Sportive

Hi all,
Sorry for the stupid question but in my defence I am completely new to cycling.
Could someone explain to me what a Sportive is??
thanks in advance
Sorry for the stupid question but in my defence I am completely new to cycling.
Could someone explain to me what a Sportive is??
thanks in advance
0
Posts
isnt an audax a slow Sportif ? :shock:
A sportive is different from a race in that
a) you don't all set off at the same time
b) the distance is usually longer than most races
c) you get wildly differing levels of ability
d) because of a & c the riders aren't all in one bunch, but in dozens of small groups or alone
e) officially you're not racing (but most of them give you a time when you finish), just trying to complete the ride (which is often deliberately routed over all the toughest climbs in the area)
f) you get lots more riders (hundreds, maybe even thousands)
I thought it was going to be a good way to get into some entry level competition but you say it isn't really a race.
Can anyone recommend what should be the first step into competition for a slow new starter who is also a poor climber but cannot shake off his competitive spirit??
the french sportives are also races though (as discussed by dave and sean during the giro today)
http://www.tlicycling.org.uk/
The slow group average about 23 mph for the 30 mile race and sprints will go up way over 30mph.
Fail to prepare, prepare to fail
Hills are just a matter of pace
You need a good degree of bike handling - so join a local club first and learn the ropes there.
And whilst there - the club time trials will give you an idea of your level of fitness.
Sportifs are fun - some people take them far too seriously though.