Pedal power has never been more popular. More and more people are getting on their bikes for leisure, commuting and fitness, as well as exploring the thrills of cycle racing. Among the most challenging sports in the world, competitive cycling is a high-speed, high-adrenaline experience and this book is the essential handbook for novices and more accomplished racers alike. Complete with detailed sections on road, off-road and track racing, this book will guide you through every different type of racing, from the intensity of time-trialling to the unique challenges of cyclo-cross and triathalon. Advice on bike selection for each style of racing is included, with step-by-step instructions to teach you essential skills and strategies to get ahead of the pack. You'll learn how to climb, corner, descend and sprint safely and speedily in all conditions. All the great races are covered, with information on the different stages of each, profiles of champions and the history of the more memorable competitions. To help you on your way to racing success, tailored training programmes and specialized drills are provided so you can reach top-level fitness. Completing the range of practical guidance is an introduction to advanced refuelling techniques and the lowdown on team tactics used by world champions, as well as advice on how to avoid and deal with injury. Over 200 photos evoke the thrills of the race as well as offering helpful guidance on riding positions and key manoeuvres. The ideal starting point for those who want to get into racing, the experienced rider will also find this definitive guide to the sport packed full of enough expert advice to help them turbo-charge their race performance.