We will be continuously adding answers to the questions we receive from folks like you, so keep them coming! Just go to the Contact page or write to info@racedots.com. Also, we’re always responding to queries over social media, so follow us there to keep up-to-date on the latest news. This FAQ is mainly about the product; if you have a question about shopping on our website, please see our Shop FAQs. RaceDots® are patented, copyrighted and trademarked. ALL photos, images, videos and designs on this site are copyright protected. All rights reserved.
When can I get RaceDots?
Now! RaceDots are in stock and available now from the shop.
Where can I buy RaceDots?
You can buy RaceDots from our online store http://www.racedots.com/shop or from one of our retailers. If you are a retailer interested in carrying RaceDots, please e-mail us at info@racedots.com. We do ship internationally, but please be aware you may incur additional VAT/duties/customs charges for a shipment to your country.
How fast can you send my RaceDots?
If you need your RaceDots in less than 2 weeks, we highly suggest you choose "Priority Shipping". First Class mail is very economical (for us both) however they OFTEN have delays in shipping. Please check our shipping policy here.
How big is a RaceDot?
The full assembly (top and bottom) height is 5/16" (7.7mm) with a 1/2" (12.7mm) diameter. Each RaceDots® weighs about 4 grams.
How strong are they?
RaceDots are N35 neodymium rare-earth magnets, which are the strongest permanent magnets (they retain their strength for over 50 years). Each RaceDots requires 5.5 lbs. pull force to separate the magnets.
USA Cycling requires four pins on each race number, don’t they?
Actually, no. That is no longer the case. However keep in mind RaceDots are the only UCI approved magnetic attachment alternative to safety pins and yes, they do check racers for this. USAC falls under all UCI approvals and rules. The current USAC rule with regard to race numbers is:
1J7. Racing numbers.
(b) Riders shall place their numbers as prescribed by the Race Director or officials and in such a way that they are visible when the rider is in a racing position. When shoulder numbers are provided for cyclo-cross, they are worn on the upper arm to be visible from the front. Hip numbers shall be attached securely at least at the four corners and no accessory or hair may obstruct a clear view of the number. If shoulder or frame numbers are provided, they too shall be placed as prescribed. Numbers may not be folded, trimmed, or otherwise defaced.
Furthermore, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has approved RaceDots for use in all professional cycling competitions. One caveat: USA Cycling local associations may impose additional rules, so you must ensure that you know the rules for your region.
I lost a RaceDot!?
Please see our policy on lost product here.
Do you offer sponsorships or industry employee discounts?
June 2017 will see our first Brand Ambassador program. We will select 20 people to represent our product for the remainder of 2017. Selection is the second week of June 2017. If you missed the window this year contact us in May 2018. We do not offer military or industry employee discounts at this time. We’re a new business, and we’re really just trying to keep this venture off the ground. So, if you’re interested in a sponsorship from us, the best thing you can do is to share our story with your friends, family, co-workers and teams. Please suggest your local shop carries RaceDots.
Can we order custom RaceDots for my team?
Yes, you can! The minimum for a custom order is either 50 packs of four or ten. Contact us at info@racedots.com for details.
Will RaceDots interfere with RFID/RTLS/ANT timing devices?
No. We have contacted the top 8 manufacturers of timing system companies in the US and sent samples for testing, and so far we have not found any timing system that is affected by RaceDots. That said, we highly recommend not allowing RaceDots to sit on top of the timing device on your bib. While we try to stay current with all the many timing companies, timing technology is changing all the time. If you are a new timing company, please contact us to have a sample set of RaceDots sent to you for testing. If you are a competitor concerned about your upcoming race, please contact the race promoter to inquire if magnets affect their timing system. Many timing companies will allow you to test your bib or chip before the race, so take advantage of that opportunity if you have it.
Will RaceDots interfere with a pacemaker?
We are not medical professionals and cannot say however we recommend you err on the side of safety. We highly advise that you seek the advice of your doctor to determine if RaceDots are safe for you to use. We are more than happy to provide the specifications of our product or any other information that may be useful to anyone who needs to consult with his/her doctor.
What else should I know?
RaceDots are made from extremely strong magnets, so we highly advise that you keep them away from any flash drives, hotel room keys, or any electronics or media that may be affected by magnets. 99% of cell phones are magnetically shielded. Most credit cards have much better strips than they used to and tend to not be effected by magnets. When in doubt, play it safe and keep your 'dots away from important electronics.
I have a wicked nickel allergy. What do I do?
We now offer epoxy coated ring magnets, contact us for more information.
Can I sell RaceDots at my retail store or distribute RaceDots in my country?
Please contact us to ask about retail and/or distributor information.