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@Manc_Ronnie
A few of you are probably wondering which kit and gearing you should run at the Red Bull Mini Drome, or even what it is like to ride something that small. Neil from Charge Bikes who qualified 5th and finished in the top 8 has kindly put together some useful hints and tips as a step in the right direction.
Do:
• Ride a gear ratio/size of around 71”. I used a 42T front and 16T rear. If you are not sure of your gear inches then use this site as a guide.
• Use a stiff fork, stem, wide handlebar and wheel combination. The tight turns put a lot of strain on the front of the bike.
• Look at your line on the track, do not even attempt to look at the crowd till you stop
• Set your saddle fairly low but still high enough for you to get some power down
• Run your tyres quite hard for extra speed
• Attach your feet firmly to the pedals with clips or straps
• Aim for the fastest start you can, this will make all the difference. “It’s easier to chase than be chased”.
• Take your time to slow down, you will be a little dizzy and wobbly
• Wear a helmet
• Drink a can of Red Bull a few minutes before you start
Don’t:
• Use silly narrow bars, you’re not dodging traffic here. These do not provide enough leverage to get round the bends. Wrists aren’t that strong.
• Use a spinny gear, you will get caught in no time.
• Use a big gear, you will not get up enough speed in the Mini Drome unless you’re Chris Akrigg.
• Have flat tyres
• Use gears, that’s cheating.
• Look at your mates when riding the track, you will end up flying off the side.
• Skid across the track to stop
• Forget to drink Red Bull before you start
Riding the Mini Drome is like a constant berm. You need to keep a rhythm and concentrate on your line. The red line is the one to follow so don’t get distracted. If you go near the edge, don’t look down! Keep looking at the line and you will get back on course. Accelerate only on the straights, you will have 1 - 2 pedals before another turn. Lift your bum slightly and pump into the turn with your body weight to sustain momentum. When catching someone keep looking at them, the dizziness will stop and give you the will to push harder.
Those are the tips I can recommend for now from my experience at the London event. It was a case of learning quickly and making a few mistakes along the way.
Be sure to let others know your tips too! Have a good race! (But not too good, eh? I’m racing too!)
Neil Cousins
www.chargebikes.com