The world’s newest cycling velodrome opened recently in the desert outside Tucson, Arizona USA, with the 250 meter long track including 40 degree banked turns resembling a giant aluminum stir-fry wok.

Its unofficial nickname is The Wok.

Tucson Velodrome is the first of it’s kind metal track anywhere in the world, with sand blasted aluminum selected as the riding surface to reportedly withstand the blistering desert heat. Daily high temperatures in sunny Tucson routinely exceeding 100F (38C) from April through October.

So it did not take long for social media pundits to have fun:

“I hope it’s non-stick Teflon coated.”

“I thought this was a joke…. THIS IS REAL????”

“Apparently if the correct number of cyclists in the correct formation ride counterclockwise at the correct speed, the entire track begins to oscillate like an Asian singing bow.”

“I’m gonna sell sunscreen in the parking lot.”

“Q: What tires do you use on an aluminum track? A: Special tires made of the same stuff they line aluminum cans with.”

“Waiting for the reflection to torch airplanes flying over. Bright sun and curved aluminum surfaces….giant solar concentrator.”

“Welding goggles required for daytime use.”

“Sandblasting the aluminum track was a waste, the next haboob will do it for free.”

“I’d be concerned about going blind over time and skin cancer. That’s a lot of reflection!”

“Reminds me of a radio telescope.”

Although no track racing events are current scheduled at the privately funded facility, classes are available to certify wannabe trackies as wells promote cycling to youth in the community.

Photo Credit: Facebook/groups/782226131826556

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