I have often joked with friends that tossing that extra water bottle, or skipping a big breakfast were, $ for $, the least expensive ounces you could find if you wanted to lighten your bike. This blog entry is a nice summary of other, frequently overlooked, ways to lighten your bike. And definitely cheaper than a new carbon frame or wheelset.

AERODYNAMICS

Is going aero worth the cost (dollars and a more uncomfortable ride)? This YouTube video is a nice demonstration (and summary of the issues).

FACTS:

• Air drag - 80% you 20% bike (which is what aero will improve)
• Aero is a bit heavier, stiffer, and less comfortable

• 2 bikes Ð same positioning on the bike (1 aero vs 1 a high end racing bike) -li>10 minute ride 200w and 300w
• compare AVERAGE speeds with comparable power in watts

• 200 watts 19.2 mph vs 20.2 mph (aero)
• 300 watts 22.6 mph vs 24.2 mph (aero)

• Regular versus Aero
• wt bike +rider 75 kg and then 76 kg (for aero)
• drag coefficient* 0.88 0.7
• power 300w
• slope
  • 0 slope 10.01 m/s and 10.77m/s
  • 2 % slope 8.29 m/s and 8.75 m/s
  • -2% (downhill) 11.76 m/s and 12.83 m/s
  • 4% slope 6.73 m/s and 6.95 m/s
  • -4% slope 13.45 m/s and 14.81 m/s
  • 6% slope 5.45 m/s and 5.53 m/s
  • -6% slope 15.05 m/s and 16.68 m/s