We often talk about wind tunnel, the effects that aerodynamics have on performance and the tests carried out on bicycles. On rare occasions we have asked ourselves whether there is a bicycle specification.
The answer is yes, it exists, it is located in Paal and is perfectly integrated into the seat of Ridley (in the showroom), inside the Bike ValleyWe were there and asked some questions to Daan Teugels, responsible for the wind tunnel and the Aerodynamics Project.
A slow-speed wind tunnel
"This wind tunnel – explains Teugels – is located inside the headquarters of the Belgian Cycling Factory and extends in length just above the bicycle showroom. It is the first gallery that technically it is called “slow speed" This is because it is entirely dedicated to the bike and everything that revolves around it. Here, we conduct comparative tests, efficiency tests, and, of course, how pure aerodynamics affects performance.
«We use a proprietary CFD module, customized by us and tailored to the needs of cyclingThis brings significant advantages, especially when compared to other wind tunnels that analyze different product categories. Wheels, helmets, and technical clothing, the same positions as the riders, here aerodynamics applied to cycling finds its kingdom».
Are the gallery numbers replicable in real life?
The answer is no, or at least not entirely, but the main goal of a wind tunnel I say provide a working basis and understand what even the smallest advantages areIt is always necessary to consider that the biggest variable is the athlete. Wind tunnel analysis provides objective basic and material data.
Is the biggest variable the rider?
Yes exactly. About 80% of the total resistance generated is due to the cyclistThe athlete's position and, obviously, the bicycle itself, influence spatial resistance. For example: the difference between an upright position and an aerodynamic position is about 50 WattsThe difference between normal racing clothing with a road helmet, compared to a specific time trial bodysuit and wearing a time trial helmet, with the second option you save about 15 Watts. Working on the components and tools that the athlete uses, evaluating them in the wind tunnel, allows us to reduce the influence of variables.
How many tests are done in a year?
Indicatively 150 in total, but it depends on the period. The most intense is the winter and early spring one, where new equipment is tested and riders optimize their position on the bike. The period with an almost total absence of tests is the one between the end of the summer period and autumn.
Are there companies outside of Bike Valley that use this wind tunnel?
Certainly, many companies invest in and develop clothing, helmets and of course bicycles. Several American bicycle brands use this wind tunnel.
What speed can the simulated wind inside reach?
The maximum speed we can reach with our wind tunnel is 108 kilometers per hour. However, the maximum speed used is 80, as our underlying exposure needs to remain intact. 80 is a very real value when compared to external conditions of extreme wind.
Is there an optimal wind range within which the tests are carried out?
Most tests fall within a range of speed between 35 and 60 kilometers per hour and a yaw angle between minus 15 and 15 degreesConditions outside these ranges are very rare.
What is the most difficult factor, if any, to analyze?
The biggest obstacle to aerodynamic gains on bicycles is that every item of clothing, Every equipment and positioning is different for every cyclistThere's rarely a fast tool that fits everyone. That, of course, also makes it very interesting. Aerodynamics is very individualistic and it depends a lot on the body type and flexibility of the person.
Was there a test that was more difficult to develop than others?
As I was saying earlier, aerodynamics are individual, every test and trial, every single situation is difficult to replicate. However, in the past, when Tony Martin he was still a rider, right here We conducted tests for the development of the time trial clothing for the German national teamWhat they had at the time was not very efficient in terms of aerodynamics and the national team staff asked for the contribution of Bioracer, company of the Bike Valley with which we actively collaborate.
And what did you do?
We created a cast of Martin's body, which faithfully portrayed his position on the time trial bike. We noticed that his right shoulder was lower than his left.. Thanks to this information Bioracer created a custom bodysuit for the German champion and subsequently the position on the time trial bike was also modified to make it more efficient.The history of his achievements speaks for itself.
How much does a test cost?
They are 500 euros for an hour, regardless of the subject of the test.
