Before getting on the track:
A few simple rules that make everyone ís day a little safer. The primary rule is to always look where you are going and know where other riders are and how fast they are going. Riders at speed can cover half the track in under 8 seconds so watch out. Once down to the infield (never cross the track during a race) test out your bike on the apron (during general warm-up) or warm-up circle (during a race) before going on the track. This means making sure your front wheel is well attached, rear cog will not come loose, handle bars and seat are in tight, all other parts are attached and your bike feels ok.
Warming up before a race:
Once you get ready to get on the track during general warm-up take a few laps on the apron first. Then look across the track to see who might be getting ready to do a fast lap then look over you right shoulder and if it is clear go up track to above or near the blue line. Remember to keep your arms loose, try not to death-grip the bars and look beyond the wheel in front of you when riding on the track (These all help reduce the chance that you will over-react to a situation). You should always enter and leave the track at the start of the straights to give yourself time to get up to speed and slow down. Only if you want to get up to speed or get in a pace line should you venture down near the black line. The red line to the blue line is usually reserved for riders who are passing or pulling off of pacelines so try to keep above or at the blue line when going slower on the track, or just ride on the apron.
Never go very slow (under 15 mph) while warming up as you could slide down track taking out a paceline or two along the way. Listen for things like ìstayî, ìstickî or ìholdî, and donít go up track if you hear this even if it is your turn to pull up track. While faster riders do get the sprinters lane it is the rider who is passing that needs to pay attention and go around the slower riders who are also in the sprinters lane. Remember the important thing is to be aware, ride a straight line and look first. If there is a crash or mishap, the riders involved will ìuseî gravity and go down track, so you should always attempt to ride above them and go up track. Riders with a mishap should head towards the apron or infield. Never go up track as you could slide off the track when you slow.
During a Race:
Attempt to ride as close to the main group as you feel possible. Remember that the sprinters lane (between the black and red at the bottom) is the fastest line, so use it when possible, especially if off-the-back. It is fine to pass around the top or underneath as long as you have room. (You may not pass underneath riders that are already in the sprinterís lane, below the red line.) Always give yourself room when passing as other riders may choose to pass at the same time and may not notice you from behind. When being passed by faster riders always hold your line. While it is better to be high on the track when the group passes, both to allow the faster riders to race and give you a chance to use gravity to get back up to speed, do not attempt to go up track at the last second and make the faster group go even higher to try and pass. As long as you pay attention to the other riders you should be fine.
The basic rules always apply. Communication is important. Always let people know anytime you are doing something that may catch everyone else by surprise. You must always wear a helmet whenever you are on your bike at the track. Do not try to ride the track when wet, you will fall. Dogs must be on a leash at all times. No swearing. Have fun. Play hard. Smile big.
Rules
- The velodrome is open for riding during daylight hours when there are no other scheduled sessions.
- During scheduled sessions there will be an established program that will be set by the individual or group that has scheduled the session. Riders on the track during those sessions will adhere to this program and follow the direction of the person in charge of the session. Riders that do not follow the program and/or do not follow direction will be asked to leave the velodrome until the session is completed.
- Riders must wear helmets while riding on the track.
- Riders must always ride in a counterclockwise direction.
- Track bikes will generally be used. Road bikes may be used for specific sessions but will not be ridden while track bikes are on the track. Mountain bikes, BMX bikes or other types of bicycles will not be used.
- Motorized vehicles are only to be used with prior permission for specific motor paced events.
- Skates and skateboards are not to be used on the track surface.
- Minors must always have adult supervision.
- Glass containers are forbidden.
- Climbing on the track rails or sliding down the track surface is prohibited.