I feel this is going to be a very controversial post, and many people will have questions...you're welcome!
This is one of those deals where the number of opinions will be limited only by the number of experts called to testify!
When I was seriously into bicycle racing, I followed a program that went in phases. It's been a few years so my memory is a little foggy, but as I recall it started with a few weeks of lighter weights and more reps. However, it progressed to the type of lifting you're suggesting--heavy with five or six reps.
I've now grown an aversion to gyms. I just can't seem to stick to a program that involves lifting. So what I do now are mainly body weight exercises emphasizing core work. Some good info on it here:
Hybrid Mode
