Cyclingnews Labs: Insights from Wind Tunnel Testing and Bike Tech
Experts answer reader questions on aerodynamics, tire width, and testing protocols for cycling gear.
1Inaugural Ask CN Session
Cyclingnews launched its first Ask CN series, allowing subscribers to engage directly with the tech team behind CN Labs. The team, including Josh, Will, and Tom, addressed inquiries regarding their rigorous wind tunnel protocols, rolling resistance experiments, and future testing plans. This initiative provides exclusive access to industry-leading technical insights and comprehensive gear analysis.
2Standardized Testing Baselines
To ensure accurate comparisons across different testing campaigns, the team utilizes a 2016 Trek Emonda ALR as a permanent baseline. By keeping this bike unchanged in the office, they can verify performance shifts. In 2025, they confirmed that both the Emonda and a Scott Foil baseline were six watts faster than in 2024.
3Clothing Aerodynamic Variance
Testing various Kalas clothing tiers revealed an 18-watt difference between the fastest and slowest options. Interestingly, high-end garments showed significant performance variance, suggesting that fabric engineering is highly specialized for speed. Because results are rider-dependent, the team emphasizes that these savings should be interpreted with caution based on individual fit and position.
4Future Testing Pipeline
The team is currently evaluating the SL9 for review, though sizing constraints have delayed wind tunnel testing. While time trial bikes are not currently in the immediate pipeline, they remain a possibility for 2026. The experts prioritize tests that yield the most actionable data for readers, balancing fun experiments with rigorous, high-priority technical research.
5Mullet Wheel Configurations
The team previously planned to test reverse mullet wheel setups using Zipp 808 and 404 models in 2024 but ran out of time. Previous gravel testing showed that a 38mm front tire with a 2.0 rear was 1.1% slower than the inverse configuration. Future testing will revisit these specific aerodynamic combinations for gravel bikes.
6Cervélo Aspero-5 Status
The Cervélo Aspero-5 remains on the radar for future testing despite failing to arrive for the May gravel shootout. The team notes that the Aspero-5 offers different tire clearance capabilities compared to models like the Crux or Elara. These physical differences are critical factors for consumers making informed purchasing decisions regarding gravel race bikes.
7Benchmarking Older Frames
The team plans to benchmark older race bikes, such as the Focus Izalco Max and Venge Vias, against modern aero frames by 2027. This project aims to quantify the performance gap between 2016-era technology and current standards. They will continue to weigh bikes without pedals to maintain consistency across various rider-specific pedal system preferences.
8Tire Width Trade-offs
While wider tires offer comfort and grip, they are not inherently more aerodynamic on smooth surfaces. A 35mm tire on an optimized rim is 13 watts faster per tire on rough surfaces, but the benefit disappears on smooth tarmac. The ultimate choice requires balancing rolling resistance, aerodynamic drag, and the specific terrain being ridden.
9Yaw Angle Methodology
Wind tunnel tests focus on a narrow band of yaw angles because riders rarely experience wind beyond 15 degrees. Mathematical models show that the probability of extreme angles is negligible when factoring in ambient wind and forward motion. Testing outside this narrow range would be inefficient and provide no meaningful data for cyclists.
10Roubaix Setup Advice
The team is compiling personalized recommendations for the ultimate Roubaix bike setup based on their extensive testing data. By synthesizing findings from wind tunnel sessions and rolling resistance trials, they aim to guide normal riders toward optimal configurations. These insights will be shared in upcoming segments of the Ask CN series for subscribers.
11Aerodynamics of Facial Hair
Addressing a humorous inquiry from a rival publication, the team discussed the potential aerodynamic impact of moustaches. While clean-shaven faces are generally faster, the team plans to test if vertical handlebar-style moustaches could act as trip strips. This experiment is scheduled for 2027, with Will Jones designated as the primary test subject.
12Ongoing Research Commitment
The inaugural Ask CN session highlights the team's commitment to empirical, data-driven cycling journalism. By addressing reader questions directly, they bridge the gap between complex laboratory findings and practical application. Future editions will continue to explore the intersection of speed, comfort, and technology, ensuring readers stay informed on the latest industry developments.
Original article: Cyclingnews — Cyclingnews Labs: Insights from Wind Tunnel Testing and Bike Tech