10 steps to success
Here’s how to prep for the big day, from kit to tactics and rules
01 What do I need to wear?
● Having the correct clothing is essential on a long event. Good quality, worn-in shorts and socks, chamois cream and no underwear will all help reduce the risk of chafing. Also necessary is a cycling top with back pockets, a base layer – even if the weather is good, as it provides an extra layer between your skin and the road should you come off – and packable waterproof jacket. Check the weather forecast and remember lightweight layers are your friend.
“GOOD-QUALITY, WORNIN SHORTS AND SOCKS, CHAMOIS CREAM AND NO UNDERWEAR WILL ALL HELP REDUCE CHAFING RISK”
02 What kit do I need?
In addition to the obvious bike, helmet and shoes, other essentials are: lights, nutrition, water bottles, a phone, inner-tube spares, gear hanger (a small bike part that connects the rear derailleur to the bike frame) and tools. Good-tohave items are a smart watch or bike computer, preferably with the route loaded, sunglasses, gloves, small first-aid kit and sun cream.
03 What if I have mechanical issues?
Depending on the event, there are often stops en route with mechanics to help with technical malfunction. However, it’s worth practising tyre changes and having an overview of bike mechanics so that you’re skilled and confident enough to manage independently if you're a long way from help.
04 Do I need to know the route?
It’s best to have an idea of the route, especially for smaller-scale or longer-distance events as it will help you know what to expect. Some sportives have marshals, but don’t rely on them. Look for the coloured arrows, but make sure that you’re following the correct ones if the event has more than one distance. Ideally, you’ll have a smartwatch, phone on holder or bike computer with the route loaded. Read the briefing pack carefully so that you know where landmarks such as big climbs and stops are.
05 What kind of bike do I need?
A road bike is preferable, ideally with 25-28mm tyres, though people do take part on all sorts of bikes. We would highly recommend a bike fit where expert fitters will ensure the
bike is set up to your frame, making the bike as comfortable as possible and helping prevent injury.
06 How do I learn to ride in a pack?
The short answer is practice! One of the most important aspects of sportive training is riding in a group. Most local cycling clubs welcome beginners and can demonstrate cycling etiquette in a pack situation as well as giving advice on manoeuvring around potholes, pedestrians, cars, lights, tight turns, downhills and other hazards. Become comfortable being amongst other cyclists so that you won’t be intimidated on the day when others are nearby, and you won’t endanger yourself and others. It’s worth remembering that you save 30% energy sitting behind someone’s wheel, so it’s worth the effort of learning how to do it.
07 What do I do about food?
● It’s vital to practise nutrition in training as experimenting with something new may lead to stomach issues. Sportives generally have food stops – details will be in the briefing – but take essentials with you. Hydration tabs are a good way to ensure you’re enjoying the right mix of carbohydrates and electrolytes as you can fill up water bottles at stops. Dr Andy Middlebrooke, an exercise physiologist and cyclist, recommends consuming 60-90g of carbohydrate and 500ml of fluid every hour during the ride.
08 How much training should I ideally do?
It depends on your current aerobic engine, but time in the saddle is the most important factor in getting used to long rides. Ideally you’d find eight to 10hrs a week to train and do two shorter rides midweek, a quick session on a Saturday and a long ride of four-plus hours on Sunday. Access to an indoor bike is an advantage for training regularly, safely and consistently. Train for the course you’re riding too. Sportives usually feature hills, so find some hills to challenge yourself on and build muscle strength and endurance.
09 What are the essential event tips?
Remember to eat and drink on the way to the spottive's start so you begin your ride fuelled up.
10 What are the rules/etiquette of sportives?
The Highway Code is key here but some other specifics include riding with approximately 1ft between your front wheel and the back wheel of the rider in front, and 1ft between your shoulders and the rider beside you. Be prepared on small or busy roads to ride in single file. Lead cyclists should navigate and point out hazards such as potholes, manhole covers and dangers in the road that could cause punctures or accidents, by shouting or using hand signals. Listen and repeat for cyclists behind you.
“TAKE ESSENTIALS WITH YOU AND TRY TO CONSUME 60-90G CARBS AND 500ML OF FLUID EVERY HOUR”