Road Cycling - Trackstanding

Hi there,

I am about to get my new road bike (can't wait) and was wondering if some of you out there could pass on some knowledge on the finer points of "trackstanding"?

I used to ride with a mate that could do it, and at lights he would leave me for dead while I ginned about like an old mole at a christening trying to get clipped back in and take off again.

Any thoughts?

Try this link. (http://draco.acs.uci.edu/rbfaq/FAQ/9.16.html)

Easy way to learn.
First find a slight upslope. DO NOT CLIP IN. Use tennis shoes on your pedals.
Point the bike up slope and pedal up hill very slowly, then come to a stop, if you start to fall pedal up the hill somemore then stop again. Let gravity pull you back down the hill and pedal against it.
Don't practice to much(ten/fifteen minutes) or you will get fed up. You should get the hang of it in a few days, then you just keep practicing.

Thanks guys, will try it out when I get the new bike.

1. As mentioned, wear "regular" shoes - like runners, tennis shoes, etc. so that you don't get stuck in and fall over.

2. Find an area of smooth pavement, probably a slight uphill is best.

3. Roll the bike in and *very* slowly apply the brakes. Your hands should be on the brake hoods.

4. As the bike gently comes to a rest, drop your left foot down. Turn the bars to the right slightly and let the bike come to a stop. The exact angle is hard to describe - not sharp, but enough that it is noticeable.

5. When the bike is just coming to a rest and the bars are turned, allow the bike to lean right (into the lean). Apply pressure to your left pedal and move your body weight to the left.

6. Keep the brakes on and try to find the "sweet spot" where the bike is balanced and will rest. At first you'll be nearly standing up, but over time you should be able to work your way closer to a sit.

7. Do not let go of the brakes until you are ready to push on the pedal and roll forward, or you will fall!

Most of this is common sense, but most people don't llean the bike and turn the bars, which is a much more stable position than "straight". It takes a ton of practice and can be frustrating at first, but is an excellent skill to have at those traffic lights and even a race start if you're good enough.

Stay loose and relaxed. Don't think about falling over, or you will. Lean around and try different positions until you find what works. Don't make any sudden movements or you'll throw off the balance. I find that it works best to look ahead and away from the bike, instead of at the bars or wheels. The farther away I look and the more I relax - the longer I can go for.

Good luck!
Mike

Thanks Mike,

Five more sleeps until the new bike!!!

what meltable said :beer:

Some useful links & discussion over at the fixed gear forum, too.