Training Rides
“It never gets easier. You just get faster.”
When it comes to training, Greg LeMond — the first and only American to have won the Tour de France (1986, 1989, 1990) — knows what he’s talking about. Training is work. It can be boring. Repetitive. Exhausting. But training is also transformative. It can be breathtaking. Rejuvenating. Exhilarating. GP United’s training rides are not about riding faster, but riding better, longer, and harder. Whether on the road or on the track, whether you want to race or just ride, these training rides will strengthen more than your legs and your lungs — they’ll strengthen you.
Road Training Rides
Weather permitting, there are typically three road training rides each week - a 10 mile Skills & Drills ride on Wednesday evening; a 20 - 24 mile Tempo Training ride on Saturday morning; and a 25 - 30 mile Speed Training ride Sunday morning. All rides begin and end within the Grosse Pointes and may include segments in Detroit and on Belle Isle. For any ride, riders must have their own bike, helmet, adequate hydration and, if not previously submitted, their signed Rider Waiver.
ATTN: If you plan on attending one of the weekly Road Training Rides, please text IN and your name to Tom DiJulio at 248-990-0573. Thanks.
Track Training Rides
While the road is a rush, the track is crack. Located at Mack Avenue and I-75 in Detroit, the Lexus Velodrome offers an exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping experience and free training and equipment for all riders under 18. Structured Training rides are offered every Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Prior to participating, all riders must complete Track 101 and Track 201 instruction courses by appointment and be approved by Track Director, Dale Hughes. Those who master the track can compete in Saturday Night Rumble races throughout the year.
ATTN: Currently, due to COVID-19, access to the Lexus Velodrome is limited. If you’re interested in track riding or racing, please text TRACK and your name to Tom DiJulio at 248-990-0573. Thanks.
Video Training
There are always things to learn whether you’re new to cycling or an experienced rider, from basic mechanics to proper riding form to training and race techniques. Below is a selection of “how-to” videos specifically relevant to the type of riding we do at GPUnited. You can also find an entire library of short, instructional and sometimes entertaining videos on virtually every topic at Global Cycling Network.
Ready to Roll?
If you’re interested in learning to ride & race in track & road cycling, the Grosse Pointe United Cycling Club is now welcoming junior riders, 14 -19 years old. Club members will participate in three weekly training rides within the Pointes & on Belle Isle – & will also have the opportunity to compete in local races & learn track riding at the Lexus Velodrome – Free!