Their conclusion: "We found that more than anything else, frontal area, which is determined almost entirely by rider position and clothing, affects a bicycles aerodynamics."
Tidbits:
- Going from hoods to drops saves 7% drag.
Full tuck reduces drag 38% (!)
Lowering stem 2 cm saves 5%
Tight fitting jacket (vs snug jersey) adds 4% (And you thought I took my jacket off 'cause I was hot!
)
Loose jacket adds 12%
Fenders and mud flap (except for Eric's
) may actually reduce drag, but results not statistically significant.
Maybe a diet for a skinsuit most of all? I hear there are now suits for masters with "control zones".
On another note, I saw that Oakley made a specific time trial sunglass for Cancellera with a higher top, so he can see from a lower position.
What's next, trimming eyebrows to see under them better?
