This report details a unique bicycle, expertly crafted by Ken Ellerker and piloted by Ken Cowdell to secure five National Grass Track Championships across various distances. Both individuals, proprietors of bicycle shops in Yorkshire, collaborated to create a machine specifically adapted for the demands of grass track competition. The article delves into the thoughtful design choices and specialized components that contributed to its remarkable success, highlighting the blend of engineering and athletic prowess that defined this championship-winning duo and their extraordinary cycle.
The bicycle's frame is constructed from Reynolds 531 double-butted tubing, a material renowned for its strength and lightness. For the fork, Columbus tubing was chosen, diverging from the traditional 531 due to its broader blades, which offered a lighter alternative. The frame's aesthetic is enhanced by elegant lugs and a distinctive wrap-over seat stay junction. This meticulous selection of materials and construction methods underscores the bike's bespoke nature, designed for both performance and visual appeal.
Grass track racing presents particular challenges, influencing Ellerker's design decisions. The frame's bottom bracket was positioned at a height of 11.25 inches, a deliberate modification to afford Cowdell superior clearance when navigating the banked turns of grass circuits. This elevated clearance was crucial for maintaining speed and stability during aggressive cornering, directly addressing the unique demands of the racing environment.
Further tailoring the bicycle for its intended use, both the frame and fork featured enhanced clearance compared to standard track bikes. This accommodation allowed for the fitting of wider tubular tires, specifically Wolber Cross Super tubulars, chosen for their exceptional grip on grassy surfaces. These tires were mounted on Mavic Route alloy sprinted rims, which were intricately laced to large flange 36-hole track hubs. Notably, the rims bore the Kendell Cycles decal, a subtle nod to Cowdell's own bicycle shop and his involvement in the project.
The cockpit and saddle of the bicycle were meticulously curated by Cino Cinelli, another celebrated Italian figure in cycling. A Cinelli 1/A quill stem was paired with Fiamme alloy handlebars, which were wrapped in a now-worn red cloth tape, bearing the marks of countless races. The choice of Campagnolo Record Pista components further emphasizes the bike's high-performance pedigree. The chainset, featuring 165mm cranks, was specifically selected to optimize clearance during sharp turns, a recurring theme in the bike's design. Campagnolo also supplied the Record two-bolt seat post and the alloy Pista pedals, which were complemented by Christophe toe clips and classic Alfredo Binda leather straps, completing a setup designed for both efficiency and athlete comfort.
This purpose-built machine stands as a testament to the specialized requirements of grass track cycling, combining innovative engineering with top-tier components. The collaborative efforts of Ken Ellerker and Ken Cowdell resulted in a bicycle that not only excelled in competition but also showcased a deep understanding of the sport's nuances. Every element, from the frame's geometry to the choice of accessories, was thoughtfully integrated to maximize performance and ensure championship success on the unique terrain of grass tracks.