Major Taylor Velodrome

For residents across Indiana, particularly those in the Indianapolis metropolitan area, finding a dedicated facility that caters to a wide range of cycling disciplines and action sports is a tremendous asset. Look no further than the Major Taylor Velodrome, a truly impressive and multi-faceted venue that serves as a hub for cyclists, skateboarders, and BMX riders of all ages and skill levels. Named after the legendary Indianapolis-born 1899 cycling world champion Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor, this facility honors his legacy by fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for athletic pursuits.

More than just a single track, the Major Taylor Velodrome is a core component of the larger Indy Cycloplex, a comprehensive sports park that offers diverse terrain and opportunities for various wheeled activities. This integration ensures that whether you're drawn to the high-speed thrill of track cycling, the jumps and berms of a BMX course, the technical challenges of mountain biking, or the creative lines of a skate park, you'll find a dedicated space to hone your skills and connect with a passionate community. It's a place where beginners can learn safely, and experienced athletes can push their limits.

This article aims to provide Indiana locals with a detailed look into the Major Taylor Velodrome and the broader Indy Cycloplex. We will highlight its accessible location, the wide array of services and programs available, and the unique features that make it a standout destination for action sports enthusiasts. We'll delve into what makes experiences here so memorable, as shared by their satisfied users, and why this facility is a vital resource for fostering health, fitness, and competitive spirit within the Hoosier State. If you're in Indiana and looking for an unparalleled wheeled sports experience, the Major Taylor Velodrome complex is a must-visit.

The Major Taylor Velodrome is centrally located at 3649 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA. This strategic address places the facility approximately four miles northwest of downtown Indianapolis, making it a highly accessible destination for residents from across the state's capital and surrounding communities. Its proximity to major roadways ensures that visitors can reach the complex with relative ease.

The Velodrome is situated immediately north of the Marian University campus, which plays a significant role in its operation and programming. For individuals traveling from other parts of Indianapolis or neighboring cities like Carmel, Fishers, Zionsville, or Greenwood, the location is conveniently reachable via Interstate 65 and other arterial roads. Specific directions often involve taking I-65 to Exit 119 (38th Street) and then turning onto Cold Spring Road, with the park entrance visible shortly thereafter. This straightforward access is crucial for attendees of races, classes, and open ride sessions, many of whom are transporting specialized equipment.

As part of the larger Indy Cycloplex, the Velodrome benefits from ample parking facilities, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors. The design of the facility, nestled into the side of a knoll, also contributes to a natural and appealing setting for outdoor activities. Its integration within the Indianapolis parks system and operation by Marian University underscore its role as a key public asset dedicated to promoting active lifestyles and fostering athletic talent within the Indiana community.

The Major Taylor Velodrome, as part of the wider Indy Cycloplex, offers a diverse range of services and programming catering to various cycling disciplines and action sports, from foundational learning to competitive racing.

Services Offered:

• Track Cycling Programs and Classes:
  • Track 101 Class: This introductory course is highly recommended for any cyclist looking to experience the velodrome. It provides a comfortable and fun learning environment with expert coaches. This certification is often required for subsequent track riding sessions.
  • Open Ride Sessions: Opportunities for qualified riders to experience the banked track.
  • Structured Training Sessions: Including Intermediate and Elite training, offering skill drills and workouts for various levels of track riders.
  • Junior Night: Dedicated skill training for riders aged 15 and under.
• Track Cycling Races and Events:
  • Major Taylor Racing League (MTRL): A regular Thursday night race series from April through September, featuring various race types for different categories (Men Cat 4/Novice, Women Cat 4/Novice, Masters 35+, Men Cat 3, Women Pro/Cat 1/2/3, Men Pro/Cat 1/2).
  • Marquee Nights: Special events featuring exciting races.
  • State Championships: Hosting various Indiana State Cycling Championships, including Mass Start, Time Trial, and Sprint events.
  • National and Collegiate Competitions: The Velodrome regularly hosts USA Cycling Collegiate Track National Championships, Masters Track National Championships, and has a history of hosting Elite and Junior Track Nationals.
• BMX Track Activities:
  • Practice Sessions: Regular opportunities for BMX riders to practice.
  • Race Nights: Scheduled BMX races for various skill levels.
  • Beginners League Race Day: Introducing new riders to competitive BMX.
• Cyclocross Course: The Indy Cycloplex features a cyclocross course with obstacles, climbs, and descents, hosting events like the Devo Cross and Major Taylor Cross Cup (UCI CX weekend).
• Mountain Bike Trails: Opportunities for mountain biking, including Short Track Mountain Bike Racing and State Championships.
• Skate Park Access: A dedicated concrete skate park for skateboarders, in-line skaters, and cyclists, open from dawn to dusk and often later with lights.
• Community Programs: The facility aims to promote youth health and fitness and the continuous development of competitive cycling, often including youth programs.

The Major Taylor Velodrome and the broader Indy Cycloplex offer a range of unique features and highlights that distinguish them as a premier sports complex in Indiana.

Features / Highlights:

• World-Class Velodrome: The centerpiece is an outdoor, concrete velodrome, 333.34 meters (364.55 yards) long, with impressive 28-degree banked turns and 9-degree straights. This design makes it a challenging and exciting track for both competitive and recreational cyclists.
• Historic Significance: Named for Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor, an Indianapolis native and the 1899 cycling world champion, the Velodrome was the first public building in Indianapolis named after an African American. This rich history adds a layer of cultural importance to the facility.
• Comprehensive Sports Complex (Indy Cycloplex): Beyond the velodrome, the facility includes a national-caliber BMX track, a challenging cyclocross course, mountain bike trails, and a public skate park. This diversity makes it a unique hub for various wheeled sports in one location.
• Expert Coaching and Welcoming Environment: As evidenced by the "Track 101" review, coaches are "masters at creating a comfortable and fun experience," ensuring that even beginners feel supported and encouraged to try track cycling. This focus on positive learning is a significant draw.
• Hosting Major Events: The Velodrome has a storied history of hosting national and international competitions, including cycling events for the 1987 Pan American Games, and numerous USA Cycling National Championships (Collegiate, Masters, Elite, Junior). This provides opportunities for Indiana residents to witness high-level competition.
• Partnership with Marian University: Operated by Marian University in partnership with Indy Parks, the facility benefits from the expertise of a university with a highly successful collegiate cycling team (47 team National Championships). This collaboration ensures high standards of operation and programming.
• Impressive Skate Park Features: The Major Taylor Skate Park, though separate in operation, is on the same property and is described as "very impressive." It's a medium-sized concrete park with a varied layout including L-shaped halfpipes, ledges, stairs, and quarterpipes, catering to skateboarders, inline skaters, and BMX cyclists.
• Accessibility for All Levels: From "Track 101" classes designed for novices to elite training sessions and competitive races, the facility caters to a wide spectrum of skill levels, ensuring that there's something for everyone interested in cycling or action sports.

To get in touch with the Major Taylor Velodrome or to plan your visit to the Indy Cycloplex, here is their contact information:

Address: 3649 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA

Phone: (317) 778-1056

Mobile Phone: +1 317-778-1056

For the most current information on schedules, event registrations, class availability (like Track 101), or specific operational hours for the Velodrome, BMX track, or skate park, it is highly recommended to visit their official website, indycycloplex.com, or contact them directly.

For residents across Indiana, particularly those in the Indianapolis area, the Major Taylor Velodrome and the broader Indy Cycloplex offer an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for engaging in cycling and other action sports. Its multifaceted nature, combining a world-class velodrome with a BMX track, cyclocross course, mountain bike trails, and a public skate park, ensures that there's a dedicated and high-quality venue for virtually every wheeled sport enthusiast. This comprehensive offering means families and individuals can find diverse activities to suit their interests and skill levels, all within one easily accessible location.

The commitment to education and accessibility is a significant draw. The "Track 101" class, for instance, provides a welcoming and expertly coached introduction to velodrome cycling, making what might seem intimidating an enjoyable and comfortable experience for beginners. This focus on fostering new talent and ensuring a positive learning environment extends across various programs, encouraging more Indiana residents to participate in active lifestyles. Furthermore, the regular schedule of races and events, from local leagues to national championships, provides thrilling opportunities for both participants and spectators, building a vibrant sports community.

Finally, the historical significance of the Major Taylor Velodrome, named after a pioneering Hoosier athlete, adds a unique layer of pride and inspiration. Operated in partnership with Marian University, a leader in collegiate cycling, the facility benefits from professional management and a dedication to athletic development. For any Indiana local looking for a place to learn, train, compete, or simply enjoy various wheeled sports in a supportive and well-maintained environment, the Major Taylor Velodrome and the Indy Cycloplex stand out as an unparalleled resource, truly enriching the state's recreational landscape.

Major Taylor Velodrome

3649 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA