Time trials are a common entry point into competitive cycling. They are often the bridge between recreational and competitive cycling. 
Rather than competing against other riders in a mass-start event, a time trial is you vs the course. No pack riding, much simpler tactics. But one point of contention for many riders is the turn around, a common technical barrier on a time trial course. The lone orange cone has caused havoc to many a cyclist. It’s a point in the race where you can come out of your rhythm, lose precious seconds if not done smoothly, and at worst, a place where you can crash and ruin your race. Knowing how to handle the turn-around is important because in the US, they are part of many time trials and you will encounter them.
- Scout the course. You need to know where the turn-around is located. Ride the course or drive the course before the race. Is the turn-around on top of an uphill? At the bottom of a downhill (we hope not), has the turn-around been swept? Is it full of gravel? Is there a tailwind or headwind at the turnaround? How wide is the road? Is it raining and are there slippery road markings? These are questions you need to have answered prior to the starts of the race. Prior preparation prevents poor performance. Know the course.
- The approach. As you approach the turn, anticipate when you need to brake. There is no defined distance to begin braking; it depends on the environment and how fast you’re traveling and the braking surface and your skill set. Practice is the solution. Brake while going straight and upright. This is when you have the most traction. Then coast through the apex of the turn and pedal out.
- Shifting. Begin your downshift before you break, still in aerobars. Anticipate the corner and what gear you need to be in coming out. You have studied the course and you will know where you need to be. Shift and keep pedaling until the gears are engaged. Don’t shift while coasting or your bike will shift under strain when coming out of the turn.
- The turn. Make the turn wide. Study the turn during reconnaissance and know how wide you can safely go. Swing wide and cut to the apex of the turn. Essentially minimizing the acuteness of the turn. Again, brake when straight. Then coast through the apex with your outside pedal down and weighted.
- The exit. Once through the turn, straighten your bike and take 10 strokes out of the saddle to get up to speed. Power out and get your cadence back up. Then sit and return to aerobars and shift accordingly. Head back to the finish line!
-Russell