Cycling is more than just the Tour de France, there's world of diverse disciplines, each with its own unique style and challenges. Whether you're an avid cyclist or just getting started, it's worth diving into the exciting realm of cycling disciplines you'll find at the local club or at 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Here's a guide to to the big six:

Road Cycling Includes Road Races To Criteriums

The Bikes: Road cycling is all about those skinny tires and sleek drop handlebars. It's the classic image of cyclists zipping along smooth roads.

Road cycling offers a variety of race formats, including Time Trials, Road Races, Criteriums, and multi-day stage races. In Time Trials, aerobars are a common sight, but for junior riders aged 14 and under, they're a no-go.

Catch road cyclists in action from early spring through mid-summer when the weather is cycling-frie

Cyclocross Is Cycling's Winter Games

The Bikes: Imagine a road bike with knobby tires or even a mountain bike—it's cyclocross. Versatility is the name of the game.

Cyclocross is like a steeplechase on two wheels. Riders navigate off-road courses featuring grass, dirt, sand, mud, pavement, and more. You'll encounter obstacles like barriers and steep hills, making riders dismount and remount their bikes multiple times. Races are timed, with riders completing multiple laps.

Cyclocross kicks into high gear during the fall and winter months, when riders tackle a mix of terrains.

Gravel Riding - Cycling's Newest Discipline

Bike Style: Gravel riding is all about adventure on two wheels. These bikes combine features from road and mountain bikes and are designed for off-road exploration.

Gravel riders seek out unpaved paths, exploring backcountry roads and trails. It's less about racing and more about the journey. Gravel events can range from casual group rides to epic endurance races that test both skill and stamina.

Gravel riding is a year-round adventure, but many enthusiasts hit the gravel roads in spring and fall when the weather is mild. 

As it's one of of the newest disciplines, it hasn't yet found its way into Olympics or in championships around the world.

Track Cycling Revolves Around The Velodrome

The Bikes: Fixed gear, no brakes—track cycling is all about simplicity and speed. The bikes are designed for the oval velodromes.

Velodromes come in various shapes and sizes, each with its unique charm. Riders whiz around these banked ovals in pursuit of speed. In the U.S., you'll find velodromes often hosting beginner race programs that provide track bike rentals for newcomers.

Track cycling shines during the summer months when riders take to banked oval tracks.

Mountain Bike: Cross-Country to Downhill

The Bikes: Mountain bikes are built to conquer the rough terrain with suspension frames, fat knobby tires, and flat handlebars.

Mountain biking offers a plethora of thrills, from Cross-Country to Downhill, and everything in between. Events are often grouped together over a weekend or during festivals, making it a perfect opportunity to revel in the mountain biking community.

Spring, summer, and fall are prime mountain biking seasons, inviting riders to explore the great outdoors.

BMX Racing To Flatland Finesse 

The Bikes: BMX bikes feature hardtail frames, small wheels, and flat handlebars—ideal for quick sprints and tricks.

BMX racing is a high-speed spectacle where riders aim to reach the finish line first. It's an exciting discipline to both participate in and watch. BMX Flatland, on the other hand, showcases impressive bike control and creativity.

BMX heats up in the spring and summer, with riders tearing through designated tracks made of concrete and dirt.

So, whether you're drawn to the open road, the challenging terrain, or the adrenaline rush of BMX, the world of cycling has a discipline waiting for you. Each one offers its own blend of excitement and opportunities for riders to push their limits.