I recently purchased an mid-range racing bike because my interest and experience in racing has gone up within the last year. I still have a 1 year old (much heavier) cyclocross bike. Do most people train on heavier/sturdier bikes, or the bikes they actually use in races?
Thanks

from what i know, it all depends on the rider. some people just swap out wheels. if i were into racing, which i am too chicken to do, i would get my base down using the non-race bike. then, when the seaon gets closer, switch over to the racer, but with training wheels. a few days before the race i would throw on the race wheels and take it out for a few shak downs.

i would still do recovery rides on the non-race bike.

of course, you will have people say that geometry and fit affect the way you train your muscles. to get your muscles used to positioning you should be riding on the racer as much as you can. those of us who can barely afford multiple bikes will not want to put the racer in any more danger than is needed.

My intention was to use the race bike for race only, but I have found I like riding it too much and use it on most of my training rides. I do not use my race wheels on these rides but do use the race bike. Just because I enjoy riding it and it makes me feel good.

However, if there is a chance of rain, or if the roads are wet (earlier in the year if there was snow, ice, sand and salt on the road). I ride one of my beater bikes. One is an old hybrid which I use in the sand salt and snow. The other is an old trek 400 (with side friction shifters) that I use when it is just wet or raining.

If I was smart I would leave the race bike for race only, but It's not that expensive of a race bike. I can afford to replace it if I wreck it during training (or a race).

I recently purchased an mid-range racing bike because my interest and experience in racing has gone up within the last year. I still have a 1 year old (much heavier) cyclocross bike. Do most people train on heavier/sturdier bikes, or the bikes they actually use in races?
Thanks

I race and train road on one road bike in the summer. Same one for the trainer in the winter.

My cross bike is used for cross, and with fenders for winter training and commuting.

train and race on the road bike. Use the cross bike in bad weather, commuting or whatever.

Road bikes don't wear very well if properly maintained. they are nearly hassle free if compared to mt bikes - which I can see more of an argument for having two. (i do)

You will appreciate the confidence of having the bike you spend time on with you in the race.

For intensity and speed work, ride the bike you're going to race on. Use "training" wheel sets if you have them, but you'll be better served riding and racing on the same bike.

Use the other bikes for recovery and "noodling" -- easy rides. Part of training for racing is becoming familar with your bike. Also, your body needs to know how your bike responds to race situations, breaks, manoeuvres to avoid riders, sprints, climbs.

Part of speed and intensity work is being able to accelerate the bike. A heavier or less responsive bike won't serve for this sort of training.

Finally -- It's a new bike! Ride it if you feel like it!