Designed so a rider can sit as far forward as possible, Stayer bikes are built for one purpose

Stayer racing, a motor-paced track cycling discipline, was once a thrilling spectacle that captivated crowds in the early 20th century with its extreme speeds and minimal safety measures. Riders would follow closely behind pace motorcycles, known as dernys, reaching speeds of up to 100kph on often unreliable equipment. However, as safety standards improved and tyre technology advanced, the sport’s popularity waned, leading to the UCI discontinuing the Motor-paced World Championships in 1994. Despite this decline, Stayer racing maintains a modest following in parts of Northern Europe, particularly Germany. The design of Stayer bikes reflects their singular purpose: enabling riders to sit as far forward as possible to maximise drafting efficiency behind the derny. A prime example is a mid-1980s Gazelle, preserved in mint condition by Dave Marsh of the Universal Cycle Centre in Rotherham. This bike features a distinctive small 24-inch front wheel and a reversed fork to accommodate the rider’s forward position. Additional structural supports are incorporated to stabilise the handlebars and saddle nose, highlighting the unique engineering required to maintain control at high speeds while tucked closely behind the pacer. Dave Marsh, a respected UK bike collector and former racer, emphasises the appeal of such machines despite their unconventional appearance. He notes that the Gazelle serves as a popular showpiece in his shop, drawing frequent inquiries about its unusual geometry and components. The bike is equipped with a formidable 64-tooth TA chainring paired with a 16-tooth rear sprocket, resulting in a gear ratio of 110 inches, optimised for the high speeds of motor-paced racing. Its frame is constructed entirely from Reynolds 531 tubing, complemented by high-quality Campagnolo and Cinelli components, underscoring the craftsmanship behind these specialised bicycles. The legacy of Stayer bikes offers insight into a niche but fascinating chapter of cycling history, where innovation was driven by the pursuit of speed and proximity to the pacer. While the discipline itself has largely faded from mainstream competition, the preservation and study of these machines provide valuable context for the evolution of track cycling technology. Collectors and enthusiasts like Marsh continue to celebrate this heritage, ensuring that the engineering ingenuity and daring spirit of Stayer racing remain recognised within the broader cycling community.