Racing

From Farkin Wiki

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[edit] Guide for beginning downhill racing ==

What bike: It doesn't really matter as long as its safe, that both brakes work, try to have at least 100mm of front suspension travel and install bar plugs on your handlebars.

What to bring: You should bring a tool kit and the usual spares if you have them. Dérailleur hanger, dérailleur, spare chain link and cables ect.

What to wear: Full face helmets are standard in all downhill races, so you will need one of them. Ask the shop to help you with the fitting, It should be snug but not put a lot of pressure on certain points. I would also recommend a long sleeve jersey, thick shorts, gloves and shin guards. Body amour is always a good thing to have but not necessary, i would advice you get some though.

What to expect: Expect there to be a lot of fast guys, but don't let this bother you, in practice let them past. Faster riders will usually call out 'rider' if they are coming behind you. If there is no safe place to pull over then don't. Not until it is completely safe. However in race runs you should let riders past as soon as possible. Reading this [1] before racing is highly recommended. I would also advice to start racing in club rounds, don't jump the gun and go straight to state. People take state racing a lot more serious than club racing, people race to win.

What to do: Go over and register your details with the volunteers of the event. you can either choose to get a day license or an yearly MTBA license. I would advise to get a day license first time you go racing, because if you don't like it, and don't want to race anymore then you've wasted about 60 dollars. Once you have registered attach the number plate over the top of your cables, parallel with your bars so that your number is easily viewable. \ Remember Don't stress out, have fun don't worry so much about pushing yourself harder than you can, just to impress others, take it easy and have fun.

Why does it cost so much? You first race costs a bit but you get really good value. Most of it goes on insurance and the rest is taken up by transport. The club is non-profit and anyone in the club is free to have a look at the books if they want. All money goes back into the club. In fact if we just went on entry fees the club would make a loss most races.

Cheers Chris.