Success in the Cape Town Cycle Tour - Ride's Top 5 Tips!
"Hold your line!" That's the shout you might hear as a pack of racers zoom past. Navigating your first Cycle Tour can be a daunting endeavour, filled with the pressure of outpacing your unofficial rivals and pleasing your supporters. The advice to "hold your line" isn’t about clinging to a lifeline; it simply means maintaining your position in your lane and avoiding cutting the corners.
This post isn’t aimed at the fiery veterans of the sport, but if you’re one of them and happen to be reading, please be kind to your fellow cyclists. Slowing down for a couple of pedal strokes to avoid a dangerous situation is just common sense and probably offers a good micro-rest.
By following these tips, you can enhance your Cycle Tour experience, whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the event.
For the newcomers, the less experienced, or the underprepared, here are our top tips:
1. Adopt a smart race strategy: The Cycle Tour’s terrain varies; savour the downhills for recovery rather than pushing hard, as the real time gains are made on the climbs. Stay energized for these uphill battles! On flat sections, engage with other riders. Being able to chat indicates you’re riding at a sustainable, aerobic pace - a necessity for finishing the tour.
2. Plan your nutrition carefully: Now is not the time for dietary experiments. Aim to consume 650-750ml of water per hour. Carry a bottle filled with an energy drink and if you’re using energy gels or bars, carry plain water to accompany them, as they’re not meant to be consumed with sugary beverages. Take breaks at water stations, ideally at the top of climbs. The short rest will also ensure that you regain your concentration for the fast-winding downhills.
3. Prepare an emergency/safety kit: Have your cell phone with a tracking app so your family can monitor your progress. Before the race, check that all crucial bolts are secure, including those on your seat post, saddle, and bottle cages. Make sure your wheels and headset are tight. Carry spare tools for tyre changes, or ensure you have the means to get help if needed.
4. Abandon excuses: The sport of cycling offers a wide menu of excuses. Maintain a positive mindset by steering clear of negative thoughts. Your training might not have been perfect but focus on making the best of what you’ve achieved.
5. Learn from the pros: Although professional cyclists have their own set of advantages, like riding in cooler temperatures with technical support, we can still learn from them. Aerodynamic resistance is a significant factor; stay low, wear fitted clothing and seek shelter from the wind by drafting behind others. When taking your turn at the front, maintain a consistent pace. Finally, pin your race number low on your jersey to reduce drag.
By following these tips, you can enhance your Cycle Tour experience, whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the event. Remember, the journey is as important as the finish line.
Enjoy the ride!
The RIDE Team
