What “tricks” means in racing
In racing, the useful tricks are rarely flashy. Nobody wins a race by performing a stunt. What helps is a collection of habits: starting well, riding in a good position, cornering smoothly, eating and drinking sensibly, and staying calm. This article covers some general race skills for newer competitors. It is not coaching. Different events have different rules and formats, so read your event’s guidance and consider advice from an experienced coach or club.
Racing also carries more risk than solo riding. Riders are close together, speeds are higher, and mistakes can affect others. Wear a helmet that meets your event’s rules, follow marshals’ instructions, and ride within your ability. Nothing here guarantees a result or protects against crashes.
Prepare the bike and yourself
Reliable equipment is a quiet advantage. A thorough pre-ride bike check before race day, covering brakes, tyres, wheels, chain and anything that rattles, avoids many problems. For repairs, see a bike shop and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Pack spares and tools suited to your event, as well as any items the organisers require.
Practise on similar ground to the course if possible, and learn the route. If you can ride or walk the course beforehand, note tricky corners, climbs and places where the surface changes.
Starts
Starts are chaotic, and the aim for most beginners is simply to start safely and cleanly. Arrive early so you are not rushed. Choose a gear that lets you accelerate without spinning out; a starting gear that is slightly easier than you think usually works better than one that is too hard. Clip in or find your pedals before the signal, keep your eyes up, and ride straight in the first few seconds. Many riders find a calm, steady start better than a frantic sprint they cannot sustain.
Different disciplines start differently. Mass starts, time trials and staggered starts all have their own rules, so check what applies.
Positioning
Where you ride in a group affects your energy and your safety. Riding behind others shelters you from the wind, which is why group dynamics matter in many road races. Staying near the front of a bunch can help you avoid problems behind, but it takes effort; being in the middle may be comfortable but offers fewer escape options. Beginners often do best by choosing a position that feels steady, avoiding sudden moves and keeping a little space.
Predictable riding matters most. Hold your line, avoid sudden braking, and use your voice or hand signals if your event’s culture expects them. Skills like paceline riding and calling out hazards are worth practising in a club group before you race.
Cornering and lines
Corners decide a lot in racing. In general, brake before the turn, look through it, keep your pedals level, and accelerate gently on the way out. A good cornering line is usually the widest, smoothest path that keeps you out of other riders’ way. If you are new, ride corners a little under your limit rather than at it. Falls in corners are common, and being relaxed matters more than being fast.
Fuelling and drinking
Eating and drinking well can make or break a long event, but needs vary between people, so there are no universal numbers here. In general:
- Have a sensible meal in the hours before, based on what you already know suits you.
- Try any food, drink or gels in training before race day. New products on the day can upset your stomach.
- Take small, regular sips and bites rather than waiting until you feel empty.
- Be extra careful in hot weather and think about hydration.
If you have a medical condition or special dietary needs, talk to a doctor or qualified dietitian. Fuelling is also related to effort. Pacing effort across the whole event, rather than going out too hard, is something many newer racers learn the hard way.
Pacing and effort
Starting too fast is one of the most common mistakes. Your body generally responds better to a steady build than a burst you cannot sustain. A bike computer or heart rate monitor can help some riders keep an eye on effort, but they are tools, not requirements. Learn how hard feels sustainable by practising in training, and listen to your body.
Mindset and etiquette
Racing is stressful for many people. A short routine can help: arrive early, warm up gently, breathe, and focus on what you can control. Be kind to other riders, thank marshals, and accept that some days go badly. Learning to deal with a puncture, a crash in front of you or a missed start is part of the sport.
Respect the rules, including those about drafting, passing and line-holding. A clean, courteous ride is a success whatever the result.
A simple checklist for race day
- Check the bike and pack required items.
- Arrive early and sign on.
- Warm up gently and visit the start area.
- Eat and drink what you have trialled.
- Start steadily, hold a safe position, and keep your eyes up.
- Pace your effort and take corners within your limits.
- After the event, note what you learned.
Racing skills develop over years, and a coach or experienced club mate can offer guidance far beyond a short article. Treat each event as practice for the next.