Racing Tactics for Cyclists

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Item # VL-82301  ISBN: 1931382301




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Competitive cycling is about using good technique and having a strong tactical sense, or "race smarts." While it's true that the most physically prepared cyclists usually survive, it doesn't mean they always win. In his own 14-year racing career, Thomas Prehn proved that smart tactics can humble even the most potent rival.

Prehn helps cyclists avoid common race mistakes and ride intelligently. You may have dedicated hours to training and improving your level of fitness. Now that you can race, here is how to race.

Useful topics include:

• "Reading" a race to anticipate the outcome
• Criterium and stage race tactics
• When to attack, and when to lay back
• Pace lines, echelons, blocking, and breakaways
• How to stay informed during a race and deal with disasters

Prehn supplements his advice with anecdotes and memorable race moments as well as instructional diagrams throughout the book. Racing Tactics for Cyclists is a toolbox offering you proven tricks of the trade for your current cycling program.

Table of Contents

• Foreword by Davis Ohinney
• Preface: Tactics for everyone
• Introduction: Bicycle racing—An exercise of the body and mind
• A tactical toolbox
• Pace lines
• Breaking away
• Blocking: The art of being uncooperative
• Wind, hills, and other challenges
• The importance of staying informed
• Dealing with the disasters
• Tricks of the trade
• Time to sprint: The charge to the line
• The criterium: A tactical microcosm
• Stage races
• Honing your skills: Bike, mind, and body
• Final word

About the Author

Thomas Prehn has been involved in cycling since the early 1970s. He won the 1986 USPRO road championship and was a consistent top finisher in US national championship races throughout his career. He was also a member of the winning US national time trial team in 1982.

Racing Tactics for Cyclists