1. About the Track
Track cycling takes place in a special arena called a velodrome. The velodrome track consists of two 180 degree turns with two straightaways. Velodrome curves have steeply banked walls, and the cyclists race in laps around the center of the arena. There are indoor and outdoor velodromes for track cycling. Riders must stay inside the blue bottom line on the inside of the track. The finish line is marked in black and white at the end of the home straightaway.
2. Special Bikes
The bikes used in track cycling are similar to road bikes. However, track bikes are single gear to better suit the needs of the track cyclist. In order to improve aerodynamics, some track bikes have handlebars that are narrower and have a lower drop handle than regular road bikes. They also alter the seat so that it leans forward further, pushing the rider towards the handles. Track bicycles have no brakes, and don't freewheel.
3. Types of Races
There is a large variety of track races. Time trials are individually timed races, with only one racer on the track at a time. Sprints are head-to-head races, with two cyclists competing over a three-lap race for the fastest time. There are two types of pursuit races, team and individual. In pursuit races, the rider or riders start on opposite sides of the track and try to catch the rider or riders on the other side. The Points Race is a race where riders try to earn the most points. The first four riders to complete each lap earn points, and there are double points for the first four finishers in the final sprint. The Madison is a longer distance version of the Points Race, with teams of two riders who switch off throughout the race. The kierin is an eight-lap race, with a motorbike leading the first five and a half laps. Then, the cyclists sprint to the finish to win the race. The Olympic sprint is a three-lap race involving two three-man teams sprinting to win.
4. Track Popularity
Track cycling is very popular in European countries, as well as Japan and Australia. Many road racers use track racing as their off-season sport, keeping themselves in top shape year-round. Track cycling in the United States is quickly growing in popularity. Track cycling is also a sport in the Summer Olympic Games.
5. Road Rules
Riders must wear helmets at all times when on their bikes. Cyclists have to let faster riders pass by them, and they must not block their path to stop them. If a crash occurs due to faulty bike work, it results in automatic disqualification for the cyclist. Bikes must meet track-cycling standards, and qualified personnel at race sites perform inspections.
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