A track frame is specific to its intended use, with emphasis on rigidity and lightness. Frames for sprinting seek to maximize rigidity, while those for general racing seek to reduce aerodynamic drag. The dropouts or track ends face rearwards to facilitate chain tension adjustment. A true track fork, unless aerodynamics are the primary consideration, has round-section blades for greater lateral stiffness when sprinting. The crown is sometimes drilled to give the option of mounting a front brake when the bike is used on the road.
Rules
The governing body, the Union Cycliste Internationale, sets limits on design and dimensions as well as the shape and diameter of the tubes used to construct the frame. The UCI permits special exceptions for the construction and geometry of track bikes. A Keirin bike is a track bike for Keirin races in Japan that meets the strict system of standards of the JKA Foundation, the governing body for Keirin competitions, still popular under the abbreviation of its predecessor body - NJS.
Geometry
A track bicycle frameset differs from one used on the road by having:
higher bottom bracket so the pedals do not touch a steeply banked track
shorter chainstays
steeper seat tube angle for a more aerodynamic position
longer reach
very tight clearances between wheels and frame tubes
modern track frames use spacing for the rear hub
some small-size track frames often have substantial toe overlap with the front wheel that is not an issue for velodrome riding but can make slow-speed turns awkward if the bike is used on the road.
Material
Frames are assembled from tubular elements, or cast in a mould for "one-piece" type models. The most popular materials for frame building include steel, aluminium, or titanium alloys, carbon fiber, or a combination of these materials. Carbon fiber frames are most common at the professional level.
Gear ratio
Track bicycles have only one drive sprocket and one chainring, so the size ratio is relevant. A lower gear ratio allows quicker acceleration or 'jump' but can limit top speed. A larger gear ratio makes sustained speed easier, important in pursuit racing, time trial and bunched races such as points or scratch events. Without a good jump, the rider risks opponents accelerating away; without good sustained speed, the rider will be unable to keep up with a fast race. Track sprinters make a compromise by using particular gear ratios that allows them to reach race speeds at a relatively high cadence, around 130-135 rpm. Long-distance attempts such as the hour record sometimes use high gear combinations such as 52x12 or 55x14. Ondřej Sosenka used 54x13 with cranks to set the 2005 record.
Chain
s used in track, fixed gear and single speed cycling come in two common roller widths : inch and. The chainring, sprocket and chain should all be the same width. Although a wider chain will work on a narrower chainring or sprocket, it is not ideal. A narrower chain will not work on a wider chainring or sprocket. Newer bicycles with derailleur gears use bushingless chains which flex, making gear changing possible. There are also inch bushingless chains on the market, which can be lighter or cheaper. Track bicycles, however, need increased strength rather than a lightness or a flexibility, so most of the track chains still use the full-bushing design.
Tires
Tubular tires are most often used in track racing and training, though advances in clincher tire design have seen them being used somewhat more often.
