Inspiration

On the first weekend of May, the top names in cycling - men's and women's - battled it out across Yorkshire in front of 2 million spectators. Maria David went to try some of what they did for herself...

There's no denying that road racing is really hard. If you want to do yourself justice you're going to have to deal with nerves, physical pain, perhaps some fear and potentially some risk. These are all things I choose to accept. That doesn't make me a badass, it just makes me a bike racer. I'd like to tell you about my first race.

As partners with Women V Cancer Ride the Night, the UK's biggest women-only charity night cycle ride, we share our 8 top tips to keep you cycling safely after dark. Read our guide on how to stay safe while cycling past the hours of daylight - we think you may be surprised by some of what's included!

Take a glimpse at social media right now and you may well come across the hashtag #crossisboss. But exactly what is everyone talking about?

Juliet's just finished her first season. "Racing bikes is nothing short of a high so with the season all wrapped up and no more fixed crits until next April I'm feeling something akin to withdrawal."

Most of us like a challenge. But with that often comes nerves and pre-event anxiety. How do you strike a balance and channel those feelings into doing your best - and even enjoying the event?!

Juliet is used to short, fast-paced, competitive rides - that's where she thrives. Until now. So as an experienced cyclist, how will she be preparing to ride from Lands End to John O'Groats?

Last weekend I was lucky enough to be a guest of ŠKODA at the epic that is RideLondon - Surrey 100. From route to food, drinks, mechanical assistance and more, the folks behind the cycling extravaganza ensured that the only thing we had to do was pedal, what luxury!

On May 21st 2017, we hosted our first VeloVixen Women's Cycling Day at our place, just outside Oxford. Would anybody come? After all, when you have a house party, you can never be sure... Find out if they did.

There are so many brilliant reasons to give racing a go as a woman - and Juliet's been through from beginner to seasoned pro. What have you got to lose?

Pawing the ground: Juliet's race no.8   The world is full of inequality. Women are paid less than men, some people starve whilst others grow ...