The rules of the track.
Photo: Masa HiguchiTrack cycling looks chaotic and feels thrilling, but it runs on a small set of shared rules. Learn these and you'll fit right in — coaches and track monitors will walk you through all of them before you ride.
The golden rules
Helmet on, always
A helmet is required at all times on the track. No exceptions.
Keep pedaling, always
Keep momentum and light pressure on the pedals, even after a hard effort. Fixed-gear means the pedals keep turning — let them. Keep those legs spinning.
Ride predictably
Hold your line and avoid sudden movements. Predictable riders are safe riders.
Head on a swivel
Always shoulder-check before any lateral move. Know who's around you before you shift.
Pass on the right, and call it
Overtake on the right and communicate clearly. If you hear “STICK,” hold your line until it's safe to move.
Keep the track clear
Only stop in designated areas, like the railing for instructions. Then get riding again or take your bike off the rail.
Respect the speed zones
Fast riders stay below the blue line; pacelines run above it. Always be aware of what other riders and groups are doing.
No resting on the track
Tired after an effort? Stay high and keep pedaling until it's safe to come off. Don't stop on the racing surface.
Listen to monitors and coaches
They're on the track for one reason: to keep everyone safe. Follow their calls.
So how do you actually stop?
Once you've learned to get on and off the track, stopping is straightforward. You ease off your effort, drift down to a safe spot, and apply gentle back-pressure to the pedals — called backpedaling — to slow to a controlled stop. Your coach teaches this before you ever need it.