Track Class FAQ
You need to take a Track Class offered from the Marymoor Velodrome Association. Classes [need to attach hyperlink to correct page] are offered throughout the spring and summer. You will learn how to ride a track bike, and even better, you will work on and improve your bike handling skills.
Can I go to the Velodrome and just ride on my road bike?
It’s very fun to ride your road bike on the track, but that’s not quite as exciting as riding on a track bike. The track is open for public use anytime there The Group Health Velodrome is open to the community for public use except during scheduled events (classes, training sessions, races, etc.). No experience or special bicycles are needed, but the rules of the facility must be followed: bicycles only are allowed on the track (skateboards and motorized vehicles are prohibited); track bikes have right-of-way; all riding must be in a counter-clockwise direction; helmets are required; do not ride on the track when the track is wet; keep the track surface clean. Have fun and be safe!
Why should I ride on the track?
The track is a great way to improve your bike handling skills, your spin, your sprint, and to work on increasing your overall speed. It’s also a fun and different way to enjoy two-wheeled motion!
Track bikes don’t have brakes, so how do you stop?
Part of learning to ride a track bike is learning how to stop. Stopping is done simply by slowly reducing the force you are putting on the pedals to move forward. As you slow down your pedaling, you will be able to come to almost a complete stop. Then, you can either grab the railing or release from your pedal and land onto the infield grass or warm up circle.
What if I don’t have a track bike?
When you enroll in an MVA Track Class [need to attach hyperlink to correct page], you will be fit onto one of the MVA track bikes. The MVA has a container full of track bikes available on loan to students in the classes. You can also rent one of these track bikes for Tuesday training sessions or Monday and Wednesday night racing.
Will I need to get a license to do track racing?
If you have a USCF license for road racing, you can use that license to race on the track. However, it is possible to be classified in different racing categories on the track than on the road. Upgrading your track category is based on your track racing results only. If you do not have a USCF license, you can purchase a 2007 racing license at USA Cycling.
How long is a track race?
An evening or day of track racing usually includes 4 to 5 different events. An event can be as short as 1 lap to as long as 60 laps. A typical night of racing is calculated based on number of laps a group will be doing. Wednesday night racing typically has about 30 to 35 total laps per group. As the summer days get longer and major competitions on the calendar get closer, some race groups may include more laps.
When does the Track Racing happen?
Riding on the Velodrome is done only in dry weather. So, training typically starts at the beginning of March (weather permitting) and racing starts mid-May and lasts through early September. Any dry day throughout the year will usually see some riders on the track riding or training.