Originally Posted by Hermes

Larry, when you set up the track bike, For your size, I suggest 1/8 chain, cogs and chain rings. Avoid the 3/16 road setup. And use a rear lock ring. IMO/experience you can get excellent rear wheel braking by back pressure on the pedals. The front brake is necessary for the road to match the braking capability of the other riders and it is easier on the legs.

At the track, I am able to stop rather quickly without skidding via back pressure on the pedals. I try not to do that and use the banking and other techniques to reduce speed. However, sometimes the rider in front just slows (ran out of power) and back pedaling is effective at reducing speed suddenly. Without a lock ring, it is possible to wind the rear cog off the rear wheel - very bad.