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Track Wheels - In search of top speed
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Track bike wheels are specifically designed for peak performance in velodromes. The main questions surrounding these wheels concern their aerodynamics, the stiffness required for sprints, the best rim size and width for top performance, manufacturing materials, the suitability of disc wheels for competition, and spoke tension management. Other common questions include the choice between fixed and freewheel setups, the impact of spoke count on speed, and best maintenance practices.
FAQ
In the competitive environment of velodromes, every fraction of a second counts. The aerodynamics of the wheels reduce air resistance, allowing the cyclist to reach higher speeds with less effort. Profiled rims, as well as solid wheels with lenticular flanges, are often preferred to minimize this resistance and optimize speed.
Stiffness plays a crucial role, especially during explosive sprints. A stiff wheel efficiently transfers pedaling power to the track without energy loss due to wheel flex. This allows for rapid acceleration and the maintenance of speed. Materials such as carbon are often chosen for their combination of stiffness and lightness.
On velodromes, bikes are equipped with fixed-gear wheels, which means the pedals are always moving as long as the wheel is turning. This setup gives the rider total control, allowing for quick speed adjustments and a better connection with the bike. The freewheel, on the other hand, allows the pedals to remain stationary even when the wheel is moving, but this feature is not preferred in track cycling.
In the competitive environment of velodromes, every fraction of a second counts. The aerodynamics of the wheels reduce air resistance, allowing the rider to reach higher speeds with less effort. Profiled rims, as well as solid wheels with lenticular discs, are often favored to minimize drag and maximize speed.
Stiffness plays a crucial role, especially during explosive sprints. A stiff wheel efficiently transfers pedaling power to the track, minimizing energy loss caused by wheel flex. This results in faster acceleration and better speed maintenance. Materials such as carbon are often chosen for their ideal combination of stiffness and lightness.
On velodromes, bikes are equipped with fixed-gear wheels, meaning the pedals keep moving as long as the wheel is turning. This setup gives the rider full control, allowing quick speed adjustments and a stronger sense of connection with the bike. A freewheel, on the other hand, allows the pedals to remain stationary while the wheel is still moving — but this feature is not favored in the track environment.
It depends on the event and the rules (UCI/organizer). Some setups are allowed under certain conditions, while others are not, depending on the discipline. The right thing to do: check the race/velodrome rules before showing up with a “full aero” setup.
- iO: prioritizes time trial/speed, aerodynamics + stiffness (5-spoke, NACA profiles).
- Comète Track: “ultimate aero” design and speed retention (convex lenticular, dedicated carbon structure).
- Ellipse: regular training + racing, a robust and practical solution (welded Maxtal aluminum, flip-flop).
On the track, many setups typically use 9x100 at the front and 9x120 at the rear. The iO and Comète Track product pages list these axle sizes (front 9x100; Comète rear 9x120). Always check compatibility with your frame/fork before purchasing.
The flip-flop allows you to mount two sprockets (two gears) and quickly switch from one to the other: very useful when you’re alternating exercises (start-stop, pursuit, sprint) or when you’re sharing the track with riders of different skill levels.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer: the right pressure depends on the tube/tire, your weight, the type of track (surface), and your goal (performance vs. comfort).
The rule of thumb: stick to the manufacturer’s maximum pressure, then fine-tune it to get a “responsive” wheel with no wobble or bounce.
Simple check: lift the wheel off the ground, spin it—listen for noises, feel for roughness, and check for play. The Mavic wheels mentioned here feature QRM / QRM+ cartridge bearings: when a wheel starts to lose its smoothness, this is often the first thing to check.
In 2 minutes:
- axle bolts/nuts tight,
- tire/tubular properly seated + correct pressure,
- nothing rubbing (brake pads/calipers if present on certain training setups),
- wheel perfectly centered,
- cogwheel secured/tightened (sprocket + lockring), especially on fixed-gear bikes.