How do you get started racing?

[Emm]

I've been cycling for years; only it's always just been touring. This past summer I biked across the U.S. unsupported in a little under 6 weeks, which meant lots of 80+ mile days and several centuries. I love touring, and riding in general, and really want to get into racing. Only; I don't know where to start.

I currently live in Budapest, Hungary and the whole lack of language skills makes things a bit more complicated. I've heard that there's lots of opportunities for amateur cycling in Belgium and other parts of Europe. I just don't know where to find out about these races, and which ones a complete beginner (zero racing experience) can join. Also, I don't have a race bike (and am not even close to being able to afford one in the near future). Can I use my touring bike (a Cannondale T2 2008) in races?

Any help, tips, advice?! Anything would be greatly, greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[wavedancer]

Maybe look into some cyclocross races? I know they take CX quite seriously in Europe, but maybe there are some amateur races you could try out. I would think you could use your touring bike with some knobby tires for that.

[aicabsolut]

I don't know if it's harder for women, but I'm sure there's a local team that you can find to tell you about the local scene. A novice (male) racer acquaintance of mine moved abroad this year and wound up being national Macedonian elite road champion. That said, the road season is winding down for this year. So, that means you have a lot of time to figure it out for next year. In the meantime, see if cyclocross is popular in Hungary.

You can get started on a touring bike if you strip it of racks, fenders, etc. It's not going to be the best kind of bike for racing in the long run, though. The geometry doesn't make it the best for fast cornering or accelerations, and it'll be on the heavy side for races with much climbing. I think it will satisfy all the rules, though.