Triathalon
Where your Strength Goes
AERODYNAMIC DRAG: This is the big one. 80% of the riders energy goes into overcoming wind resistance, and the faster you go, the harder it is to overcome. Aerodynamic drag comes from wind velocity, wind direction, speed of the bicycle, wheel rotation, and mostly, rider position. As a general rule, the shape of the bike and rider position has a far greater impact on speed than the bikes weight. This is why a good aerodynamic position is critical for the competitive racer.
ROLLING RESISTANCE: This is where the bike and rider weight is important. While much less energy consumptive than aerodynamic drag (only about 10% of energy used to propel the bike) rolling resistance still plays an important part in your potential speed. Rolling resistance comes from the weight of the bike and rider, tire pressure, tread pattern and the road surface.
BEARING FRICTION: Although a very small percentage, some strength is needed to overcome the friction of the wheel bearings. This is why good hubs are important.
DRIVETRAIN FRICTION: Frictional losses in the drivetrain can rob some of your strength. Sources of the friction are the chain, cogs, chain rings, derailleur pulleys and bottom bracket bearings. This is why it is important to keep your drivetrain clean.
POTENTIAL ENERGY: Another major consumer of your strength (about 10%). This can best be described as the power used to overcome changes in the terrain. When riding up or down hills, work is performed by or against gravity. Changes in the grade by as little as 1% can feel like adding several pounds to your bicycle.
"One thing you learn in racing is that they don’t wait for you." –Roger
Where your Strength Goes
AERODYNAMIC DRAG: This is the big one. 80% of the riders energy goes into overcoming wind resistance, and the faster you go, the harder it is to overcome. Aerodynamic drag comes from wind velocity, wind direction, speed of the bicycle, wheel rotation, and mostly, rider position. As a general rule, the shape of the bike and rider position has a far greater impact on speed than the bikes weight. This is why a good aerodynamic position is critical for the competitive racer.
ROLLING RESISTANCE: This is where the bike and rider weight is important. While much less energy consumptive than aerodynamic drag (only about 10% of energy used to propel the bike) rolling resistance still plays an important part in your potential speed. Rolling resistance comes from the weight of the bike and rider, tire pressure, tread pattern and the road surface.
BEARING FRICTION: Although a very small percentage, some strength is needed to overcome the friction of the wheel bearings. This is why good hubs are important.
DRIVETRAIN FRICTION: Frictional losses in the drivetrain can rob some of your strength. Sources of the friction are the chain, cogs, chain rings, derailleur pulleys and bottom bracket bearings. This is why it is important to keep your drivetrain clean.
POTENTIAL ENERGY: Another major consumer of your strength (about 10%). This can best be described as the power used to overcome changes in the terrain. When riding up or down hills, work is performed by or against gravity. Changes in the grade by as little as 1% can feel like adding several pounds to your bicycle.
"One thing you learn in racing is that they don’t wait for you." –Roger
