Aerodynamic Analysis & Optimization
One Of The Two Most Important Factors In Time Trialing & Triathlon
Even The Smallest Modifications Bear Immense Potential
Find Your Fastest Position On The Bike!
The aerodynamic properties of your position on the bike are one of the most important factors for success, especially in triathlon and in time trials. Even if there is no wind at all, air resistance makes up a majority of the total resistance that you are pedaling against (80%+). Improving the aerodynamic properties of your position, and therefore reducing the air resistance, will allow you to go faster at a given power output. Vice versa, at a given speed you will need to produce less power. An Aerodynamic Optimization may be the fastest and most effective way of tapping your full potential and getting the most speed out of your hard training.
Methods & Procedure
There are two common methods to assess and optimize aerodynamics on a bike. One is to measure the bicycle and rider's wind resistance in a wind tunnel to find the bike's set-up and fit that has the lowest resistance. One of the disadvantages of using a wind tunnel is that itis quite difficult to fully assess the influence of the changed, aerodynamically improved, position on the rider's ability to produce power. Furthermore, it is impossible to evaluate the changes in handling due to the changed position.
A method that is more in step with actual practice is the use of a powermeter on an indoor velodrome. We conduct Aerodynamic Testing on Germany's largest wooden indoor track, in Frankfur/Oder. At a given speed we measure your power output and in a coordinated approach we will make changes to your position to successively find your fastest position without compromising your ability to produce power. As the aerodynamic properties of your position improve you will have to use less power to travel at a given speed. Since rolling resistance and friction of moving parts, such as hubs, cassette, chain, etc, stay the same, and since there is no wind on the track, despite some insignificant air movements, the only variable left is the aerodynamic characteristics of you and your bike. All test data is statistically analyzed and confirmed. All changes to your position are recorded to the millimeter and once your optimal position is found we will provide a detailed evaluation document with the results of your aerodynamics session. One session takes about 2-3 hours.
Who Should do an Aerodynamic Optimization?
Triathletes and time trial specialists will especially benefit from an Aerodynamic Optimization. This 2-3 hour long session is a highly effective way to get the most speed out of your power, by decreasing the air resistance of your bike fit. Despite the fact that the average saving is much greater, saving, let's say, just 5 Watts equals a time advantage of a few minutes over the Ironman Distance if you are traveling at 35km/h (21,9 miles/h). The longer the distance and the faster the speed you are traveling at, the more important aerodynamics become.
The biggest factor regarding the aerodynamics of you and your bike is your position on the bike. Even just small changes can result in major improvements, leading to achieving greater speeds at a given power output. Another factor is our bike. We test different equipment and accessory options like aerohelmets, wheels, etc.
Requirements
The higher the speed, the higher the effects of changes in aerodynamics. In other words, the higher the speed, the easier it is to identify and quantify aerodynamic differences. Therefore it is necessary that you are able to go at around 40k/h (25 miles/h) on a flat oval without wind for 10min. Due to the steep banking on the track it is also required that you have decent handling skills. For a beginner it may be hard to ride on the 45° banking around turns while in the aerobars. Prior to aeordynamic testing your position on the bike should have already been biomechanically optimized. It wouldn't make much sense to optimize a position aerodynamically that doesn't allow you to use your entire power.
Appointments & Fees
Appointments can be made upon prior arrangement. The number of participants per session is limited to 4 athletes. Prices at 400 € (per participant)
