= 110 % FUN!

On the 25^th of January and the 8^th of February, I had some of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences a cyclist can enjoy.  I rode a single speed bicycle with no freewheel or brakes around the Encino Velodrome.  I was more than pleasantly surprised.  Many people expressed fear of the tracks banked turns, but that’s not what I was worried about.  I feared a boring experience. I couldn’t have been farther off base. Once Track Etiquette and initial coaching were taken care of by USCF Elite Level Coach David Tonello, and Track Manager and coach Steve Coleman, the fun began. Just warming up on the track is a hoot. You quickly learn what bike control really is. Pedaling efficiency immediately improves; you are the brakes as well as the power plant. Inexperience was another concern that was quickly put to rest. The gracious and patient coaching of David, Lisa, and Steve put everyone at ease. There was no pressure to try anything you were uncomfortable with, but if you didn’t try the Standing Start 500, Flying 200, and the Matched Sprints, you really missed out! The knowledge passed on is directly applicable to all disciplines of cycling and is greatly appreciated. No matter what your cycling ability, you will enjoy the Track. If you ever get the chance to ride a Velodrome, please don’t miss it! What amazed me was the fact that the National level coaching, Velodrome rental for the whole day, Track Bikes, and even lunch were provided by the Bike Barn at no charge to their customers. Please forgive me for sounding like a commercial, but I never realized the intangible benefits of supporting a shop that is completely involved in all aspects of our sport, and so willing give so much back to us.

Thanks for an amazing experience, David and Lisa, unnamed muscles that I never knew I had are wonderfully sore!

Rob Goodenough

Tailwinds Bicycle Club