Does an eccentric chainring improve conventional parameters of neuromuscular power?

Abstract

This study compared the conventional parameters of anaerobic cycling power in physically active non-cyclists using the Pro-Race system and a traditional chainring. The force-velocity test was chosen for this purpose because it is the shortest validated cycling laboratory test in which each parameter of maximal anaerobic power can be estimated. The power output (W(max)) and the force at which W(max) is produced (F(opt)) were significantly improved with the eccentric chainring (1100+/-227W versus 1006+/-197W and 1.39+/-0.15N/kg body mass versus 1.13+/-0.16N/kg body mass with the eccentric and round designs, respectively; P<0.006 and P<0.0004, respectively). The power gained (delta power) was significantly correlated with the eccentric chainring F(opt) (r=0.649; P<0.05), the mid-thigh circumference (r=0.685; P<0.05), the estimated lean thigh volume (r=0.765; P<0.01) and the estimated lean lower limb volume (r=0.665; P<0.05). We concluded that the eccentric chainring significantly improved the estimated anaerobic power output during a force-velocity test by increasing the force component, F(opt). Cautious interpretation of our results suggests that the subjects with physical attributes that contribute to developing high forces may have a significant advantage in performing with the eccentric chainring.