In the earliest days of competitive cycling, bike builders and riders knew little about the science of aerodynamics and its impact on cycling. Technological advancements in the aerospace and automobile industries have made their way into cycling, allowing riders to pedal their machines farther and faster than ever before, due in large part to aerodynamic advancements. Advancements included the introductions of tribars, used by triathletes in 1987, and aero bars, in the Tour de France in 1989. Today, triathletes and cyclists both use the term "aero bar."
Clip-On Aero Bars
Triathletes and road cyclists use time-trial or short-course aero bars on road bikes for distances of 25 miles or less, where speed is more of a concern than comfort. Typically attached to standard road-bike handlebars, time-trial aero bars are short -- usually not extending out beyond the brake handles. Because they are relatively short, time-trial aero bars are light and aerodynamic. Time-trial aero bars are available in small, medium, and large sizes, but users are limited in their ability to adjust them.
Integrated Aero Bar
Integrated aero bars are the most important element for proper aerodynamics on a time-trial or triathlon bike. Designed for speed, aero bars are available in various designs. They are correctly fitted to the user and the bike, allowing the rider to remain in his tuck indefinitely except on hills. Generally, these bars have a lot of adjustability built into them for rider comfort. These one-piece aero bars are slightly heavier than the add-on variety; however, the aerodynamic advantages make them necessary gear for serious time-trial bikers and triathletes.
Aero Bar Advantages
Nothing limits bike speed more than the rider's own body. Proper use of aero bars reduces wind resistance by limiting the rider's frontal area. Although aero bars have little if any aerodynamic advantage on an incline, straight-line speed on a relatively flat, straight course can provide a 5- to 7-minute time advantage in a 25-mile time trial or triathlon bike leg.
Aero Bar Disadvantages
The rider's aerodynamic tuck position does not benefit the bicycle's maneuverability, which can lead to crashes. The compression of the rider's chest cavity, due to the close positioning of the hands and arms, limits his breathing during hard efforts. The aerodynamic tuck can limit inexperienced riders' use of the upward pedal stroke, limiting power output. During longer time-trial or triathlon distances, the rider can experience physical fatigue if his bike fit is incorrect.
References
- Competitor Network; Triathlete; Was the First Aerobar Really Not the First?; Jay Prasuhn; July 28, 2010
- Beginner Triathlete: Selecting the Right AeroBars for Triathlon; Matt Russ; March 4, 2008
- Bike Radar; Technique: Can Aero Bar Performance?; Nick Morgan; August 29, 2008
- Southern California Time Trial Series; Aerodynamics for Time Trial; Gary Tingley
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