Windy TT / aerodynamics

AndROOb said:

I've got some 25mile out/back TT's coming up, and with the wind we're experiencing at the moment, it occurred to me that a good aerodynamic position is all very well when riding into the wind, but when riding with the wind behind me, is there any benefit from sitting up a bit(on the bull horns) to catch more wind?

That would be a pretty strong wind, to be net from the rear, something like 30+mph, right?

AndROOb said:

I've got some 25mile out/back TT's coming up, and with the wind we're experiencing at the moment, it occurred to me that a good aerodynamic position is all very well when riding into the wind, but when riding with the wind behind me, is there any benefit from sitting up a bit(on the bull horns) to catch more wind?

LOL. If the wind's that strong then bring a sail with you! :p

Seriously though, the power you output will be used to offset any resistance to movement -- primarily wind resistance at higher speeds. If there's a tail wind, it just means that the bike will continue to accelerate until there's a frontal wind resistance which nearly matches the power you are putting out. Tailwinds don't typically *push* on your back, as much as they reduce the amount of headwind you experience at a given speed.

Make sure you have plenty of gearing so you can put the power down at high speeds on the way back, and stay in that aero position. 🙂

This was just a thought I had, and have always stayed in an aero position, but I decided to pose the question so that I could get some feedback on the reality of the supposition.

RD: winsdpeed is currently 15-25mph w-sw(gusting)🙁 .

Thanks for your feedback, and any other relevant responses.

frenchyge said:

LOL. If the wind's that strong then bring a sail with you! :p

🙂

I'm running with this one..............
A large butterfly wing shape attached to your back, that the wind closes when you ride into it, and opens it up from behind you.😕 🙄 😉

With aerodynamics fast becoming the way to win a TT. . . . WHO KNOWS ?