Track Cycling: Velodrome Racing and Training Area - New to track-racing.. suggestions?

Hi everyone! This is my first post to Bike Forums, and I have a few questions.

After riding fixed in the streets for about a year, I'm excited about getting into track racing this season. I'm riding a KHS Flite100 right now, all stock except for bullhorn bars, fenders, and brake.

My intent, before racing, is to remove the fenders, replace the saddle with a Brooks B17 (breathability/road vibration dampening/cool factor), and swap my bars/brake out with some drops to get it ready for the 'drome. I've actually just ordered the bars and saddle from QBP, and should have them Thursday.

So altogether, I'll be using:
KHS flite, all stock with CroMo Nitto bars
Older Dura Ace look-patent pedals, and new Shimano road shoes
Performance shorts
Castelli jersey
Either a leather hairnet or Giro Monza helmet, whichever will work
Wraparound cycling glasses

So, I'm wondering what I should invest in to get me through the season. Anything that comes to mind.. clothing, bike upgrades, nutrition, basic riding/training advice. I'm not intent on winning any races as of yet. I'm more concerned about getting in shape and growing accustomed to riding Track. I've heard suggestions concerning getting bibs or a skinsuit, but I'm not sure about the suit thing as of yet. I'm spinning nightly, and I also work at a bike shop, so even though money is a concern, I can afford some stuff.

Thanks in advance for all of your help!

Don't know of many Velodromes that will let you ride with a hairnet style helmet, best to wear a proper microshell especially if your new to it.

Find some straps to fit around those pedals it's a lot worse pulling your foot on the Track than on the road.

I'll check with the people who run the track. It's the Ed Rudolph Velodrome in Northbrook, IL that I'll be commuting to.

I've been told to get double straps and/or keywin pedals, but almost all of my coworkers and such have told me that looks or speedplays will do the job if properly tightened. Is it possible or practical to fit look pedals with straps, or would it require track specific pedals?

Thanks!

I am new to track racing this season too. At age 48 am too old to be really competetive, but can't resist the rush of the track and the fixed gear bike. I am restoring a used track bike and dialing in the gear ratio for my slower spin speed.
This winter I have been hitting the weights. There are plenty of artlicles regarding weight training for bikes, but the one I have been using is from the other forums home page under training. I feel more power as I return to the road, but have not gone to the track yet. You won't really develop endurance from weight training, so it's good to ride the stationary bike after your workout to "translate" your new power to the bike. Remember to eat enough protein to support your muscle gains!

I'll check with the people who run the track. It's the Ed Rudolph Velodrome in Northbrook, IL that I'll be commuting to.

I've been told to get double straps and/or keywin pedals, but almost all of my coworkers and such have told me that looks or speedplays will do the job if properly tightened. Is it possible or practical to fit look pedals with straps, or would it require track specific pedals?

Thanks!
Hi Devious Golden... Just make sure you're securely fastened to the pedals. The more powerful you are, and the more you sprint- the more you'll rely on that retention. SPDs or cheap plastic toe clips are fine for beginning... You'll know when you'll need to upgrade.
If you're using clipless (Look especially ), you'll want to make sure your cleats are in good shape and the retention mechanism is strong and working well.

As far as hairnets... Aye, we all love 'em in the movies and on the street... But the safety-based rules at the track are very strict. Although crashes on the track are not as common as in criteriums, officials keep a sharp eye out for concerns.

Otherwise- Welcome to the racing side! A lot of new people are going to be checking out Northbrook this season and it'll be a fun Summer! The track has fresh pavement and new programming... Spring High School Program and Collegiate Nationals in the Fall! Good times Brothers and Sisters!

haha, is this Marcus?

If so, my buddy Scott just started working for you. We worked together at Performance, but I'm moving to Johnny Sprockets later this month.

I've been meaning to stop by and see you guys. I need to look at your Keirin grips, and check out some of the dope bikes you have there.

Thanks for the advice!
Devin

haha, is this Marcus?
Yes.


I've been meaning to stop by and see you guys. I need to look at your Keirin grips, and check out some of the dope bikes you have there.
Devin
Bring it on DG!

Oh- talking about keirin grips... I have about 20 different colors in stock right now. hot s.

I'm also planning on racing this year as well, it too being my first season. I have a '04 pista on layaway and should have it ready to go by the end of April. I was suggested to get a set of tubulars specifically for the track, which will be pretty expensive. I just want to have fun. Good luck down there!

I'm also planning on racing this year as well, it too being my first season. I have a '04 pista on layaway and should have it ready to go by the end of April. I was suggested to get a set of tubulars specifically for the track, which will be pretty expensive. I just want to have fun. Good luck down there!
Hey Andrew, Don't worry about getting expensive tubulars for starting on the track. Many people race on clinchers. Just get out there and start working on technique and strategy... And start meeting the trackies. When (if) you want to upgrade your wheels- used tubular rims can be found everywhere. How many people you know buy used track bikes and instantly get rid of the tubulars the bikes came with? Good deals are all over- either as rims or complete wheels. Once you start hanging out at the track- you'll meet folks upgrading their wheels and getting rid of their old ones at a great deal. Just make sure the tires are in good shape and the glue job is recent.
Most bike shops that deal with messengers or street fixed riders are throwing out old (but good) tubular rims. Check with some of your shops around town.

Thanks for the info.

I'm starting an unofficial collection of tubular rims that other rider friends just want to get rid of so they give them to me. So far I got a pair of 32h Mavic Monthlery Pros (that look alot like MA2s) and today I scored some 36h gold Fiammes. You never know, they might be in demand someday!

hey, you guys should check out the tufo tubular clincher tires, its a tubular tire, but with beads so it works on a clincher rim. nashbar has them on sale right now, for like 33 a tire, i just ordered 2 today, i'll update on how they roll!

hey, you guys should check out the tufo tubular clincher tires, its a tubular tire, but with beads so it works on a clincher rim. nashbar has them on sale right now, for like 33 a tire, i just ordered 2 today, i'll update on how they roll!

definitely the newest product out that has caught my curious attention. please update.
As far as track racing goes, I'd definitely infest in some sort of knickers or bib type shorts. Any loose clothing will make the other riders nervous as well as create some serious wind drag on windy days.