About Cycle Speedway

Get into Cycle Speedway | Get into Cycle Sport Home

Cycle Speedway is a unique branch of cycle sport. In this introduction to the sport, we look at how it works, but don't forget to visit our Get into Cycle Speedway page, including a Video introduction to the sport for more on taking part.

Short & Sharp: Cycle Speedway must be a contender for the title of most intense cycle sport. Races are short - usually four laps of an outdoor 70-90 metre circuit, lasting around 35-40 seconds - and physical contact is both legal and often necessary. Four riders contest a race, usually in pairs from opposing clubs.

Team Sport: Cycle Speedway is essentially a club sport, with inter-club matches within leagues the mainstay of the sport. Each match normally consists of between sixteen and twenty races! There are also individual championships, including a World Championship and some inter-country series, including regular "Ashes" contests between England and Australia.

The Riders: Top riders are explosive sprinters - but they also have stamina to enable them to keep going through a long match. Skill levels are high with slick starting, cornering and passing techniques essential. Strength is also required during contact with other riders.

The Bikes: Cycle Speedway Bikes are as simple as BMX or Track bikes - there are no gears, brakes, brackets, quick-release fittings, etc. Frames are often converted from mountain-bikes. Clothing is pretty conservative - riders are required to cover themselves from the neck down to protect against falls - and, of course, a helmet must be worn. Contact is expected, so many riders wear additional protection such as knee, elbow and hip pads.