(Originally written in 2009)
Time Trial Aerodynamics: Where Your Upgrade Dollars Really Matter
My first time trial was nine years ago at a Fiesta Island TT. I rode a Specialized M4 road bike with Spinergy Rev-X wheels and clip-on aerobars. Coming from a cross-country mountain bike background, and after dabbling in multisport the year before, I assumed time trialing would be easy.
I was wrong.
Time trial racing is one of the most technical disciplines in cycling. Fitness alone is not enough. It takes years to develop the position, pacing, and aerodynamic understanding required to perform well.
This article covers the basic aerodynamic lessons I have learned and how to prioritize equipment upgrades for maximum return.
Where Aero Time Is Really Gained
The following savings are based on multiple sources, wind-tunnel observations, and published test data. Values assume a rider traveling 30 mph at zero yaw over a 40 km course. These are estimates, not guarantees.
Handlebars (J. Cobb, Vision Tech)
| From | To | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Drop bars | Integrated aerobars | 2–4 minutes |
| Drops with clip-ons | Integrated aerobars | 15 sec–1 min |
Clothing (Rainer Pivit)
| From | To | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Jersey and shorts | Skinsuit | 29 seconds |
| Skinsuit | Add shoe covers | 13 seconds |
Wheels (J. Cobb)
| From | To | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 32-spoke box rims | Deep front / disc rear | 2–3 minutes |
| Deep front/rear | Deep front / disc rear | 30 seconds |
Frame (J. Cobb, Martin/Cervelo)
| From | To | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Round tubing | Aero tubing shapes | 30 sec–2 minutes |
Fork (Oval, J. Cobb, D. Bunce)
| From | To | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Round fork | Oval Jetstream | 35 seconds |
| Round fork | Ouzo Pro Aero | 30 seconds |
| Round fork | Hotta | 30 seconds |
Helmet (J. Cobb)
| From | To | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Road helmet | LG Prologue TT | 30 seconds |
| Road helmet | Taped vents | 10–30 seconds |
Key Equipment Priorities
Aero Wheels
Aero wheels alone can save about two minutes over 40 km compared to box rims. The fastest setup is a deep front paired with a disc rear. Examples include Zipp 808/1080, HED H3, Stinger 9, and most modern discs. Wheel choice should consider yaw behavior and handling, not just depth.
Aerobars
Aerobars are the single most important equipment choice on a TT bike. Integrated one-piece bars are faster than clip-ons. Wind-tunnel data shows aerobars can save up to four minutes over 40 km. Modern integrated systems from Profile Design, Zipp, Bontrager, HED, and Vision remain among the best options.
Aero Frames
Fit comes first. Aerodynamics come second.
Many frames claim to be aero. True aero design shows in tube shaping, rear-wheel cutouts, narrow downtubes, and aero seatposts. UCI legality also matters for championship racing. The fastest frame in the wrong position is still slow.
Top aero TT frame manufacturers include Specialized, Cervelo, Trek, Orbea, Kestrel, Felt, Corima, Quintana Roo, Pinarello, Colnago, and others.
Final Takeaways
Aero gear is expensive. Spend wisely.
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Position matters more than equipment. Always.
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Upgrade order for most riders:
-
Aero helmet
-
Skinsuit
-
Wheels
-
Frame
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Buy the fastest gear you can afford, but never at the expense of fit.