The Art Of Aerodynamics In Triathlon: Making Every Gain Count
When it comes to triathlon, speed isn’t just about raw power, it’s also about efficiency. In the cycling leg, aerodynamics is everything. The more streamlined you are, the less resistance you face, meaning you can ride faster while using less energy. Over the course of 90K or 180K, those savings add up, leaving you fresher for the run and shaving valuable minutes off your race time.
But what exactly makes a triathlete aerodynamic? And how can you fine-tune your setup to gain those all-important watts?
Your Position: The #1 Factor in Aero Gains
Forget the latest disc wheels or teardrop-shaped helmets for a moment, your body accounts for about 80% of aerodynamic drag when cycling. That means your position on the bike is the biggest factor in cutting through the wind.
The goal? A lower coefficient of aerodynamic drag (CdA). The lower your CdA, the more efficient your ride. But there’s a catch, you need to find a position that balances aerodynamics, comfort, and control. After all, it doesn’t matter how aero you are if you can’t hold the position for an entire race or if it’s so uncomfortable that it affects your run.
How to Improve Your Aerodynamics
Want to ride faster without burning extra watts? Here’s how to refine your aero setup:
Optimize Your Position
Tuck your head, flatten your back, and minimize unnecessary movements to reduce drag.
A lower front-end setup helps, but only if you can sustain it for the full ride.
Keeping elbows tucked in and hands close together on aero bars creates a narrower profile, cutting through the wind more efficiently.
Measure Your CdA
Wind tunnel testing, while expensive, provides the most accurate results.
Field testing with a power meter and software like Aerolab or Notio can offer real-world data on how small tweaks to your position impact performance.
Invest in Aero-Optimized Gear (Once Your Position is Dialed In)
Aero helmets help smooth airflow over your head.
Deep-section wheels can reduce turbulence but must match the wind conditions you race in.
Tight-fitting tri suits reduce drag, unlike loose clothing that catches the wind. Hummingbird’s chooses BornBound tri-suits for comfort, aerodynamic capability, and quality. Check out all their products, here.
Saddle up - Maintaining a comfortable position is crucial for staying aero on your ride. Often overlooked, your seat makes a huge contribution to comfort, weight, and positioning when attempting to be as efficiently aerodynamic as possible. One way to instantly upgrade your comfort and positioning, is to choose a saddle from BiSaddle. BiSaddle developed the first ever patented adjustable saddle to deliver a pain free experience, keeping you locked in and slicing through the air.
Why Aero Gains Matter for Long-Distance Racing
In long-course triathlon, energy conservation is just as important as speed. Burning extra watts fighting wind resistance on the bike means less energy for the run. Over 90K or 180K, even minor improvements in aerodynamics can save minutes, which could be the difference between a new PR or struggling through the final kilometers.
The most effective position is one that allows you to maximize speed while minimizing effort—because the fastest rider isn't always the one putting out the most watts. It's the one cutting through the wind the smartest.
So next time you hop on your tri bike, ask yourself: Am I slicing through the wind, or am I fighting it? If it’s the latter, it’s time to get aero.
