What's the difference between a road and a track bike?

You may have guessed looking at a track bike that there isn't much to it but behind the simplicity, lies a lot of technological advances in the types of material used for the different parts such as the frames and wheels.

KEY POINTS ABOUT A TRACK BIKE
No Brakes: Riders back pedal to slow down - just make sure you have that rear sprocket on tight or a lock ring on it.

No Gears: The bikes only have one gear and there is no freewheel. In other words, you can't stop pedalling! Riders will keep a stock of chain rings and rear wheel sprockets to set the correct gear for specific events and tracks. To change a gear you either change one or both of the rear sprockets and chain rings. To change a rear sprocket, you'll need a "chain whip" and to remove the chain rings, an Allen key. If unsure what tools you will need for your specific equipment, see your favourite bike retailer (www.donvalleycycles.com) to help you choose the appropriate tools to change gear ratios.

 

(Copyright British Cycling - www.britishcycling.org.uk)