participate in bicycle racing.
Helpful but not neccesary:
Bike and Accessories: Obviously you need a bike to enter a race. If you already hace a bike you should be confident that it is in good working order. The demands of racing are such that a mechanical problem could pose both you and your fellow competitiors a risk of injury. If you're not sure what to look for take your bike into a shop and have it checked over. Your bike should not only be in good working order, but it should also be suited to the type of racing that you would like to do. For instance, a mountain bike could concievably be used for road racing, but you would be at a distinct disadvantage over the other competitors if you used it. Road racing, time-trialing, mountain cross country, downhill, and cyclo-cross are just a few of the disciplines in bicycle racing that benefit from having specialized equipment. A good basic road bike is the best place to start for road racing and time-trialing. It is a good idea to have a few extra accessories to help you in your endeavor. Clipless pedal/shoe systems are one of cyclings biggest technological advances in terms of efficiency., so it is a good idea to acquire a set if you don't already have one. It takes a little practice to master the technique of clipping in and out so make sure that you are comfortable with clipless systems before enterring your first race. A floor pump is a lot easier to maintain proper tire pressure than a frame pump is, although you should have both items, along with a spare tube, patch kit, and tire levers for fixing flats. Two water bottles are a good idea for keeping hydrated. The body requires much more fluid replacement during racing than in 'normal' riding.

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Clothing: A helmet is mandatory for racing. Make sure that your helmet meets the minimum safety standards set by the governing cycling body. Other cycling gear that is not required but it is neccessary for your comfort and efficiency as a cyclist includes; shorts which allow more freedom of movement and are padded for comfort, gloves pad your hands against impact with the handlebar, and in the event of a crash, eye shades keep debris out of your eyes, a good quality bike jersey allows you to maintain comfort at high levels of exertion.


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License: A racing licence is required for all but citizens races. You can purchase a licence on-line at the USA Cycling website. You have the option of purchasing a one-day licence at the event itself. A one day licence typically costs about $5, while a yearly licence is $35 for age 18 and under, and $50 for age 18 and older competitors. Here are some other links to get started:

NCNCA Home page

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Race Info: Next you need to know when and where to race. In Northern California, the NCNCA (Northern California Cycling Association is in charge of scheduling races throughout the year. They publish a calendar of races offered. Here are some other links that may be of use for you to get started:

Northern California High School Mountain Bike Racing
Collegiate Racing


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Teammates: It's a good idea to join a club whose members you can train with as well as go to races with. Bicycle racing is a relatively technical sport and the sharing of knowledge is important part of learning how to race. The NCNCA club page will help you locate a club nearest you.

NCNCA list of Northen California/Nevada Clubs

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Coaching: Want to take your racing to the next level? Finding a coach can help you achieve your racing goals as you work your way up the ranks.

www.bicyclecoach.com
NCNCA list of coaches


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