Table of Contents
What is a crit race bike?
So, what exactly is a criterium? According to Merriam-Webster, a criterium is: “A bicycle race of a specified number of laps on a closed course over public roads closed to normal traffic.”
How do you win the criterium on bike race?
The golden rules of crit racing
- Don’t panic. The first 20 minutes of the race will be fast and furious with plenty of attacks and breakaway attempts.
- Attacking. Attack like you mean it.
- Avoid overlapping wheels.
- Cornering.
- Conserve your energy.
- Read the race.
- Take a lap out.
- Positioning.
What kind of race is a criterium?
lapped race
A criterium is a lapped race on a closed circuit set in cities. Laps are usually a half-mile to 1.5 miles long, typically with 4-6 turns. Total race distance is usually 15 miles (beginner) to 60 miles (professional); approximately 25 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes.
Why do cyclists ride so close together?
Being close to the front means that the rider can see and react to attacks from competitors, and changes in position, with far less effort. Gaps sometimes form in the peloton, and being close to the front reduces the risk of getting caught in the rear group if a break occurs in the peloton, for example, after a crash.
What makes a good criterium bike?
The nature of crit tracks means there is little need for a super lightweight carbon road bike so get something that is moderately light, feels stiff under pedaling and has solid flex-free wheels. Fitting. One of the most consistent realities of the crit circuit is tight corners.
What is the plural form of criterium?
criterium (plural criteriums) (cycling) A mass-start road-cycle race consisting of several laps around a closed circuit, the length of each lap or circuit ranging from about 1 km to 2 km (1/2 mile to just over 1 mile). Alternative form of criterion quotations ▼
What makes a good crit racer?
Winning a criterium requires proper preparation, vigilant positioning tactics, keen attention to energy conservation, and a smart finishing strategy. While fitness is important, it’s the racer with the optimal combination of strong legs and smart tactics who will almost always win the race.
Why is it called criterium du Dauphine?
The race was created in 1947 by newspaper Le Dauphiné libéré to promote its circulation. The race was named after the newspaper and set in June, prior to the Tour de France.
What does peloton mean in cycling?
Peloton. You’ll hear this word used a lot in cycling commentary, whether it’s the Tour de France or an Olympic road race. Quite simply, it’s a large group of riders bunched together on the race route. Peloton is the French word for a small ball.
What do I need to know before my first criterium?
Here your quick guide on how to prepare for a crit:
- Attend a beginners skills session. Many cycling clubs have beginners skills sessions available to members.
- Time your nutrition.
- Check your gear.
- Check the weather.
- Clean your bike.
- Warm up.
- Recon before the race.
- Race and have fun.