Criterium facts for kids
A criterium, often called a crit, is a special kind of bicycle race. These races happen on a short course, usually less than 5 kilometers long. They are often held on city streets that are closed off to traffic.
Criterium races can be set for a certain amount of time, like one hour, or for a certain number of laps. They are usually shorter than traditional road races, which can last for many hours or even days. But crits are very fast! The winner is the first rider to cross the finish line without being "lapped." Being "lapped" means another rider has completed a full lap and passed you.
Sometimes, there are special prizes called primes during the race. These are usually cash prizes given to the first rider to cross the finish line on certain laps, like every 10th lap.
To win a criterium, riders need great skills. They must be able to turn corners quickly and sharply. They also need to ride safely in a big group on a small track. Plus, they need amazing fitness to attack other riders and speed up fast out of corners. Criteriums are popular because they are easier to set up and don't need a huge amount of space. They are the most common type of bike race in the United States.
What Bikes and Gear Do Riders Use?
Bikes used for criteriums are usually the same as those used in other road races. However, some riders might use bikes that are a bit shorter. This helps them control the bike better when making sharp turns. They might also use slightly shorter pedal levers (called cranks). This helps them keep pedaling even through tight corners.
Images for kids
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Collegiate cyclists take a tight downhill corner in the Boston Beanpot Criterium at Tufts University.
See also
In Spanish: Critérium para niños
