Track season is here

Despite the current ‘cost of living challenges’ facing all community events, Bike Manawatu is 100% committed to ensuring the 51st year of the Novice Tour – once again provides a safe, fun, competitive cycle racing event.

We will adopt a high-quality assured approach in implementing the Local Roading Authority’s/Cycling New Zealand’s ‘Safe Traffic Management System’ (STMS) standards which ensure best practices and rider and spectator safety.

If the level of community funding secured is not sufficient to contract in external road management service providers with the ability to stop/go traffic, the Novice Tour will proceed on a ‘local club racing’ model, whereby our team of trained/experienced road marshals will, where necessary, pause racing in order to give way to traffic and ensure rider safety.

Although funding external road management services with the ability to stop/go traffic is ideal, if this is not feasible – we are confident that the event’s ‘Safe Traffic Management System’ (STMS) will provide a competitive, fair, enjoyable and importantly safe racing environment.

Irrespective of which model of traffic management/racing is finalised, as with all CNZ/Bike Manawatu events, normal road rules will apply and a full rider briefing confirming the event rules will be provided to all riders prior to the start of each race.

Just a reminder for any one that is interested in having a go on a track bike or even having a go on the track, if you haven’t had a look at the club calendar the important dates are listed here.

Sunday 16th October from 11.30am Track working bee

Saturday 22nd, Monday 24th, Sunday 30th October Bike rental and fitting days – If you want to hire a track bike for the season we do have new ones arriving and they are available for rent for a very reasonable price. You need to make an appointment by emailing secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz Please not that all appointments have already been taken for Monday 24th and Sunday 30th.

Sunday 23rd October Have a go day – Starting at 1.30pmEver wanted to ride a track bike on a track then come and have a go. We have plenty of bikes available and there will be a size available for you to have a go on. You may enjoy it so much that you may want to come to some of our weekly events. Bring your helmet and shoes (and pedals if you have cleats)

Monday 31st October First night for road bikes on track Warm up from 5.45pm. Racing starts at 6pm sharp. Different grades dependant on age and ability. Different races each week from handicap races, time trials, duathlons.

Tuesday 1st November Orientation night for track bikes Especially important that all first time track riders attend this night so that rules and events can be explained.Warm up from 5.45 pm Racing starts at 6.15pm

You are allowed to ride on 3 nights before you have to become a member. For non-members there is an entry fee of $5 per night.