What Is Track Cycling?
High-Speed Human Power On Two Wheels
Fun, Fast and Focused Cycling
Track cycling is a bicycle racing sport usually held on purpose-built ‘banked tracks’ or velodromes using purpose-designed track bicycles.
The bicycles used are optimised for track racing. They are fixed-gear bicycles without freewheel or brakes. The frame and components are designed to be rigid and lightweight to aid speed over the race distance. Narrow tyres are inflated to high pressure.
Track cycling events broadly fit into two categories - Sprint races and Endurance races. Typically riders will choose one to compete in.
Sprint Riders train specifically for these three- to eight-lap races and use raw sprinting power and tactical racing to defeat opponents over a small number of laps. The main sprint events are Sprint, Team Sprint, Keirin and Track Time Trial.
Endurance Races are held over longer distances, testing the rider's endurance, tactics and speed. The length of the race varies by type. Some track endurance riders also compete in road cycling events. The main endurance events are Individual Pursuit, Team Pursuit, Scratch Race, Points Race, Madison and Omnium.
