K-CYCLE Race Trends: How Each Grade Shapes the Competition

In K-CYCLE racing, it's not the clock but the ranking that determines the outcome. Riders compete in three main grades—B-grade, A-grade, and S-grade—and each tier has developed its own distinct rhythm. Understanding these patterns has become increasingly vital, not just for analysts but also for fans looking to improve their race predictions.

◆ B-grade: Disruptors Shake Up the Pack

B-grade races are known for their emphasis on core tactics like Lead, Overtake, and Last Charge. But recently, riders who disrupt the traditional formation have begun stealing the spotlight. Rather than using physical contests to seize key positions—as often seen in higher grades—these disruptors rely on positioning and timing to take control of the inside lane.

By shadowing the front-runner and gradually increasing their pace, these riders aim to challenge anchor riders from just behind. If the timing is right, it can result in finishes well above expectations. Kim Jae-hoon (B2), Chae Pyoung-ju (B3), Hong Suk-han (B2), and Jung Sung-hoon (B2) are among those who have recently outperformed their odds by using this approach. In B-grade races, identifying these disruptors can be just as important as spotting the favourites

◆ A-grade: Independence Defines the Contenders

A-grade racing is the most competitive across all levels, with larger fields and fiercer rivalries. In every race, a few riders emerge as the so-called anchors—the ones most likely to influence the race. But among them, those who win through self-reliant tactics—leading solo, overtaking late, or making a well-timed last charge—are the ones to watch.

Riders like Won Jun-o (A1), Han Tak-hee (A1), Kim Jun-cheol (A1), and Im Jae-yeon (A1) have previously competed in S-grade before being reclassified. Their experience shows: they know how to read a race, adapt on the fly, and close strong when it counts. However, if an anchor rider is locked into a single style—say, only leading from the front—analysts recommend keeping an eye out for others who may disrupt the plan.

◆ S-grade: Levelled Playing Field, Unpredictable Outcomes

S-grade has long been ruled by elite riders like Im Chae-bin (SS) and Jung Jong-jin (SS), with In Chi-hwan (SS) and Hwang Seung-ho (S1) also commanding respect. But even here, upsets are increasingly common when these dominant names are absent.

Sung Nak-song (S1) and Park Jin-young (S1), both from the Sangnam Team, have capitalised on the recent dip in form from East Seoul's trio—Jun Won-gyu (SS), Shin Eun-seob (S1), and Jung Hae-min (S1)—to secure frequent spots in the finals. With such balance across the field, relying solely on high scorers no longer guarantees results. 

Instead, accurate predictions in S-grade often come down to reading team dynamics and tactical interplay. How many riders from the same team are racing? Which strategies are being repeated, and which are being adapted on the fly? These are the nuances that separate the casual observer from the seasoned fan.

Lee Geun-woo, senior analyst at ‘Luxury K-CYCLE’, explained, "Each grade tells a different story. In B-grade, it’s all about who can break the mould. In A-grade, it’s about how well an anchor can steer the race solo. And in S-grade, where the margins are razor-thin, understanding tactics and team composition is the real key to seeing what’s coming next."