Bike test: Aero versus lightweight construction - 20 top racers in a big comparison test

Minimised weight or outstanding aerodynamics - two concepts that attempt to explore the limits of physics. Which approach is better? To find out, we tested one aero model and one weight-optimised model from each of ten manufacturers in the wind tunnel, laboratory and in practice.

Simulation: Which wheel is faster?

To make the interplay and interaction of weight and aerodynamics tangible, we calculate the riding time for a distance of 100 kilometres with three different profiles: Flat (500 vertical metres), undulating (1,000 vertical metres) and mountainous (2,000 vertical metres). To do this, we have to make some assumptions: Only the wheel weight and air resistance are taken into account, other aspects (such as rolling resistance, slipstream etc.) do not play a role. We assume a rider weight of 75 kilograms, a constant pedalling power of 200 watts and a sitting position with a brake grip. Although the results are of a more theoretical nature, they provide a good opportunity to categorise the relevance of aerodynamics and weight.

The results show that the aero model is the faster bike in almost all cases. Exceptions: In the case of Specialized and Look, the very clear difference in weight between the models is noticeable on the mountainous profiles, and in the case of Pinarello, the almost identical aerodynamics of the two bikes. All-rounders are the comparatively light aero racers such as the Trek Madone and the Canyon Aeroad, which hardly lose any time on the mountainous course compared to even lighter bikes.

At the bottom of the rankings are models that are designed as lightweight racers, but which lose this advantage by being equipped with disc brakes and can make up less ground compared to the aero specialists - such as the Scott Addict Disc, Merida Scultura Disc, but also the less aerodynamic Lapierre Xelius SL with a good 6.8 kilos.

All wheels, all times

The following table shows the simulated driving times for all 20 wheels - based on the three different terrains:

As an additional service, you will find the resistance curves of the wind tunnel test of all tested bikes here.

You can read the full article with all the bikes from Canyon, Cervélo, Giant, Lapierre, Look, Merida, Pinarello, Scott, Specialized and Trek in the February issue of TOUR. Here you can download the Order the magazine conveniently online.