Track Cycling

What is track cycling?

Riders race competitors around an oval track with a steep upward slope called a velodrome.

How to track cycle

The bicycle used in the race is built for speed. The bike doesn’t have breaks or gears, so it goes as fast as the rider can pedal it. Race lengths vary, so in shorter sprint races riders expend a lot of energy quickly, as a racer does in a sprint race in track and field. In longer races riders may pace themselves, and try to sprint for the lead in the late stages of the race.

How to win

In most track cycling races, the first rider to cross the finish line wins. But in some long distance races, riders who finish first at different stages of the race win points, and the rider with the most points at the end wins.

Equipment

Bicycle – the rider uses a taller, road-racing bicycle
Helmet – the rider wears a helmet to protect the head in case of a crash or fall
Gloves – the rider wears gloves to keep a good grip on the handle bars and make fast turns