This is page is intended as a quick introduction to Road Racing in Wisconsin and should not be referenced in disputes. For official rules, please consult the USA Cycling rulebook. If you see any errors on this page, please let us know.
Road racing encompasses a variety of styles of bike racing but generally share similar traits of being performed mostly
- In groups
- On pavement
- On bikes with drop bars
- On bikes with skinny tires
The three major road racing disciplines include:
- Road – Point to point races across larger distances in which groups of competitors start together
- Criterium (or Crit) – Multi-lap, looped courses, usually smaller than 5 miles, in which groups of competitors start together
- Time Trial – An out-and-back, individual race against the clock, in which individuals start one after another
Beginners
When registering, beginners, novices, and first-timers should look for Cat 5 All Ages races (often called Elite races) or if available, may pick a group based on their age group (often called Masters races).
Bikes
All bikes must have a working hand brake for each wheel. Flat handlebars are allowed, but highly discouraged outside of beginner races. Forward extension (or aero bars) are only allowed in Time Trial events. All accessories, such as racks, fenders, lights and kickstands should be removed.
Bike styles and tires are unrestricted, so road bikes, gravel bikes and cyclocross bikes are welcome in the field. Mountain bikes are highly discouraged.
Clothing
Lycra is ever present in the world of road racing, however there are few clothing restrictions. You can wear whatever is most comfortable, but sleeves are required; No tank tops are allowed.
Age Groups
- All Ages – Anyone can enter an All Ages (often called Elite) race.
- Juniors – If available, youth aged 18 and younger can race their age group or in the Cat 5 All Ages category.
- Collegiate – If available, collegiate racers can race in their performance group or the All Ages category of their performance group.
- Masters – If available, anyone older than 35 may race their age or younger. (E.g. if you are a 50-year-old racer, you can join a 40+ race or an All Ages race).
Gender
- Open categories (often referred to as Men’s categories) are open to all genders
- Women’s categories are defined in accordance with USA Cycling’s Policy VII, which includes people who were originally designated female at birth
- Non-binary categories are intended for people who do not identify as either a man or woman
Registration
The sooner you register, the happier everyone will be on race day. Pre-registration closes the Wednesday before the race weekend. Standard registration is available on race day and may be subject to an additional fee. Registration closes 15 minutes before each race starts.
You must have a USAC Membership and race license to race in any WCA events.
Practice
Practice is highly recommended to understand the skills required for a successful race day. We will try to aggregate some practices here soon. Time Trials are a good place to dip your toe into road racing, as they are raced on an individual basis, not in a large bunch.
Teams
Teams are not required, but they can be great for camaraderie and positive peer pressure. We will aggregate a list of team on this site soon.
More info
More info can be found at Race Day Tips for Beginner Road Racers from USA Cycling.