Manchester Velodrome, Sports venue for track cycling in Manchester, United Kingdom
The Vélodrome de Manchester is an indoor cycling venue in Manchester featuring a racing track inside. The track is built from Siberian Pine wood, measures 250 meters in length, and has steeply banked sides reaching up to 42 degrees, which gives it a reputation for speed. The building has an aluminum roof weighing around 600 tons with a distinctive arched structure over 120 meters long that keeps the interior open and naturally bright.
The velodrome opened in 1994 as the first indoor Olympic cycling track built in Britain and was created to develop the nation's cycling program. Since then it has hosted major international competitions including the World Cycling Championships three times and the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
The velodrome takes its name from its location in Manchester, England. The venue brings together cyclists of all abilities in a community focused on competitive and recreational riding, with local clubs and schools regularly using the space for youth programs. The shared passion for track cycling creates a welcoming environment where experienced riders and newcomers interact daily.
Visitors can train or join guided beginner sessions throughout the day from early morning until late evening, with all necessary equipment provided. The venue is easy to reach by public transport since the Metrolink tram stops at the nearby Velopark station, and there is parking available close by.
Chris Boardman set his hour record here in 1996 and again in 2000, demonstrating just how fast this track can be for world-class cyclists. Many Olympic champions like Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish started their careers at this venue, inspiring a generation of riders who followed their paths.
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