Posted on Gary’s behalf (thought it deserved a thread of its own!): For those interested, our two local outdoor track leagues have started , with Wolverhampton being tonight (Wednesday) and Halesowen on Friday, both start at 7.00pm ( weather permitting ) Ewen intends to ride both, also this weekend are two enter on the line events, Darley Moor Sat, and Birmingham City Crits ( held on a trading estate at Solihull ) Sunday, all cat`s catered for.
You’ll have to have a track bike ( fixed wheel ) on a track league evening you`ll do typically four to five races, ( eight lap scratch, bunch sprints, points, devil, course de prime, handicaps, madison ets ) plenty to go at, and you’ll soon get to know the individual disciplines. Unlike a indoor velodrome you do not need accreditation, however, a “hard track” is very unforgiving if you land on it, so I would recommend you attend a few learner sessions to get used to the bunch before you race in anger ( no brakes don’t forget ).I know they run novice sessions at Aldersley ( will find out for you when ) and at Halesowen ( Doug Pinkerton, Thursday night ) get a few of these under your belt first and you’ll be ready for racing in the “B” league, you’ll go well !!
I plan to get involved in the Wolves league, but not next Weds as am already busy that evening. I am picking up one of the low cost fixies we have on offer at the mo’ and will run as both track bike (without brakes)and training bike (with front brake – takes under 60 sec to take off/on!). By happy chance Sam is also the same size so sounds like two for the price of one!!
Anyone else up for the track and sharing lifts etc?
I’d like to sort some sort of training session beforehand if I can, but not sure when to fit it in! If you are a 55.5 top tube and fancy a spin on my fixie to try out the whole concept just give me a shout
Are there BCF points for the races? Not that this should influence anyone of course…
I fancy doing a bit, but don’t know when I can fit it in! Prep for marmotte has to take priority, but I’m sure I could get a training ride in and perhaps look at a few events when the alps have been conquered… I hope!
Sounds good fun (again) so this is now on my radar.
Bill Webb (and Stockton Wheelers clan) are planning to ride the Wolves track this weekend (Sunday PM but depends on their itinerary at the centre) and very kindly have asked if any of the Epic RC or RT riders if they wish to make up some fun and games. Thanks for this Bill! I am planning to go up with Christian if the weather is OK for a light hearted rattle around on the geared bikes . . . . although I have ordered an economical fixie like Phil and may take that too!
All interested please give Bill a shout or contact the store for further info. See you there!
Charlie, and guys interested in track league racing, I spoke yesterday to Alan Cooper ( Wheelers chairman ) and told him of your interest in participation, he said beginers sessions are Monday nights at Aldersley ( tonight 8.00 – 9.00 ) everyone welcome, but you`ll have to take your own bike. This Wednesday both Simon and Stu Griff are, I believe joining Ewen.
Thanks for the info Gary – I can’t go tonight, but will be there next Monday evening if anyone fancies a lift. I will have a 55.5 top tubed fixie with me that I am more than happy to share…if time allows for bike swapping etc
economical fixie !………… “E” or spliff ?