Alpenrose Velodrome now has smooth straightaways (photos)

Non-racer types have always been able to give it a spin, as long as there are no races or schedule practice sessions going on.

Riding on the Alpenrose Velodrome is one of the funnest things anybody could ever do. It takes you a little while to “unlearn” the natural tendency to lean into turns at slower speeds (you’ll slide down the track if you are going too slow), but once you “get up to speed” there is nothing like the rush of screaming around those turns at high speed. And don’t forget, you can rent track bikes there and learn how to do it in a formal lesson.

There are introductory classes held from April 25 – August 29 (no class June 27 and July 4) every Wednesday evening (weather permitting). There is also a ladies only introductory class on April 29th. The cost last year was $10 if I remember correctly which includes a rental bike. You’ll learn how to navigate on and off the track, the different parts of the track and how to ride on the 43 degree banking. You can go to http://www.obra.org/track/information/index.html for more information.

After that, if you are feeling competitive, come out to a Fast Twitch Friday and compete with other beginners in a three race omninum (seperate groups for men and women).

It’s an exhilarting experience the first time you make it around on the banking!