Help with starts on 2000 meter
 

So last weekend was my first practice session at Rock Hill with being held at the start of 500 meter and 2000 meter TT.
Starting with my stronger right leg at 10 o’clock tends to torque me into the cote de azur! I use standard drop bars, 38 cm.
Any way to practice my starts *off the track* without that banking to throw me offline?
Or any tips to correct my starts on the track? I am looking straight down the track, not at my front wheel!
Thanks,
-Robin (way too old for this)

You can practice starts in an empty parking lot or quiet street on the track bike from a slow roll. I've also seen people set a 2x4 by the wheel of their car, put their rear wheel against the 2x4, and lean against the car for their start.

Yes, never noticed before but there is a beveled curb on my apt complex roadways that could simulate starting on the track banking. Slow roll to almost stop will work until i can do a track stand.

Also, you noted that you are finding that you are diving down track on your starts. Some people actually use that to help them gain speed and move back up to black line before the sponges start.

Oh, ok thanks!
Yes, I had been taught to use the banking above the black line to slightly speed up or slow down, such as in a paceline. That is a good idea.
My starts were going all wrong, but, yes, i did get back in the lane before the sponges.
Thanks for the tips!

Start with the left foot forward for 2 reasons:

1: It pushes you up track to offset gravity pulling you down track.

2: Your first pedal stroke isn’t full. The second one is. This saves the first full stroke for your stronger leg.

“Rolling Starts” (where you roll as slow as you can manage to stay upright) are a great way to practice standing start mechanics without help. They can also be done solo when using toe straps. Further, the setup time is much faster than when doing starts with a holder.

It’s not a 100% substitute, but great for training.

Ok!
That is why my very first start, with my *Left* pedal at 10 o’clock was a better start.
I will work on that way of starting.
Thanks so much!

+100

I'm glad to help.

Know that everything gets better with time and repetition. I recommend that all new racers spend as much time as possible on the track. Even if you are just riding laps or sitting in races that you may not have a chance to win. Soon, riding the curves will be second nature and you can focus on training and tactics.