Virtual Wind Tunnel
Aerodynamic analysis shouldn’t just be reserved for the professionals, or those with very deep pockets, that’s why we offer sessions in our virtual wind tunnel.
The concept is very simple- the vast majority of the drag which acts upon a cyclist (i.e. what stops you going faster) is down to aerodynamic drag, the largest component of which is the frontal area of the rider and bike exposed to the wind. If we can measure and quantify this frontal area, it becomes possible to make modifications to the riders bike and body position in an effort to reduce the area and therefore reduce drag and go faster for the same effort. Although drag is a 3D concept, and can be altered hugely by the shape of an object, it is illegal in almost every cycling discipline to add a fairing to the back of the rider or bike. This means that the 3D component of drag is actually less in this instance than it would be normally.
Ours was the 3rd system of this kind installed in the UK (behind Team Sky and NoPinz) so we have now had plenty of experience with riders ranging in age, gender, flexibility and discipline.
As an example, with an Ironman triathlete we took the existing position as a benchmark, and improved it by 12 watts. This means it takes 12 watts less effort to get the rider moving through the air at the target speed. On the other hand, with the rider still comfortable enough to produce the same power, they will be riding 0.7kph faster, or almost 7 minutes over an Ironman!
Ryan Perry (Team Raleigh GAC & Multiple national TT champion) summed up his session like this:
“Frontal area really is the main player in going faster and this software seems to measure it superbly. It was brilliant to try multiple positions in such a short space of time and see immediate results”
On the track, a national masters level pursuit rider had this to say: “Tried the new position out today on the track & took 1.5 secs off my PB…my coach said its the best he’s seen me ride”
The key with all the changes we make is that they have to be sustainable for the duration of the target event, be that 4km on the track or 180km of an Ironman.
Each session is tailored to the riders goals, including measurements taken at the target intensity, in race kit with the riders own helmet. Different options can then be explored, including but not limited to helmet options, handlebar adjustments and changes in body posture.
A full session costs just £175 (saving £££s on a traditional wind tunnel analysis), and includes 2.5-3 hours of measurement and adjustment.
If you require more information, or to book a session then please call 01285 851946 or email andy.kirk@performancecycles.co.uk.