Cycle sport

Cycle sport is a competitive physical activity using bicycles. There are several categories of bicycle racing including road bicycle racing, time trialing, cyclo-cross, mountain bike racing, track cycling, BMX, and cycle speedway. Non-racing cycling sports include artistic cycling, cycle polo, freestyle BMX and mountain bike trials. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the world governing body for cycling and international competitive cycling events. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognizes the UCI as the governing body for cycling at the Olympic Games. Cycle sport is governed internationally by the UCI, which is headquartered in Aigle, Switzerland.

Types of Cycle Sport

Road Bicycle Racing

Road bicycle racing is a bicycle racing sport held on roads, using racing bicycles. The term "road racing" is usually applied to stages races that are held over several days. The most famous of these is the Tour de France, a three-week-long race that can attract millions of spectators to the roadside and a huge television audience.

Track Cycling

Track cycling takes place on velodromes (tracks) with track bicycles. Track cycling events include sprints, time trials, pursuits, and the keirin among others. The sport is particularly popular in Europe, with countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Germany having a strong track cycling tradition.

Mountain Bike Racing

Mountain bike racing evolved from off-road biking activities in the 1970s and includes disciplines like cross-country (XC), downhill (DH), and enduro. Mountain bike races are held on off-road courses with varying degrees of technical difficulty.

Cyclo-cross

Cyclo-cross is a form of bicycle racing that typically takes place in the autumn and winter. It involves racing over mixed terrains, including grass, woodland trails, pavement, and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount and carry the bike while bypassing the obstructions.

BMX Racing

BMX racing is a type of off-road bicycle racing. The format of BMX was derived from motocross racing. BMX bicycle races are sprint races on purpose-built off-road single-lap tracks.

Governing Bodies

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the world governing body for cycling and oversees international competitive cycling events. National governing bodies are affiliated with the UCI, and they manage cycling sports within their respective countries.

Cycling in the Olympics

Cycling has been a part of the Olympic Games since the modern era's inception in 1896. Cycling disciplines in the Olympics include road cycling, track cycling, mountain bike, and BMX.

See Also

• List of cycling topics
• Cycling records
• Bicycle
• History of cycling