@Canva.com: Jonathan Borba

Cycling has developed enormously in recent years and is now compared to Formula 1. In all areas, people try to make optimizations. We show you how you can increase your speed in a simple way.

It is important to understand that air resistance, and thus aerodynamics in cycling – just like in Formula 1 – is crucial. Already from 18 km/h, aerodynamics is the dominant resistance. Only when you ride slower does weight play a bigger role. This means that you and your bike should not only be light but above all aerodynamic. Unless you ride a pure mountain race and are always below 18 km/h.

The four most important levers

1. Better clothing

The days when Tour de France riders rode over the Alps with flapping jerseys and flowing hair are over. Loose clothing slows you down a lot. Helmets are not only safe but also aerodynamically designed to give a time advantage. As an amateur cyclist, you have to weigh whether you are willing to accept less ventilation for the helmet’s aerodynamic benefits. As for clothing, there is only one solution: the tighter it fits, the faster you are. This starts with aero socks, goes through a skinsuit, and ends with an aerodynamic helmet and matching glasses.

2. More aerodynamic position

The rider’s body accounts for 80% of air resistance. Therefore: lower your head, keep your back flat, and hold your arms close. This works best when your hands are on the brake hoods.

3. Faster wheels

It is worth investing in fast wheels, as they act like airfoils and let you ride faster. The downsides – apart from the cost – are higher steering forces and instability.

4. Aerodynamic road bike

The bike accounts for only around 20% of total resistance, but the difference between a modern aero bike and a “normal” road bike is still substantial.

The entire system makes the main difference

All four points make you faster. However, it should be added that speed on a bike does not necessarily mean comfort, and optimizing speed mainly makes sense for competitive riders.

If you want to refine your pace, the greatest gains come when you manage to combine everything from clothing to posture to equipment. Only the complete system of bike and rider makes a road cyclist fast. All equipment must function as one with the rider.