38 - Go Faster on the Bike Pt 1

7:30 wheelsDeeper is faster in conditions with side winds.The stronger the side wind, the greater the effectRear disk wheels are an excellent choice! But they are not always allowedBuy newer generation toroidal (rounded tip) wheels. Avoid ones that come to a sharp point.Michael’s pick for triathlon: 60mm + disk, with a 60mm rear as backupAndrew’s pick: 90mm + diskThere’s negligible aerodynamic performance difference between High end American / European brands and Chinese open mold+1 for aluminum brake surface wheels for improved breaking performance28:00 framesMost modern triathlon frames offer very similar aerodynamic performanceWhy you should be very skeptical of aerodynamic test data presented by manufacturersOptimal fit is the primary factor in selecting the ‘right’ frameStorage integration is becoming a design consideration and competitive advantage40:00 nutrition and hydration storage on non-integrated bikesBetween the arms bottles are both aerodynamic and convenientBehind the saddle bottle can also be quite aero, but are harder to accessTwo versions of BTA setups and their pros and consBest storage options for nutrition47:30 helmetsThe optimal helmet choice is heavily influenced by the rider’s preferred head positionHelmet priorities: safety, comfort, aerodynamics, coolingMIPS and similar novel safety featuresOur struggle to pronounce Chronic Traumatic EncephalopathyHelmet fit: front lip of the helmet should not be more than one finger width’s north of the eyebrowsAero recommendation: if your head is clearly above the line of your back, and you can hold it there, then a long tailed helmet is a good bet. If you keep your head low, then a short tail or tail-less helmet is the more aerodynamic choice.The strong case for aero road helmets: cooling and light weightFor a deeper dive into the aerodynamics of cycling, have a listen to episode 36, where we break it down.