Herne Hill Velodrome Track Taster Session

Velodrome cycling has always been a highlight of the Olympics for me so I’ve been itching to have a go. That said, the thought of coming off the bike on the high banked curves or crashing due to the fixed wheel and lack of brakes has scared me off trying. So the chance to try a track taster session at Herne Hill Velodrome was both exciting yet scary at the same time.

I needn’t have worried. Fran, Tom, Helga, Andrew and I from De Ver alongside another new velodrome rider were shown the ropes by our instructor who also delighted in telling us the history of the velodrome, naming some of the famous riders who have graced the circuit over the years.

We were soon gaining confidence on the De Ver Cycles sponsored bikes and learning the etiquette of riding close together on a track. At first he told us to ride an elephant length apart, a hippo through smaller animals until he shouted “Now a Peckham rat” to get us closer and closer together until we were almost touching wheels.

I needn’t have worried about the banking or lack of brakes. It all feels really natural once you get into it. I’d be terrified on one of those bikes on Ide Hill but they feel great on a velodrome.

After the taster session, future skills sessions would quickly bring a new track cyclist up to the level where you can gain full race accreditation. Rides take place all year, rain or shine. I’m tempted to take the next step.

Martin