Bahnradsport

Bahnradsport, also known as track cycling, is a competitive cycling sport held on a velodrome, a specially constructed oval track with banked turns. The banking allows cyclists to achieve high speeds. Races are characterized by short distances, intense bursts of power, and strategic maneuvering. Velodromes can be made of wood, concrete, or asphalt, and their length can vary, commonly being 250 meters or 333.33 meters. Key disciplines include the sprint, where riders engage in tactical duels over short distances, often involving slow speeds initially before explosive acceleration. The keirin, originating from Japan, involves a paced start behind a derny (motorcycle) before a final sprint. The individual pursuit and team pursuit are timed races where riders or teams aim to cover a set distance in the fastest time or catch their opponents. The omnium is a multi-discipline event testing a variety of track cycling skills. Other events include the madison, a demanding team race with frequent baton exchanges, and the time trial. Bahnradsport demands exceptional aerobic capacity, anaerobic power, tactical intelligence, and bike handling skills. It is a prominent Olympic sport with a long history, showcasing incredible athleticism and speed.