Time trial aerodynamics

[marmatt]

I recently purchased some clip on aero-bars for my bike to help with the TT stage of stage races. I'm a ways off from being able to purchase a TT bike and wondered besides the aero bars and my skinsuit what would be the next best investment? TT helmet? Wheels?(though they probably cost as much as a TT bike)

 

[gclark8]

Professional bike fit and set up with the aero bars is the next best investment: http://www.trysport.com.au/articles/main_articles_steepAngle.htm

 

[RapDaddyo]

Here's a pretty thorough analysis of the drag advantages of positions and different components http://www.cervelo.com/content.aspx?m=Engineering&i=Aerodynamics. Martin doesn't address rolling resistance, but that's worth looking into as well. Here's some data on some popular tires http://www.rouesartisanales.com/article-1503651.html. You can buy wind tunnel test data on specific wheels here http://www.biketechreview.com/consumers.htm. I bought the wheel database and it is a pretty comprehensive list.

 

[wilmar13]

I don't think you can go wrong with shoe covers bang for the buck... even if they don't make much real difference you feel faster and they are dirt cheap.

 

[wilmar13]

Here's a pretty thorough analysis of the drag advantages of positions and different components http://www.cervelo.com/content.aspx?m=Engineering&i=Aerodynamics.

That is good stuff except he seemed to make an error with the slower riders... given the reduced drag at 30mph, he then applies that to Cat5 rider who is going much slower to give an unrealistic time savings...Also I can't believe an aero frame can save you that much time over a standard in drag alone (if I believe it, I will be obligated to buy another frame )

 

[artmichalek]

Professional bike fit and set up with the aero bars is the next best investment: http://www.trysport.com.au/articles/main_articles_steepAngle.htm

I would have to agree. A good fitting and testing session will get you and your bike into a position that optimizes aerodynamics and power output. Until you're getting everything you can out of the gear that you have, buying more won't make you much faster.

 

[azdroptop]

Here's a pretty thorough analysis of the drag advantages of positions and different components http://www.cervelo.com/content.aspx?m=Engineering&i=Aerodynamics. Martin doesn't address rolling resistance, but that's worth looking into as well. Here's some data on some popular tires http://www.rouesartisanales.com/article-1503651.html. You can buy wind tunnel test data on specific wheels here http://www.biketechreview.com/consumers.htm. I bought the wheel database and it is a pretty comprehensive list.

Cool links! Thanks