A solid track stand can help you stay clipped in – and take off faster – while waiting at red lights or stop signs. Perfect it with this four-step drill from Colby Pearce, a coach and former US Olympian track cyclist. – By Jason Sumner

Step 1
Pedal in a medium-low gear on a quiet stretch of road, in a parking lot, or on grass. Start on a slight uphill grade; it’s easier to learn on. Point your bike sideways, perpendicular to the slope. Grip your hoods lightly with your fingers on the brakes, and keep your body weight centred over the bike. Start gently rolling to a stop.

Step 2
As you slow down, stand up and turn your front wheel to a 30-degree angle from the top tube, pointing your wheel uphill.

Step 3
While turning your wheel, rotate your cranks so that your pedals are level, and the uphill side is forward. Look ahead, not down, which can throw off equilibrium. Fix your gaze on something stationary.

Step 4
Find your balance point, and slowly rock back and forth by applying subtle pressure to your forward crank, then easing off. Avoid touching your brakes once your initial momentum has been stopped. If you feel your bike rolling backwards or downhill, push harder on the forward crank. If you start leaning forwards too far, ease pressure off that crank. And if you feel yourself losing your balance, ride it out and try again.

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