How fast till competition?

[Raisins]

I just started cubing about a month ago. I have a store bought rubix, it is a little slow and noisy. I just started trying to learn the 2-look oll/pll and can get sub 3min almost every time, best time 1:15.
What is a good time to go to a comp, even I just want to go and solve some and get official time? Also is there a like beginner bracket or intermediate class?

bonus: How can I stop my cube from being so creaky and noisy? I have a silicon lube I took it apart and sprayed it some. It turns smoother but is still really slow. What else could I do?

I plan on getting a DIY and working on getting sub 1min all the time.

[edit] I also have a 2x2x2 and I can get 30sec to a 1min. I haven't really timed it that much

 

[ShadenSmith]

Any time is a good time to attend a competition. They have a very friendly atmosphere, and seeing some fast solves is always inspiring. If you are friendly and talk to some people, you can probably pick up some great tips too.

 

[PCwizCube]

You can go to a competition any time, even if you can only solve the 3x3 in five minutes. Competitions are mostly a place to have fun, where you can talk to other experienced people.

And there are no beginner brackets or intermediate classes. However, they are First rounds, and Finals. There may be more rounds if there are more people.