Team Somerset Time Trial FAQ

Everything you need to know to be successful at one of our events.

What is a Time Trial?

A Time Trial (TT) is a solo race against the clock with riders starting 30sec apart.

”Each rider starts individually and races solo.”

They’re fun! And way safer than a mass start race like a road race or crit. Known as the ‘race of truth’, there’s nowhere to hide. No drafting. Just you and the clock.

Registration

Can I register the day of the race? Sorry, PRE-ENTRY on bikereg.com ONLY.

Do I need a USAC Racing License? Yes, but a one-day license can be purchased during online registration.

Which category should I enter?

A note about “Race Age”

For road racing (including time trials, road races, and crits), USA Cycling uses your age on December 31st.
USA Cycling Explanation

Non TT Bike categories: Road bikes only

Non TT A / Open – open to all
Non TT B / Novice – intended for new racers only.

Allowed: Road bikes, time trial helmets, skinsuits, shoe covers, aero socks. Bicycles shall conform to USAC rules for Mass Start Bicycles.

Not allowed: Time trial / triathlon bikes, aero bar extensions, full disc wheels, spoke covers, and other forms of solid construction “aero wheels” such as trispoke, Spinergy, etc.

Open / Aero Categories are for Time Trial & Triathlon Bikes

Senior Men & Women CAT 1/2/3
Senior Men & Women CAT 4/5/Novice
Age groups (juniors & masters)

Track Bike / Fixie Categories:

USA Cycling requires that all track bikes / fixies have a functioning front brake.

Equipment and Clothing

Can I use a road bike Yes! Non TT categories are just for you.

What do I need to bring with me? Generally, a bike, helmet & working rear light. Maybe some tools, a spare tube, a drink and a snack.

Do I need any other special equipment? No! Just a helmet. rear light and a bike in good working order.

Course and Marshals

Are the roads closed? We race on OPEN PUBLIC ROADS, so it is up to you to keep right and abide by all traffic safety laws.

Will there be marshals to direct me? There will normally be clear signage and marshals on the course to indicate the correct route, but it is ENTIRELY your responsibility to know the course.

Facilities

Will there be any bathroom facilities? YES! While we endeavor to have open public bathrooms at all of our events, sometimes this ends up being a portajohn or two.

Will there be some place to park? Yes! Maybe get there early to grab that spot next to your friends.

Will there be a mechanic / SAG tent? No (unless otherwise stated in the registration info)

All of our races contribute points to the NJ Time Trial Cup Series. For more info on the series, rules, etc. please go to:

What to Expect on Race Day?

Pre-Race

When should I arrive at the event? Number pickup starts 1 hour before the race. We recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before your start time.

When should I go to the start line? Plan to line up about 10 min before your start time. A marshal will be there to help.

During the Race

Hold or No Hold? Your choice. If we have a holder, they’ll hold your bike so you can start with both feet clipped in. Or just start with one foot on the ground. Entirely up to you.

What if I’m late for my start time? Just get to the line and a marshal will get you out there. Your race time will be calculated from your official start time.

What happens if someone overtakes me? Keep right, pass left. You’ll be fine. When passing, shout “ON YOUR LEFT!!” How about a word of encouragement?

What happens if I have a mechanical during the race? Happens from time to time. Get off the course and assess. If you can’t fix the problem, someone will let us know; we’ll come get you if needed.