Track Cycling - Mercier Kilo TT geometry for velodrome?

Does a Kilo TT have true track geometry? Does one run an extra risk of pedal strike if they use 170 cranks on the 53 cm sized bike? I need something for my local velodrome and I don't want to make any stupid newbie mistake here.

Garth

hi - i wanted to bump this thread, anyone out there ride a Kilo TT on the track? Thanks.

Sorry that nobody replies to any threads around here. Yeah, the Mecier has a good geometry for track racing, it's not a sprint geometry,a nd it's not a pursuit bike. It's set up more as an all-rounder than anything.
However, after racing a few times, I think you should consider some new componentry, like a light tubular wheelset, new cranks and new bars since the ones on it suck.

Thanks for the advice! Great point, I suppose it is more "all-around" than sprint or pursuit. Thanks!

i usually spend more of my time in SS/Fixed gear, but the mercier does fine on the track.

im from the SF bay area and have been to Hellyer Velodrome 2x with my kilo tt.

It has over 2600+ miles on it (on stock everything! ouch...hahahah) and is still holding up.
RUN IT TO THE GROUND

I know of another guy down south in the LA area who also takes his mercier to the local oval.

Recently finished building a used Kilo frame & have raced it a couple'a times at the DLV in Atl. Only problem I've found with it is a distinct lack of HORSEPOWER!!! I'm thinking of rigging up a sail for it... or maybe a grappling hook.

it's definitely not a sprinter's bike.

it has a lot of HP......for $350 shipped....


hehehehe

Nah - $75! I don't have any problem with the whole entry level / low buck philosophy, but I wanted to assemble mine with a little better componentry since it was to be strictly for the track.

Checked again last night... yep, she's still faster than me.
JB

"Track Geometry" as it is generally understood by marketing types, is generally just a few numbers and has little to do with what actually works.

(i.e. 74-75 degree angles square, minimized chainstay length and fork offset, minimally short head-tube, etc.)

Different tracks, with different lengths and bankings are optimized for different bikes and the "true track geometry" stuff pretty much only applies to a select few board tracks in Germany and Belgium.

Most American tracks, as few as there are, are longer and have shallower banking. In these instances, slacker angles and a longer wheelbase aren't a significant hindrance.

The Kilo TT's geometry is just fine for track racing. Just upgrade the wheels and the cranks.

I'm training / racing on my KHS (rebranded Kilo TT) frame. It works fine. Can't really complain... although I liked the way my Anchor rode the walls better. I'm just gonna use it for training though once the Concept is complete...

Most American tracks, as few as there are, are longer and have shallower banking. In these instances, slacker angles and a longer wheelbase aren't a significant hindrance.

The Kilo TT's geometry is just fine for track racing. Just upgrade the wheels and the cranks.

ah interesting - thanks!