A Beginner’s Guide to Track Cycling

Are you intrigued by the whirl of wheels and the thrill of speed on the velodrome? Track cycling is a dynamic and exciting sport that combines speed, strategy, and skill. Whether you're looking to dip your toes into competitive cycling or seeking a new fitness challenge, track cycling offers a unique and exhilarating experience. We've put this guide together to help as your starting block to understanding and getting into track cycling.

 

What is Track Cycling?

Track cycling is a bicycle racing sport usually conducted on specially built banked tracks or velodromes. Featuring a variety of races that test speed, endurance, and team tactics, it’s a sport that has something for everyone, from sprinters to marathoners. Here at Velobike, we think it's a fantastic sport for everyone.

 

Why Try Track Cycling?

1. Community and Camaraderie: Track cycling boasts a supportive and welcoming community. Whether training or competing, you’ll find camaraderie and encouragement.

2. Fitness and Health: It’s an excellent workout that improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and enhances overall fitness.

3. Skill Development: Track cycling helps hone bike handling skills, improves speed, and teaches strategic thinking.

Getting Started

 

1. Find a Velodrome: Your track cycling journey begins at a velodrome. Look for one nearby and inquire about beginner sessions or introductory courses. A comprehensive list of Velodromes around the world can be found here.

2. Gear Up: Safety and comfort are paramount. You’ll need a track bike (fixed gear, no brakes), a helmet, gloves, and suitable cycling attire. Most velodromes offer rental gear for beginners.

3. Learn the Ropes: Join a beginner’s program. You’ll learn basic techniques, track etiquette, and safety rules. It’s also a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts.

Training Tips for Beginners

1. Build Your Base: Start with endurance rides to build your cardiovascular foundation. Include some interval training to improve your speed and recovery.

2. Focus on Technique: Practice riding in a straight line, controlling your speed, and mastering the banking turns. Good technique is key to efficiency and safety on the track.

3. Strength Training: Incorporate off-bike exercises that strengthen your core, legs, and arms to improve your power and endurance on the bike.

An excellent video from GCN showing 5 skills every track cyclist should learn can be found here.

 

Understanding the Rules

Familiarise yourself with the basic rules and race formats of track cycling, such as the sprint, pursuit, omnium, and keirin. We believe while getting started in the sport having a good understanding of the the rules will increase your appreciation of the sport and improve your tactical thinking.

 

 

 Understanding the Main Events of Track Cycling

Track cycling is a diverse sport with various events that test different aspects of a cyclist's skill, speed, and strategy. Here's a closer look at the rules and allure of four main events: the Scratch Race, Elimination Race, Points Race, and Keirin.

Scratch Race

We think the Scratch Race is track cycling in its purest form – a straightforward race where all competitors start together and the first to cross the finish line wins. Distances vary but typically span 15km for men and 10km for women in elite competitions. We love the simplicity of the Scratch Race belies the strategy involved; positioning, timing, and understanding your competitors are key to success. Cyclists must balance the effort to stay at the forefront against the need to conserve energy for a final sprint.

Elimination Race

The Elimination Race is one of the most spectator-friendly and high-stakes events in track cycling. After a neutral opening lap, one rider is eliminated every two laps, determined by the last cyclist to cross the finish line on these elimination laps. This process continues until only one rider remains, who is then declared the winner. The constant sprinting for position requires not just speed but exceptional tactical awareness and positioning to avoid elimination.

Points Race

The Points Race is an endurance event mixed with sprints, making it a true test of a cyclist's stamina and strategic level. Cyclists compete over a set distance, typically 40km for men and 25km for men, with sprints occurring every 10 laps. Points are awarded to the first four riders across the line on these sprints (5, 3, 2, and 1 point, respectively). Additionally, riders can gain 20 points for lapping the main field. The cyclist with the most points at the end of the race wins. If a rider gains a lap on the field, they effectively put themselves in a strong position to win, adding a layer of tactical depth to the race.

Keirin

Originating in Japan, the Keirin is one of our favouritea, is a fast-paced event that combines strategy with raw speed. Riders follow a motorised pacer (derny) that gradually increases in speed from about 30 km/h to 50 km/h before pulling off the track with 2.5 laps to go, leaving the cyclists to sprint to the finish. The challenge lies in positioning behind the derny to conserve energy and then timing the sprint perfectly. Keirin races are thrilling to watch due to their high speeds and the tactical jockeying for position behind the derny.

Equipment Care

We highly recommend learning the basics of maintaining your bike and gear. Regular checks and maintenance ensure safety and performance. Here are some basic tips and tricks to keeping your bike ready to hit the start line.

  

Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Track Cycling Bike

     1. Regular Cleaning

Frequency: Clean your bike after every race or training session, especially if you've ridden in a dusty or dirty velodrome.

Technique: Use a soft brush and a cloth with mild soap and water to clean the frame, wheels, and components. Avoid high-pressure hoses that can force water into bearings.

2. Chain Care

Lubrication: Regularly lubricate your chain to ensure smooth pedalling and to prevent wear. Use a lubricant suitable for the conditions you're riding in—drier conditions require different lubricants compared to a humid or wet climate.

Cleaning: Use a chain cleaner or a degreaser with a soft brush to clean the chain before applying lubricant.

3. Tire Pressure and Condition

Pressure: Check tire pressure before every ride. Track bikes typically run at higher pressures than road bikes. Consult your tire's sidewall or a coach for the optimal pressure.

Inspection: Regularly inspect tires for cuts, wear, and embedded debris. Track tires are thinner and more prone to damage, which can affect performance and safety.

4. Bolt Tightening

Check Regularly: Ensure all bolts, including those on the stem, handlebars, seat post, and crank arms, are tight and to the manufacturer's specified torque. Use a torque wrench to prevent over-tightening.

Schedule: Make this a part of your regular maintenance routine, especially before races.

5. Gear and Sprocket Maintenance

Inspection: Regularly inspect your chainring, cog, and lockring for wear. Look for bent teeth, which can affect your bike's performance.

Replacement: If you notice significant wear or damage, replace these parts to maintain optimal performance and safety.

Join the Track Cycling Community

Engage with the track cycling community. Social media, cycling clubs, and local velodromes are great resources for finding events, workshops, and like-minded individuals.

Track cycling is more than just a sport; it’s a journey of personal growth, fitness, and community. As you embark on this thrilling adventure, remember to have fun!