Cycling terms

Attack: To accelerate in order to pull away from a rider or group of riders.

Blocking: Team strategy where one rider gets in the way of other riders to prevent them from passing.

Break(away): One or more cyclists who have attacked to form a lead group.

Circuit Race: 50-160 mile (80-257 km) event usually on a hilly course creating a loop of two or more miles (3.2 km plus). Criterium: Fast-paced, multi-lap race, rarely more than 62 miles (100 km) on a flat course a mile (1.6 km) or less. Drafting: Riding behind another cyclist to decrease wind resistance. General Classification: Describes a rider's overall standing in all of the events that comprise a stage race. Individual Time Trial: Each individual rider races a set distance against the clock. Riders start at set intervals.

Lead Out: Tactical move where a rider takes the lead in a race and allows a teammate to drift behind, usually for the final sprint.

Peloton: Main group of cyclists in a race. Also known as the field or main pack.

Prologue: Very short time trial, generally under 6.2 miles (10 km), held at the start of stage race events to determine the initial race leader.

Road Race: A road/highway race generally spanning 75-160 miles (120-257 km) from point A to point B. Stage Race: A single event consisting of different races (time trials, road races, etc.) or 'stages' that span a number of days.

Team Time Trial: Two or more riders, positioned one behind the other, race against the clock over a set distance.

For more information on the USPS Pro Cycling Team and official team gear, visit www.uspsprocycling.com