The Night Before: Setting Yourself Up
Race-day disasters almost always trace back to inadequate preparation the day before. Experienced racers treat the evening before competition as part of the event itself—a structured process that eliminates variables and ensures nothing essential gets forgotten in the morning rush.
Layout everything you’ll need in a single location. Not packed in bags, not mentally catalogued—physically laid out where you can visually verify every item. This visual inventory catches missing components that packing directly into bags might miss. Only after confirming every item gets a visual check should you organize into race bags.
Number Pinning: The Most Visible Rookie Tell
Incorrect number placement instantly marks inexperience. The standard configuration places your number on your lower back, centered and level, with all four corners secured. Numbers should lie flat without buckling—wrinkled, flapping numbers create drag, obscure digits for officials, and suggest you don’t know what you’re doing.
Pin through the number, not just the paper edge. Pins at corners alone allow the center to balloon; add two pins along the top edge and two along the bottom for a flush six-pin or eight-pin configuration. Safety pins should point inward toward the number’s center—outward-facing pins can open during crashes and cause additional injury.
For criteriums and road races, most organizers want the number visible from behind for finish-line cameras. Time trials typically require a side number on the right hip. Check event instructions; many now specify exact placement.
Bike Preparation Beyond the Obvious
You’ve checked tire pressure and lubed the chain, but race prep goes deeper. Shift through every gear combination, confirming no hesitation or ghost shifting. Test both brakes at speed during warm-up—pads wear unevenly, and race day reveals inadequacy at the worst moment.
Tighten your skewers completely. Quick-release levers should leave an imprint in your palm when fully closed. Check headset for play by squeezing the front brake and rocking the bike forward and back. Confirm your saddle and handlebars don’t rotate under pressure.
Remove unnecessary accessories. Bike computers not essential for racing add weight and clutter. Saddlebags suggest touring, not racing. Frame pumps can shift and interfere with your legs. Strip your bike to race-essential components only.
Timing Your Arrival
Arrive at least 90 minutes before your start time, two hours for larger events. This buffer accommodates registration lines, kit pickup delays, unfamiliar parking situations, and warm-up time. Racing stressed because you arrived late undermines all your training.
Know your schedule: when does registration close? When does staging begin? Some events close registration 30 minutes before start; others require you to be staged 15 minutes early. Missing these windows means not racing.
Warm-Up Protocol
A proper warm-up typically requires 20-40 minutes depending on event intensity. For criteriums and short road races, your warm-up should include progressive intensity increases culminating in two or three hard efforts that open your cardiovascular system.
Use a trainer if course access is limited or traffic presents hazards. Many racers bring trainers to events specifically for controlled warm-ups uninterrupted by stop signs, traffic, or course marshals. If riding on roads, preview the start/finish area and first few corners during warm-up.
Pre-Start Checklist
Fifteen minutes before staging: final restroom visit, last sips of water, confirm number is secure, verify helmet strap is fastened. Take off arm warmers or add a vest based on how you feel—not how you felt an hour ago.
At staging: know your call-up position if applicable, have your race radio earpiece in place for supported events, and keep one hand on your handlebars in crowded staging areas. Clip in on one side, ready to push off at the official’s signal.
The final minute before the start is too late for preparation. Everything should be complete, allowing you to focus entirely on the effort ahead.
