GCN Track Cycling Challenge | Velodrome Rookies Try The Kilo!

[@gcn]

Have you ever ridden on the track? Let us know in the comments below!

[@JMise]

I have over a hundred kilos under my belt, never ridden on the track, though :)

[@madmonkeycycling9098]

Yes, my best kilo time was 1m06, I was however also afraid of the bankings and quit

[@DarenC]

Only ridden the track once, at Manchester. Was huge fun, although I nearly stacked it when I went for a sprint then stopped pedalling as I crossed the line. Bike didn't agree. Not as hard on the arms as the BMX track next door. :D

[@nzmarty]

Yup. Live in Cambridge NZ where we have a track identical to Manchester. Coach and ride at the track all the time have 5 hrs there tomoro actually!!!

[@gillbrown4077]

Manchester once I'm a scared of heights woss

[@SSEF15]

Conor: Aero helmet and aero gloves Also Conor: GoPro sticking off the stem

[@ChrClausen]

GoPro needs to make an aero casing.

[@JThelen1031]

Also also Connor: being Connor.

[@birdiessimracing]

also aero glasses

[@thelonesculler]

"None of the other GCN presenters really have done much on the track before" Oliver Bridgewood: *Am I a joke to you?*

[@mahiru20ten]

James Lowsley-Williams: *Do you forget me?*

[@sprightlyrandom1550]

@@mahiru20ten probably wishes people would forget hahaha

[@deabreu.tattoo]

Hank: *Does time on a penny-farthing count?*

[@cypercharged]

@@deabreu.tattoo that was indeed a painful one!

[@kylehagertybanana]

unfortunately ollie is a joke to them sometimes

[@julienbouillot6960]

It was so cool to see Manon in her element and to see Connor genuinely being frightened. Really enjoyed that vid!

[@kishascape]

That was nice how they helped him see it was fine. I’m still terrified of the top of the track.

[@jang0001]

Wow, Manon’s bike is supernice

[@jonshepherd5906]

I think the most impressive thing was that they found a track bike that fit Conor.

[@Arthur-mh2uo]

Hilarious seeing Manon tell off Conor for not listening

[@nzmarty]

‘It looks steeper but it isn’t - it’s just a longer way to fall’. That’s exactly what I tell my students!!!

[@karlwalters3763]

Exactly what my coach said in my first day! It does take a while to get used to it though:-)

[@lexington476]

All I picture is wood burn road rash as I slide down the embankment 🙂.

[@lexington476]

@MRGRUMPY53 yes, despite it being very well polish and smooth somehow I would get slivers... Oh this is making my skin crawl typing this 🙂.

[@lexington476]

@MRGRUMPY53 ...and then two weeks later I would get a bill for damaging the wood 😊😉🙃.

[@lexington476]

@MRGRUMPY53 😶

[@VradTP]

Sad that we didn't see Manon's 1k

[@paulfaulkner6299]

I reckon she'd likely be around 1:35 or so

[@MggW]

I agree! Come on GCN!!

[@JSON1C]

@@BartKestelyn hard to compare, pursuit is done on time trial bars

[@mrvwbug4423]

@@BartKestelyn Means she could probably push close to the 1min mark for a 1km, especially with her probably being able to push 800+ watts for the final lap, probably even more than that when she was still racing professionally.

[@byrondixon4648]

Yes! I was so hoping to see Manon's 1k too.

[@belap7131]

The Jolley Green Giant and the Dragon Queen 😀

[@SirPhillyLeong]

Manon was having way too much fun.

[@gcn]

Not so much Conor at the end there...

[@marekholub8668]

@@gcn Why doesn't Manon do any GMBN crossovers?

[@ipikture]

Manon, first I wish they'd up the woman's from 500 to 1k. And match the woman's team Sprint to the men's with 3 riders. There's no reason this day and age. So after that do you have a time for your 1K? I'm guessing close to 1 minute.

[@ssenssel]

​@@marekholub8668 I don't think she's ever done it and would be surprised she ever will.. She couldn't bunny hop over a stick on the ground on a Gravel bike. She also hated her Gravel competition experience a few months back. She should stick to roads and tracks where she belongs.

[@danielinducil3824]

Manon's track bike check would be superb!

[@richnerd8757]

I am all for some more track content! I’d love a few episodes walking through all the different disciplines within track cycling to start with, and maybe an episode on the training regiment for most track cyclists!

[@karlwalters3763]

Yes, agree!

[@noviceofthelaw]

More track pls. I was hoping to see Manon's 1k.

[@ScottyWoodworker]

More track content! Presenter challenge: Si vs 4 person Team Pursuit!

[@timclark4931]

Brilliant!

[@chrisridesbicycles]

„I don‘t know if the ceiling is high enough“ 😂 We have a new king of excuses.

[@sgroadie6367]

I thought Manon would have a go at it too! And she has the nice bike!

[@nigeldepledge3790]

Yeah, I was wondering what her kilometre time is, too.

[@nigeldepledge3790]

I tried looking up her km time on the Internet, but it's beyond my google-fu.

[@mrvwbug4423]

@@nigeldepledge3790 someone else posted a result for her 3KM time of 3:33 from back when she was racing, which is an average of 1:11/km, so she'd probably be a bit faster than that for 1KM, especially with her sprint power.

[@oldanslo]

@@nigeldepledge3790 The women's event is a 500m TT.

[@nigeldepledge3790]

@@mrvwbug4423 - that's cool, thanks.

[@jamestuazon6414]

Finally something about fixed gear/track bikes!! 😁

[@dvs620]

No talk about tech, components, power numbers or grade on a hill climb. Just, "Here's your bike. Go do this thing." Simple, just like fixed gear bikes. More of this, both track and road/race videos.

[@dpw6900]

Manon has been an absolutely amazing addition to the team. She needs to bring her unique perspective to more challenges.

[@luukrutten1295]

Track cycling is great. I still remember my first time in Amsterdam Sloten (200m 47degree banking), so a bloody steep track too. So i can relate to the initial feelings of fear. Advice for all fans. Do have a go at it! Most tracks offer introductory clinics with a rental fleet of bikes.

[@emmahill1716]

It would be awesome to see more track content from you! Technical stuff on how to do flying 200s, best way to do a team sprint, how to ride bunch races…. Track is SOOOOOOO much FUN!!!

[@mithral999]

Yes, I train on the Barcelona outdoor velodrome, first time on the bank was petrified but got hooked after the second lap

[@jacobgaylord9277]

Always love seeing Manon having a good time, especially when it’s something she excels at. Seems like sometimes she gets thrown into events that really rub her the wrong way, so kudos to Alex and Connor for giving this a shot!

[@nedreiter3869]

I rode track, at Newport, for the first time in my life last weekend - aged 70! Absolutely LOVED it. When you first go into the arena, the steepness of the banking looks impossible! But with a little bit of coaching, you just take your courage in your hands and go for it. Whizzing along at the top of the track has to be one of the best cycling experiences I've ever had- wish I'd done it half a century ago. Try it: guaranteed to put a grin on your face (and/or a rictus of fear). I would love to see more track on GCN.

[@ymi_yugy3133]

I'd love to see some more track content.

[@gcn]

More on the way!

[@danielinducil3824]

@@gcn finally! One more step closer to track bikes and or fixed gears!

[@ironchin17]

@@gcn Manon, Alex, Connor and Ollie, 4 KM team pursuit. Make it happen!

[@mrvwbug4423]

@@ironchin17 Ollie might actually not be the weak link in a GCN team prusuit, he actually has some track experience from his hour record attempt.

[@manon-lloyd]

@@ironchin17 This would be good|!!

[@The2808erik]

Manon's Bike looks absolutely sick.

[@martinandersson5833]

Yes! Finally some more track content. I have to admire your commitment. Up at 04:00 am🥴. The track is perfect for GCN relays and challenges. Still waiting to see the tandem in action at the track😅👍👏

[@martinraucher2147]

To be fair, Connor has a really long way to fall.

[@aldude9511]

So happy to finally have some velodrome content on GCN! The sound of 1/8" chains is my favourite.

[@BrianSpinzig]

We have an old outdoor track her in town. Tues nights were ‘track night’, which comprised of many of the various track race formats. The track was 1/5 of a mile instead of the Olympic distance, and not near has steep or high in the banking. Still was my favorite type of racing. Loving the track racing content!

[@Zwiesel66]

That was so funny Manon, you did a great trainer job. I may be wrong, but I had the impression that you enjoyed torturing poor Coner. 😁

[@airman8368]

ok. after conner's run, THAT is the type of breathing i expect to hear after a kilo. nice job, guys!!

[@jrh1704]

Manons face when he said he was going to go for under a minute LMFAO 5:03

[@bhargavsawant611]

Would have loved to see a km of Manon too !

[@douglasgordon1258]

What is Manons fastest 1K time to compare?

[@jowlacola]

I enjoyed this too much! Funny how Connor was genuinely frightened and Manon telling him off for not listening! 😂

[@nerigarcia7116]

I love how Alex is up to tackle anything.

[@odmineypiju4761]

Good timing to make track content. I just fell off the banking at my local velodrome at 40 km/h (near its top, I had a good long fall) and broke my forearm terribly. It’s an open-air track, there was some dust or trash up on the banking, which is probably why I lost traction. I was never scared of falling, and I’m still not, even after going through surgery. I’ll be back on the track (and road) as soon as I can safely ride a bike. Track cycling is awesome, everyone should try it, don’t be scared!

[@danbatute2694]

Great vid, but I wanted to know how quick Manon the track queen would have covered the 4 laps in! Future challenge idea, 8 presenters in two teams of four, 4km team pursuit. Timed laps to ascertain who is quickest, then arrange the teams so they should have an even balance.

[@peterlockwood1770]

Surely try a madison race with the hand-sling changeovers

[@quantumdecoherence1289]

I used to race on the track very long time ago in Northbrook Illinois. Awesome experience. Alas, a bit too old now in my fifties to risk the crashes, but it was a blast. Loved it.

[@marknacional6388]

Connor is a character XD Loved this vid!

[@doxielain2231]

This encouraged me to look for more track content, and yes, I looked for video of Manon racing.

[@furdstahmania]

Track content! Yeah! Keep 'em comin'.

[@keithmccallum1054]

If this video was an hour long it could be called "The Conor Dunne Comedy Hour" !

[@akactors]

Super fun. Conner is hilarious - adhd pro cyclist. Attention is tough for me, too! Can a chain gang of presenters beat a minute in 4 laps? Get Manon out there!

[@noahmiller91]

I love Connor @11:10 sounding more Irish as he psychs himself up! "Come on Connor!" Fair play riding at the top, 42 degree slip is like a 90% gradient!

[@stevemawer848]

As a junior back in the 60s I raced at Preston Park in Brighton - a wonderful 600 yard mostly flat track that you really needed gears to get up the back straight! I also raced at Alexandra Park, Portsmouth (now called the Mountbatten Centre) with a modicum of success. And about ten years ago I had a go at Calshot, which is a rather different track from the previous two, a tight, steep 400 metre bowl that was originally used for the Skol Six in London. You really should do a shoot there, Conor would love it!

[@dzulkifl]

Manon - one of the most expressive, delightful and attractive KZbin presenters ever! And pro rider to boot. love this lady!!!

[@JustSueMe]

They actually did pretty well, considering sub 1 minute time to kilometer was not a thing even for pros until not too long ago. I love videos like these where we see more of the GCN crew interacting with one another!

[@BikerionMTBChile]

We need more of this !! Thank you Manon !

[@MrDave13193]

Not going to lie see this has just made me go sign up to restart my track accreditation! There is just something so fun about track cycling!

[@ashleycraiglozada2550]

Yes! More track/fixed gear video please!

[@RESolberg]

I smiled and chuckled all the way through this video... not only intertwining but informative... great 😉

[@jacobtherkelsen1358]

Great to have you on board Manon! Track cycling rocks!

[@01FozzyS]

The track Queen should have shown them how it's done. lol

[@TheMerckxProject]

Took to the boards for the first time this year myself. Like Connor, the first few laps are intimidating, but the longer you turn the pedals, the more comfortable you get.

[@leslie7922]

Manon is the best presenter

[@reaodasdf]

Conor or Her maybe Si

[@deabreu.tattoo]

Manon didn't set a time so the boys could feel good about themselves

[@ronbell7920]

The boys averaged over 40 mph! Manon would do well if she could keep up!

[@stevemawer848]

@@ronbell7920 Really? I make Alex's 1k in 1:17 46.75 kph, so just over 28mph. Conor managed 43.37 kph, nearly 27 mph. Manon could easily do that.

[@ronbell7920]

@@stevemawer848 yeah Steve, I thought they said mile, not 1 km. My bad!

[@0ldw3lshm4n]

@@ronbell7920 no where near 40mph

[@ronbell7920]

@@0ldw3lshm4n , yeah I replied to this mistake before, I thought they said one mile not one K!

[@ForeverLumoz]

I love this video 🤣👍🏻 Manon is always a joy and I laughed at least as loud as Connor yelled 🤣🤣🤣

[@Seppster58]

Another entertaining video. I was rooting for Connor but after that start..LOL. I got vertigo watching Connor's POV shot running the top of the track..EEEKS!!! Well done guys. And KUDOs for Manon getting the guys out to do this.

[@petinka721]

I wish I have tried but after this video I understand I am only for the black line. Conor made it great!

[@tobyk8125]

Love these hosts, especially when they were lined up like John Cleese and the Two Ronnies at the end!

[@ianbarkham5080]

"i know my place..."

[@MarceloG..]

One of your most fun videos. I really enjoyed this one!

[@evilcadence9056]

Connor, I feel you. It was ecactly my thoughts during my first attempt in this discipline 1 yr. ago. Felt instantly back there.

[@bennetthasty7886]

I can see now how Conner got the job - he LOVES talking while riding so much fun to watch, Alex was so fast & Mannon is always smiles for miles love her

[@sufyansaleem9771]

The kilo is probably the hardest event on the bike, good on them for giving it a go.

[@mrvwbug4423]

Yeah, basically have to explode out the gate, but then save a timed sprint for the final lap, that doesn't sound that easy.

[@sufyansaleem9771]

@@mrvwbug4423 it's 4 laps it's explode get to speed and hold on, if you are 'sprinting' that's a sub soptmal strategy.

[@bashbunny313]

Conor was the perfect choice for this contest XD

[@valotaza2325]

Had my cough worsen from laughing 😆😆 loved that natural reactions.

[@radwinlynch5500]

You always remember your first time on an Olympic cycling track. I'd love to see more track content actually. That was fun.

[@vongdong10]

Manon looked like she had a lot of fun that day

[@TikeMyson69]

Must be the vibrating saddle.

[@coverchick]

Nicely done. I wish Manon would talk more about her bike and the bikes the guys were using. How were they geared? More Manon, she's the bomb.

[@chawley52]

Thanks for this segment! I rode track back in the late 70s in Southern California, mostly on the 250-meter Encino velodrome (concrete). This brought back many memories...including the post kilo gasping and pain! Please visit the track again! BTW, I still have my first training track bike, a Gitane Track Standard and my last racing frame, a beautiful orange Rickert!

[@arontal]

I’ve been curious about trying track for awhile now. Reeeeeally want to try it now. Also, would really have loved to see Manon ride!

[@ucanskixc568]

1'17" and 1'23" is typical time for a local provincial track rider in Canada. It would have been interesting to see Manon's time for the kilo. I have introduced 100's of kids and adults to the track, in decades past, and it was interesting and fun to watch newbies from GCN try it. :) Now for Hank up on the top banking, with a large penny farthing. :) By the way a penny farthing on a 33' degree bank on the top next to the rail was scary for me. lol.

[@ericleonard9247]

Love the track cycling content! Thank you!

[@NZWozza]

I was cracking up at Manon riding behind Connor.

[@Mububban23]

Looked like a dad taking his daughter for a ride :-D

[@MrAusterror]

More track content would be great. There are so many events to explain and explore.

[@darrylhuculak4996]

It's some how weirdly reassuring that someone who has ridden in the professional ranks can still be nervous about trying something new on a bicycle, and then express the joy of someone who just completed their first race. Way to go Conor!

[@bobbysilver272]

Aluminium, Carbon, Titanium....Manon's sharp comments could cut through anything :-)

[@SillyDaddyPH]

I had a grin on my face the whole time. More of this, please!

[@DrDan-ue9de]

I was waiting for Manon to show the boys how it’s done on the 1km!

[@2rsbullock]

I can say I have many 1,000s of kilometers riden on the Encino Velodrome over many years. It is where I feel like I really learned how to ride a bike. But it has been several decades since I have last riden on a track. Have been lucky enough to have ridden the 333 meter 7/11 Olympic Velodrome used in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. The 7/11 Velodrome is no longer in existence but has been replaced by 250 meter track similar to the one in the video. I would love to see some Madison racing. That was one of my favorite rides. Got to stay I wasn't a very competitive rider but I had a hell of lot of fun.

[@robinc7685]

Track racing is awesome. Had the opportunity a few years ago to ride the what was then the new velodrome in Cambridge, New Zealand. It was incredible fun. We are lucky in South Oz to have three velodromes in close proximity and they are all brilliant. If anyone offers you the chance to come and try track cycling take it. You'll love it :D

[@bikeanddogtripsvirtualcycling]

0:01 Alex is certainly trying to keep a handle on things - getting up for work before I have even bothered going to bed

[@lblascano]

Wanna see more of Manon and her awesome bike! ❤️❤️❤️

[@chloemayne6865]

Seeing Conor panting like that made me feel better 😂😂 I thought I was so unfit when I went on the track and I cycle loads 😂😂😂

[@thegule]

Loved this! Always wanted to give track a try. Great video.

[@andras.89]

Manon is rockin' with that fine I30N, sweet.

[@Brentdarley]

Poor Conor. Good fun that. I have ridden on a 170M track that is built inside an old hockey arena. Very very steep.

[@paulgarrett604]

Great one 👌 i have always wanted to have a go please show some more and maybe cover a taster session thanks keep it up GCN.

[@abishaakmal7455]

hats off to connor to still try it. the only time i do a race in velodrome i crashed and it made me stop race a road bike

[@tymo7777]

I wonder if Manon could give us tips on velodrome etiquette and logistics. I’d love to know how to try it out and get started

[@stevemawer848]

Find your local velodrome and book a taster session.

[@manon-lloyd]

Coming soon!!

[@arundelnet]

1:02 standing start at Herne Hill on a (2 wheeled) recumbent before HH was revamped in my 30's

[@Ernie_13]

This was seriously enjoyable video. Every bit perfect! 🙌

[@PushpakKarnick]

Manon is a proper trainer :) Would love to see more track videos.

[@jackiewong0806]

Not a track guy, but Manon's track bike looks sick!!😍

[@jennybrennan7177]

Connor: “Those bends look really steep” to be fair he has another meter of height to look down from so everything looks high to him 😂😂

[@clarahaueis-robinson6988]

Alex Paton, I couldn't help but notice you got the same doggy basket as I have for my dog, cute dog by the way!

[@XSpeedX100]

Well done Conor :) I feel inspired to go to the track now ... I wonder how to get some time at Manchester's track