Bike w/crosswind

Dave Campbell

The race I'm doing this weekend has historically had a decent crosswind on most of the course, a little stretch of headwind, and virtually no tailwind.  Is there any technique for riding crosswinds in the 10-15 mph range that would yield a better bike split.  I've heard some talk about working into the wind by moving to the upwind side of the lane then "sailing" back.  Seems like a penalty waiting to happen.  Just curious?

mancona

this is probably not what you are looking for, but just relax and lean into the wind. Don't try to steer into it, fight it, or over compensate as that is just wasted energy that will slow you down. The faster you go the easier it is and also I find that if I hold a higher cadence in a strong headwind I'm more stable and therefore faster.

The last thing you want to do is coast or get out of being aero.

Just stay as smooth as possible and keep a nice stead power output. And make sure to ignore every one around you as they will likely be doing the wrong thing and going harder into the wind to keep their mph up.

GMAN 19030

I agree with Matt 100%. I'd also ask what wheel setup you're going with.

Dave Campbell

Thanks, I'll run my wheelcovered pt rear and a HED Alps up front. Last year the winds would move you around maybe 2-3 feet during gusts. Was pesky, but didn't freak me out. I like the smooth/steady approach.

GMAN 19030

You'll be fine with that setup. The Alps are 55mm deep or so. I run a Hed Jet 6/Jet Disc combo in windy as hell Texas and it has not been an issue.

 

Dave, what part of Raleigh do you live in?  I lived there from 1993-2004.  We lived near the Cary/Raleigh crossroads area.  I hated moving away.

Dave Campbell

Just North of 70, about 3 miles from Umstead Park. A great place to live and train.

Chris G

trying to sail back and forth across the road sounds like a really bad idea to me