Manchester Velodrome taster session
Discussion
Velodrome riding is pretty good fun. Haven't done the Manchester one but have been to Newport a couple of times. Its takes a little getting used to a fixed wheel bike if you haven't tried it before, but once you get over that you should be fine and getting out to the upper edges of the track in no time. Its a very good workout once you get going as well as there is no respite - although you do get plenty of cool off time. If they're anything like Newport they will start you off getting used to riding between the lines at the lower edges of the track, before introducing you to obstacles on the track and a couple of races.
Check what cleat system they use on the hire bikes if you want to use your own shoes, Newport use the old style Look cleats, so you can make sure that you have the right ones when you turn up.
Oh and if you haven't been to a velodrome before then you'll be amazed by how steep the track is!
Enjoy
Check what cleat system they use on the hire bikes if you want to use your own shoes, Newport use the old style Look cleats, so you can make sure that you have the right ones when you turn up.
Oh and if you haven't been to a velodrome before then you'll be amazed by how steep the track is!
Enjoy
Raoul Duke said:
Velodrome riding is pretty good fun. Haven't done the Manchester one but have been to Newport a couple of times. Its takes a little getting used to a fixed wheel bike if you haven't tried it before, but once you get over that you should be fine and getting out to the upper edges of the track in no time. Its a very good workout once you get going as well as there is no respite - although you do get plenty of cool off time. If they're anything like Newport they will start you off getting used to riding between the lines at the lower edges of the track, before introducing you to obstacles on the track and a couple of races.
Check what cleat system they use on the hire bikes if you want to use your own shoes, Newport use the old style Look cleats, so you can make sure that you have the right ones when you turn up.
Oh and if you haven't been to a velodrome before then you'll be amazed by how steep the track is!
Enjoy
Thanks for the summary. Fixed wheel and cleats sounds like a recipe for disaster - I'm still getting used to cleats on my road bike. I hope the helmets are good !Check what cleat system they use on the hire bikes if you want to use your own shoes, Newport use the old style Look cleats, so you can make sure that you have the right ones when you turn up.
Oh and if you haven't been to a velodrome before then you'll be amazed by how steep the track is!
Enjoy
the only advice i have is dont stray too high up the banking unless you are seriously pedalling, if you arent carrying enough speed you will lose grip and tumble off making a mess of everyone following you... its easy enough to get used to it all, just start off slowly, listen to the coaches and keep an eye over your right shoulder very now and then....
Been to the Manchester track a couple of times on tasters/friendlies , had a great time , bit scary at first but as mentioned the coaches will watch you and advise . If you want to use your own shoes you'll need Look style cleats and no "peaks" on helmets , take some track mits and a biddon for drink (its a very dry atmosphere) there is a fountain in the inner circle. Yes its steep , yes you'll be scared , yes you'll enjoy it , its a real buzz.
I did the taster at Manchester a couple of weeks ago and it was a hoot. I'll do it again when I get chance, especially if they start to run them at more convenient times.
Slightly intimidating to start with but I just kept to the same speed as more experienced riders, figuring that if they weren't sliding off then I wouldn't either... It's a bit like water skiing or surfing: getting up for the first time is hardest.
The coach was excellent. Just keep pedalling hard through the corners and you'll be fine.
Slightly intimidating to start with but I just kept to the same speed as more experienced riders, figuring that if they weren't sliding off then I wouldn't either... It's a bit like water skiing or surfing: getting up for the first time is hardest.
The coach was excellent. Just keep pedalling hard through the corners and you'll be fine.
Best days riding you will ever do! I loved it! First time was at Manchester and looking at the banking from the bottom I thought Id never get that high but was up there soon as. The instructors are great. 2nd time I went for the RAF track champs and did alright for myself, fastest MTBer on the track that year LOL.
nammynake said:
Thinking of attending one of these. Only costs a tenner. Has anyone done it? I ride MTB and road but still consider myself very much a beginner. Any tips or guidance regarding fitness required?
Thanks
I have had two sessions so far, here's my tips.Thanks
1. Listen to the coach
2. Technique will bring speed
3. Dont panic
4. Dont push back on the banking
5. Be aware of others
6. Have FUN, its awesome!
To Chicharito, The coach Bryan at Newport is very simpathetic to riders limits etc, I lost my colon to bowel cancer, so riding keeps me both fit and active, may even do a sprint triathlon in 2012, the club I belong to (VC10) books the track for half day blocks, so novice riders (me) get 20mins on 20mins off, just pace yourself and by the end you;ll be swooping up and down the banking like Chris Hoy. Bit like Indy car racing, its a lot more than just turning left !!!
Chicharito said:
Really tempted to go and try the Newport taster.
How fit do you have to be to do it?
I had a heart attack early this year, but train in the gym 4 times a week and recently ran a 5km charity run - so I'd say I'm a lot fitter than the average middle-aged bloke.
to be fair the coach at newport is really good and regardless of whether you haveyourown track bike or hire one, the emphasis is very much on riding discipline and technique rather than a balls out sprint. its not about fitness and stuff like that to be honest and you will find that if you get the technique sorted and are confident on the track, you can find yourself lapping quicker than fitter people...How fit do you have to be to do it?
I had a heart attack early this year, but train in the gym 4 times a week and recently ran a 5km charity run - so I'd say I'm a lot fitter than the average middle-aged bloke.
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