The Ed Rudolph Velodrome is one of two short, banked tracks for official bicycle racing in Illinois and one of 28 in the country. For more than 50 years, the distinctive Velodrome has offered cycle racing, training and entertainment. The facility is named after a devoted cyclist and speed skater, the late Ed Rudolph, who served on the Park District Board of Commissioners for almost 30 years.

The Northbrook Park District offers a Youth Cycling Program and special events at the track. Northbrook residents can use the quarter-mile track when it’s not reserved for races, training or Park District events.

On Thursday nights in the summer, the Velodrome attracts top cyclists from the Midwest to weekly races, hosted by the Northbrook Cycle Committee. About 200 riders take part in the Thursday night races, achieving speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Racers use track bikes with fixed gears and no brakes. Spectators are welcome at $2 per person (Children 12 and under are free). Spectators enjoy a front-row seat to the action and share the exhilaration as they support the riders.

The Northbrook Park District encourages everyone to visit the Velodrome and experience the excitement of racing up close.

To rent the Velodrome, call 847-291-2980 or visit the Outdoor Rentals page for more information.

History

Former Park District Commissioner Ed Rudolph helped design and build the bicycle track in 1960 with a perimeter for track cycling and a grassy infield for soccer games. During the winters, the Velodrome was flooded to create a speed skating rink and served as a practice rink for members of U.S. Winter Olympics teams. In the 1990s, the Park District ended that practice, due to the facility’s inability to retain water, which seeped through the soccer field. The track’s asphalt was resurfaced in 1989 and in 2004, and lights and seating have been added.

 

George Garner Cyclery Log

Cycle through the Parks!

Thank you George Garner Cyclery for sponsoring bike repair stations at these parks: