Variables

Controlled Environment

Riding a bike on a velodrome removes variables present on the open roads. Velodromes tend to be limited to cyclists, ridden in the same direction, constructed with smooth surfaces, possess banked corners to support high-speed turning, provide a uniform distance, and allow riders to test their limits. Not every cyclist who is good on a velodrome is equal on the roads. Remove the controlled environment of the track, and the variables might disrupt their ability to put out constant power. Equally, not every great road cyclist can perform magic on the track.

Who might we recognize where we excel and under what conditions we thrive?

Circles

Why ride a bike in circles around a velodrome? It takes three laps to cover a kilometer, and if we intend to ride a long distance, it is a mentally challenging way to accumulate distance. Spending too much time riding laps can create a sense of vertigo. But the track offers a smooth service, with precise measurements, and eliminates several obstacles encountered on the open road. A session in the velodrome gets us closer to precision and gives us a chance to categorize the inputs and outputs.

What is equivalent to a velodrome experience for your team? Where do you assemble to practice performing at your highest level? What opportunities allow you to test your capabilities within a controlled environment?

Variables and Inputs

Riding a bike across a swinging cable bridge creates movement on the deck, amplified by the inputs from the rider. Add more cyclists to the same bridge span, and the journey gets more energetic. Navigating the span becomes increasingly more challenging (and exhilarating) with more inputs.

For others, leaping from a bridge attached to a bungee cord is a thrill, and it provides the rush of adventure and a state of free fall that is not customary to the human lifecycle. There are fewer inputs for a bungee jumper, and removing constraints makes it remarkable.

The impact of variables and inputs creates different journeys and feedback. How might we amplify our journey by seeking higher-quality inputs? Let’s be clear about which variables we hope to leverage.