According to Merriam-Webster, a criterium is:

“A bike race of a specified number of laps on a closed course over public roads closed to normal traffic.”

IN OTHER WORDS, A CRIT IS NASCAR ON BIKES.

“Criteriums need a combination of strength, speed, endurance, and tactics to win. The races teach you how to bike handle, bump elbows, corner, fight for position, and avoid crashes. All skills that everyone needs even as a casual cyclist.”

FRANKIE ANDREU, 2018 USA CRITS SERIES ANNOUNCER
AND FORMER PRO CYCLIST

“This is always my favorite event on the Colorado bike race calendar and I think it continues to improve every year!”

PARTICIPATING CYCLIST