Abstract
Recreational cycling and professional cycle tours have prompted cycle components and accessories to be designed with drag reduction as a first priority. This is especially so in the case of bicycle wheels. This paper describes wind tunnel tests carried out on a number of designs of racing bicycle wheels ranging from a standard 32 spoke wheel, through wheels with aerodynamic rims and spokes, to a solid disc wheel to determine the axial drag and side force coefficients on the wheels and to make comparisons. The tests were performed at relative wind velocities (30–60 km/h) and yaw angles (0–30°) corresponding to those encountered by the racing cyclist. Each wheel was found to exhibit its own particular characteristic curve which was only weakly influenced by the wheel rotational speed. The aerodynamically designed wheels showed reductions in axial drag of up to 50% when compared with the spoked wheel. The corresponding side force however increased. Cognizance should be taken of local atmospheric conditions when deciding on the design of wheel to use in a particular event.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
