WASTED WATTS: Saving That Precious Power
AERO AND CYCLING ... IT SEEMS THE TWO ARE virtually synonymous so far as the retail product and accessory markets go.
But how important is ‘getting aero’, is aero everything, and should it be a critical consideration for us mere mortals (read non-professional cycling enthusiasts).
Well yes it is, and here’s why. Hands up who enjoys riding into a headwind ... Anyone? anyone??
The thing is, whenever we are moving forward on a bike we are being restricted, to varying capacities, by air resistance.
Through a combination of how we are positioned on the bike, and the efficiencies of the frontal and surface areas of the gear and equipment we are using, those restrictions can be reduced.
Sure riding into wind may be beneficial in making you stronger, but conversely using less energy to go the same (or even a greater) speed will help you ride further, faster, and with less effort.
POWER GAMES
Just like power meters are our benchmark in monitoring output and watts are the unit of measure, high-tech wind tunnels are where more and more cycling-related products are put through their paces.
Many of the products showcased over these following pages have been extensively wind-tunnel tested and we have re-published the test results as supplied by the various companies.
Space and logistics restricted the extent of this ‘Wasted Watts’ feature – what we aim to do is outline where savings (so to speak) can be made and how you can benefit and ultimately get more out of your precious bike & training time.
HELMETS
KASK UTOPIA HELMET – 6 WATTS
It may come as no surprise that KASK’s Utopia helmet – the company’s premium aero product – was developed with Team Sky (now Ineos).
First worn by the squad during Geraint Thomas’
