Track bicycles are designed primarily for sports riding. The most serious competitions, famous bicycle races take place on such two-wheeled vehicles.
What does a track bike look like? The photos presented in the material will help determine the two-wheeled transport of this category.
Low landing, special geometry of the frame, the use of specific wheels, gear shifters and brake components - all this distinguishes a track sports bike from the usual models for all of us. Due to the narrow focus, it will be quite difficult for a beginner cyclist to use such a bike for ordinary, leisurely walks.
What is a track bike?
As already noted, track models differ from tourist, mountain and city bicycles intended for a trip to work. Let's look at the features of sports bikes:
- lightweight frame, wheels, low weight of the main components;
- steering wheel is mainly in the form of a ram's horn ;
- narrow rims and tire covers;
- a fork made of composite materials;
- lack of movable suspension.
Track Bike Frame
During the ride on sports models, riders have to stretch the body along the frame, which helps to improve aerodynamics. In this position, the responsibility for managing the bike increases. Added to this is the speed factor.
Modern budget models have mainly aluminum frames. However, such solutions are necessarily combined with a carbon front fork, which is reflected in a decrease in the overall weight of the bike.
A carbon fiber track bike allows you to experience better shock absorption when traveling. Due to the large labor costs for the production of such models are more expensive than aluminum. The level of comfort when riding here largely depends on the design of the frame and the habit of a particular fit. Therefore, do not make hasty decisions and unconditionally give preference to carbon fiber.
As for titanium frames, which combine the strength of steel and the lightness of carbon fiber, this material is still considered exotic. If not for the factor of high cost, manufacturers would certainly take it into service. However, based on the price, titanium frames are still available only to selected customers.
In general, if you want the most lightweight durable track bike, it is recommended to give preference to a carbon frame. When you need to get a speed bike to maintain good shape and ride for your own pleasure, it is enough to invest in an aluminum frame.
Wheels
Like a frame, the track wheels of a bicycle determine the ride quality and feel during movement. The choice of the lightest rims gives an increase in speed. Lightweight tires provide good handling and track sensitivity.
When purchasing the first track bike, you should give preference to the model on which the highest quality wheels are installed. Their cost in this category of bicycle transport is an impressive part of the total price of the bike. Therefore, reinstalling more advanced wheels over time can be even more expensive.
The size
The selection of bike parameters according to the characteristics of the physique is extremely important when choosing a track model. In no case should you buy a bicycle with a too large or miniature frame, focusing on more reasonable prices. Only correctly selected sizes will allow you to feel comfort while riding and fully enjoy the new hobby.
The frame parameters here are measured in centimeters. However, individual manufacturers may offer different measurement options. As a guideline, it is enough to use special tables, which indicate the correspondence of the frames to the anatomical parameters of the body. Ideally, it is better to be able to personally try on the bike by taking the correct fit.
Components
Currently, the market is dominated by several manufacturers of transmission elements and brake systems for track bicycles. These are, first of all, SRAM, Shimano and Campagnolo.
Beginners should focus on bicycles, which are equipped with products of the budget brand Shimano. In the case of SRAM and Campagnolo components, you can get improved performance and lighten the bike for a great price.
Stars
In track bicycles, the most common pair system of stars with 34 and 50 teeth. This option makes it easier to overcome the plots when the track abruptly goes uphill. Experienced riders prefer a system with sprockets of 53 and 39 teeth, which allows you to develop increased speed.
On track models, three stars are often installed. But most often they are replaced by more compact and lightweight systems that provide approximately the same speed range, while providing ease of use.
Eventually
When choosing a track bike, the main thing is not to rush into the purchase of the most complex model. Most of the functions will be useless when driving on domestic routes.
The development of your own riding style makes it possible in the future to approach in more detail the question of choosing the right model. At a certain stage, experienced riders order parts separately, which allows you to assemble the bike that will help achieve your goals.