Cycling FAQs

Cycle track

A round-up of FAQs, useful tips and interesting facts for your track cycling experience at the Arena.

If any of the questions do not answer your query, please contact Derby Arena on 01332 640011 or email derbyarena@derby.gov.uk.

How can I book & pay for my sessions?

We would encourage all cyclists to book and pay online or on the In Derby App. We will accept bookings on-site or over the phone. We would encourage any onsite bookings to be paid for by card rather than cash.

Even if we have been riding on other tracks since the arena track has been closed, do we still need to do a probationary session?

All returning riders will be re-assessed on their first session by the coach to ensure they can demonstrate the required skills to participate in accredited rider sessions.

I completed some of the Accreditation pathway, can I complete the process?

As all cyclists will not have ridden on the track for more than 6 months anyone within the accreditation process will be required to resume the pathway from the first stage.

I completed some of the accreditation, can I finish the process?

Due to the amount of time cycling has not been offered we are starting accreditation sessions again at 1 and 2. This will allow new riders or returning riders a suitable start point to bring their track skills back up to speed, We will be adding stages 3 and 4 at a later date.

Can I get changed and showered on-site?

Yes, our showers and changing rooms are open and available for use. 

When can I access the track?

Cyclists will enter the facility from the main entrance as normal and access the track through the glass doors in the café area. 

Can I fill my water bottle?

The water fountain on the Cycle D will be available to use to fill bottles only. The fountain must not be used to drink from directly.

Can I hire equipment?

Yes, you can hire equipment from reception on the day of your session. Alternatively, you can include hire when booking online.

What car parking do you have?

We have car parking facilities on-site, these are free to use for 3 hours if taking part in any activities at the facility. Simply put your reg into the car parking pods located within the cycling D. Any additional time on site is £3 for the day however we recommend vacating the facility after the session has finished.

For riders staying regularly for more than three hours, you can now apply for a free Cyclist Season Ticket permit. To apply visit the MiPermit website for more information, select buy digital permits, then season tickets. Or you can ask at reception for more advice. 

What clothing do I need to wear?

Don't worry about purchasing any professional clothing during your first sessions riding the track. It's essential that you stay safe and comfortable during your sessions. 

  • Helmets are required for all track cycling activities. Please note that no MTB peaks are allowed on your helmet. We do have helmets that can be used free of charge.
  • It's a good idea to wear two layers of clothing, especially on your top half. 
  • Padded cycle shorts would improve your comfort when riding the track, however, they are not essential.
  • Stay away from wearing loose clothing as it may get caught up on something. Similarly please ensure that all laces are tucked away in your shoes or socks.
  • All our bikes require clip in cycle shoes, which are available for hire in a range of sizes. We use Look Keo pedals for our bikes at the Arena, providing that your cleats are in good state of wear, you will be able to wear your own clip in shoes. 
  • We also recommend wearing gloves or track mitts for rider safety.
  • For safety reasons we would highly advise you wearing either clear or very light tinted sunglasses/glasses. 

How old do children need to be before they are allowed on the track?

For all sessions riders will have to be 12 years old or over and already be proficient cyclists. During the first sessions, children will also be introduced to track etiquette, which they will need to follow for health and safety reasons. Some school group activities are available for children from the age of 9.

I am riding my bike to Derby Arena, is there anywhere to leave it safely?

Yes, you will be able to lock your bike outside the Arena.

Please be advised that if you are riding with cleats you will either need to use cleat covers or have recessed cleats to gain entry to the reception and cafe area. Alternatively please bring a spare pair of shoes with you if you wish to walk around the Arena.

What time shall I arrive for my track session?

Please note all riders will need arrive for their session at least 30 minutes before the start of the session to ensure you get your equipment and yourself ready for the session. It is essential that you report to the cycling D at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the session to receive the safety briefing from the coach. Failure to do this may mean you miss the safety briefing and therefore are unable to take part in the session.

The safety and welfare of the group is paramount to Derby Arena, therefore anyone who doesn’t adhere to the coaches instructions and is putting the safety of themselves or others in danger will be asked to leave the track and will not be refunded for the session. 

Track bike storage

As a goodwill gesture, we are extending your bike storage hire by the length of time equivalent to the track being forced to close. You should receive communication by email indicating your new expiry date.

If you're looking for somewhere to store your bike safely then look no further, we have the perfect facility for it. Our cycle hub has secure storage units available for hire. By storing your bike and equipment with us you will avoid the hassle of transporting it back and forth for track sessions. Even more, this option will provide you with a peace of mind, knowing that you bike is safe. 

Can I ride my own bike on the track?

The Arena reserves the right to inspect your bike and equipment prior to use. Please ensure your bike is clean and meets the specification for the track. 

If your bike or equipment is not suitable for your activity, where possible, you will be able to hire a bike or equipment at an additional cost.

If you choose to use your own bike/equipment, you do so at your own risk and the Arena will not be liable for any damage or loss to it while it is at the Arena.

Helmets

Cycling helmets must be worn for all cycling activities. All helmets must meet the applicable British safety standard (currently BS EN 1078:1997).
Your helmet must not have a peak or anything attached to it if you are using the Velodrome track. 

Bike Specification

The specifications required for Derby Arena’s track are:
- only purpose made track bikes may be ridden on the velodrome track (road bikes can be ridden subject to approval for aerodynamic testing sessions)
- the bike must be in good condition and undamaged
- the bike must be the correct size for the rider
- a fixed wheel drivetrain
- 165mm (170mm for pursuit) cranks with 280mm (11”) or greater bottom bracket height (measured from floor to centre of bottom bracket)
- the frame must not have braze-ons or extraneous fittings
- the frame must have track ends
- tyres/tubulars must be in good condition
- tyres/tubulars must be 21-25mm wide
- tyres/tubulars must not have coloured tread
- tyres/tubulars must be cleaned before entering the track
- no dual compounds are permitted
- tyres/tubulars must be correctly inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications
- tubulars must be correctly glued and not taped
- new tyres/tubulars must be cleaned with white vinegar or isopropyl alcohol prior to use on the track
- the wheels must be of the same size front and rear
- the wheels must be spoked (not disc) for all taster and accreditation sessions
- the handlebars must be drop bars and have bar tape/grips and bar-ends (aerobars are permitted only in specific sessions)
- brake levers or callipers must not be fitted
- spare sprockets must not be fitted to double sided hubs
- quick release wheel axles are not permitted
- wheel axles should not extend beyond the track nuts
- mandatory gearing for all riders on taster sessions - 84” (47x15 or 50x16)
- the chain tension should be tight enough to avoid derailing but not so tight it ‘binds’ the drivetrain
- chain, sprocket and chainring should not be excessively worn
- devices such as bike computers or digital displays must not be visible to the rider whilst riding.

To make sure your track bike meets our track requirements, please get in touch with our cycle team in advance of your visit, by emailing derbyarena@derby.gov.uk.