9 replies to this topic Post Order

[Richard Best]

Im watching the men's sprint (Olympics), and I have no idea what's going on. They seem to ride around at a snail pace watching each other, and then seemingly at a random point they suddenly pull off.

Can you explain it to me?

[Escapee..]

I think its three laps. But they only really start racing just before the last lap

Rest is just a bit of fun and games

[Eugene]

Was also wondering about the motorbike. They cycle at a snail's pace behind this funnily dressed oak on a m/bike for a few laps. He pulls off and they start racing. What's the point? Why not shorten the race and just race each other from scratch?

Edited by Eugene, 05 August 2012 - 06:08 .

[Super J]

Its all about tactics,jump and power,and that little "help my trap", its called a Derny!! If you ever in Belguim, spend a day at the track,its awesome,food,booze and an electric atmoshere!! M$akes Blue bull supporters look like school boys!!

[Leg breaker]

Eugene, on 05 August 2012 - 06:06 , said:

Was also wondering about the motorbike. They cycle at a snail's pace behind this funnily dressed oak on a m/bike for a few laps. He pulls off and they start racing. What's the point? Why not shorten the race and just race each other from scratch?

The bike keeps the group together, it also goes quite fast. Around 65kph+/- In the mens race

[udxcob]

Jeez his the size of that auzzies thighs (number 50)

[Richard Best]

Yea, what's with the derny?
Why keep the group together if some are faster than others.

Is it all just about making everybody get moeg and then see who sprints faster at the end?

All seems very silly.

[Chro Mo]

Track racing is all about tradition and history. It still is the purest form of racing.
No gears, no brakes - just muscle and speed.

The derny winds up the pace slowly until the last part of the race in the Keirin, whereupon the racers begin in earnest. Think of a fying start.
This form of racing is the most [popular form in Japan, where it originated.

The men's sprint is 3 laps (1km), and the racers can go hard from the outset, and some have won this way by surprising their opponent.
Most will go very slowly, trying to force their opponent to lead them out, then jump over the top of them, onc the sprint has opened up.

[Chro Mo]

If you have ridden on a track, you will understand.
It's an amazing feeling, and the speed generated by these guys and gals is amazing.

[javadude]

I'll never get tired of this video. Track racing is huge in Europe, especially the six days events: