Two aero experts weigh in on the latest wind-cheating improvements <\/p>
Aerodynamics represents pro cycling\u2019s latest arms race and the quest to ride faster for no more effort continues with the evolution of the latest gear and expertise.<\/p>
From ribbed skinsuits to turned-in hoods<\/a>, WorldTour riders are seeking ever-more innovative ways to slip through the wind and reduce their CdA \u2013 or coefficient of aerodynamic drag, which, in simple terms, combines frontal area with the drag coefficient of the shape.<\/p> Two aerodynamics experts at the leading edge of the wind-cheating conversation are Dr Jamie Pringle, applied sport scientist and part of the setup at Vorteq Sports, a world leader in cycling aerodynamics, and Dr Xavier Disley of AeroCoach, the component and aero consultancy company.<\/p> \u201cWe\u2019ve run 389 wind-tunnel sessions over the past four-and-a-half years with just shy of 300 individuals,\u201d said Pringle at last year\u2019s Science & Cycling Conference in Bilbao, lifting the lid on the company\u2019s innovative practices and going on to highlight the potential gains for riders.<\/p> \u201cAt the WorldTour level, the average improvement in CdA is 6.6 per cent, which equates to a 25-watts saving. At Continental and domestic pro level, we\u2019re looking at 6.9 per cent and a 21-watt saving. For top amateurs, it\u2019s 9.9 per cent and a 29-watt saving.<\/p> \u201cIt\u2019s over 600 hours of tunnel time. It\u2019s a lot of effort. But it\u2019s worth it as aerodynamics make a difference.\u201d<\/p> It\u2019s why we tapped Pringle up for his thoughts on the next-generation aero improvements that\u2019ll be enjoyed by professional and recreational riders alike. Like Pringle, Disley has also attracted the attention of World Tour teams<\/a> and riders because, in his own words, he\u2019s a \u201cnerdy aero geek\u201d.<\/p> Here, Pringle and Disley predict the drag-saving trends for 2024 and beyond.<\/p>