Time Trialling - A Guide

Time Trialling is the pure form of cycle racing, one rider one course against the clock, there is no hiding in the bunch no lead outs and the time given is final. It can be both frustrating and rewarding and dare I say addictive.

The rules of Time Trialling are laid down by Cycling Time Trials (CTT) the governing body in England and Wales and can be found in the "Handbook" or on their website Cycling Time Trials.

All riders should make themselves familiar with these before riding in an event.

Races

Most races take place over the standard distances of 10, 25, 50 and 100 miles and durations of 12 and 24 Hours, early season 'hilly' events tend to be non-stnadard distances. All members of clubs which are affiliated to the CTT and who are over 12 years old, all riders aged beteen 12 to 18 need to have a parental consent form signed before they may compete, can participate in Time Trials.

Races are predominately Open or Club events. Club events, as the name suggests, are organised by individual clubs and are usually held on weekday evenings when the daylight allows. They are informal events which allow entry on the line, although riders must still sign on and usually pay a small fee to cover costs and the CTT levy.

Open Events are more formally organised requiring pre-entry using the Standard Entry form.

All races follow a similar format. Riders start at regular, usually one minute, intervals and the aim is to complete the course as fast as possible on their own without assistance, if a rider is caught then they must fall back so as not to gain shelter from the other rider.

All races take place on the open road, and the courses are designed to be as safe as possible. Riders must always obey the law of the land relating to road travel, and are also responsible for their own safety and also for avoiding creating situations which are unsafe for other road users.

All Open race details can be found in the "Handbook" copies of which can be bought directly from the CTT or pre-ordered via the Time Trial Secretary before mid January each year to gain a small discount.

Entering Open Events

To enter an Open Event you must complete an Entry Form (Word) or Entry Form (PDF) The form contains basic information about the rider, name, age club etc. plus their best performances at the distance entered from the last three seasons and the current season. The form can look intimidating at first, but once one has been completed this can be used as the basis for most events.

If you are unsure what to complete or just want any further information or help then please contact our Time Trial Secretary, David Ledgerton TT Secretary