Metric in Sports: Bicycling

Metric Biking Events

• The modern Olympics contains several bicycling events, including track cycling, road cycling, mountain biking, and BMX.
• A Metric Century is a long distance bicycle challenge ride, a distance of 100 km or about 250 laps around a typical U.S. high school track (~400 meters per lap).
• The Tour de France is an annual contest where bicycling competitors cover about 3500 km in multiple stages over a diverse and demanding route. Up-to-date information can be found at the official site.

Applying Metric Measurements

• Evaluate a course using the USA Track and Field Road Running Technical Council Course Measurement and Certification Procedures.
• Determine Bicycling Speed Math using metric measurements.
• Explore techniques that customize cyclist positioning to improve performance.
• Review Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute guidelines for bicycle gear and safety resources. Many Bicycle Helmet Standards uses metric measurements when evaluating safety performance.
• One meter distance is a helpful rule-of thumb used to help cyclists pass automobiles safely.

Resources

• Metric in Sports
• Olympic Educational Activities
• Everyday Estimation