Cycling

Scope

A cycle event consists of a start, split points (or laps) and a finish. Laps can be timed as the rider passes through the same timing point and results can present rankings based on laps and time. Bikes can reach speeds of 60km/hr at the finish line.

Method

Cycling is best timed using just side antennas although mats can also be used, especially for the start line in very large events.

Recommended System

Cycle events such as Gran Fondo’s are easily timed using Ultra. Because side antennas can read from a long distance across the road the maximum number needed is 4 antennas and most times 2 antennas will suffice. This means an Ultra4 will easily handle a timing point up to 8m wide with antennas on each side of the road. Mountain bike races are also well suited to Ultra and the automated results on long 12 and 24hr races enhances the riders experience whilst reducing the workload for the timing crew. Teamed with low cost disposable tags worn on the seat post or front number plate the read perforance is exceptional and precision is close to 0.1 seconds.

The Joey System is also a system well suited to MTB, time trials and small road events.

An excellent setup for high resolution finishes is to team up an Ultra4 system with a low cost photofinish app like SprintTimer. Close finishes to 0.01 seconds can be easily adjudacated.

Running Events Using RFID Race Timing Systems

Cape Town Argus (SA),  Amstel Gold Ride (NED), BUPA Challenge (AUS), The Mont 24hr (AUS), Tour of Mauritius (MU), Tour of Bintan (ID)