Overview: This session is for children aged 8-16yrs who can confidently ride a bike, are able to hold a straight line and follow basic instructions. 

Our Track Taster Sessions are the first step on our cycling pathway, and are essential to attend before participating in any other track cycling sessions. The Taster will teach you the basic principles of track riding, and be a fun introduction to the sport. 

If your child isn't confident riding a bike yet, we recommend attending our Youth Cycle Skills sessions first, to build essential riding skills.

Session Details:

• Age Group: This session is open to people 8-16 years old.

• Session Duration: 1 hour

• Bikes: Track Bikes Only. These are included in the session cost, with no reservation needed.

• Helmets: Required. These are also free to borrow if you don't have your own.

• Experience level: No track experience necessary. You must be able to ride a two-wheeled bike independently.

What to Bring:

• Water and a snack

• Weather-appropriate clothing (see below for more details)

Recommended Clothing:

• Gloves are required: we have some to borrow though we recommend you bring your own if you can.

• Lycra is not required, although we recommend that you don't wear anything too baggy - layers are recommended, as well as a warm jacket for after.

• Waterproofs (sessions will still run in bad weather)

• Shoulders must be covered

• Closed-toed shoes must be worn (preferably trainers): no sandals, sliders, crocs or flip flops please!

If you'd like to purchase some cycling kit from the Friends of Herne Hill Velodrome, check out our online shop - you can order items online and choose click and collect, to pick up on the day of your taster. Please note that it takes up to a week to process these orders so please order at least a week in advance.

Important to know:

• Please arrive 15 minutes before the session start time to complete the sign on process, to ensure that the session can start promptly.

• Latecomer policy: It is not possible for latecomers to join in. We will move your booking to another day wherever possible.

Location:

• Meeting Point: We don’t have a reception area so once you arrive, please head to the bench-style seating outside the track fence in front of the pavilion: your coach will come collect you. Usually there is another session in progress on the track, so it can be nice to watch that for a bit!

You will receive an email ahead of your Taster session, outlining everything you need to know. If you have any questions before then, please email info@hernehillvelodrome.com.