Cycling FTP increase to improve race time

Bobby Patrick

Is it possible to estimate the cycling FTP increase needed to provide a specific time improvement in a given race (assuming all other factors are held constant)? I understand there are lots of other factors but just looking for some idea of how much I would have to increase my FTP to provide a time improvement of "X"... i.e. 30 minute improvement. Trying to guesstimate a goal for improvement this offseason to give me a target time improvement in a specific race (IMLOU) vs this years performance.

tim cronk

Bestbikesplit.com is your best bet to what if different power numbers.

Bobby Patrick

Thanks Tim! I'll check it out!

Al Truscott

I agree BBS offers a great what if....? engine. But it’s important to remember that FTP improvements really can’t be dialed up...what happens, happens, and you can’t count on any specific improvement despite best intentions. Usually, there is a progressive decrease in the increase. I.E., the first year one does disciplined frequent intense cycling intervals in the OS. improvements of 10-20% are common. Second year, 5-10%, and so on.

better to just do the OS, aim for consistent work, and Check into BBS at the end to see what has become possible, IMO.

Same with running/VDOT improvements.

Bobby Patrick

Very helpful! Thank you!