Performance Process

In this episode of Performance Process, we return to our conversation with Xavier Disley of AeroCoach to explore the practical side of aero testing.From wind tunnels to velodromes, on-road testing at home, and cutting-edge CFD tools, we break down the pros, cons, and real-world challenges of aero testing along with practical tips for each.Whether you’re optimising your position or debating the value of aero meters, Xavier shares expert insights and practical tips to help you understand the science, avoid common pitfalls, and get the most out of your aero efforts.

In this episode of Performance Process, we sit down with Xavier Disley, founder of Aerocoach, to dive deep into the world of aerodynamics in cycling.Disley is the "Aerocoach" and brings a wealth of experience on going faster with no extra effort, having worked with athletes from local time trialists to Grand Tour winners, not to mention his own racing endeavours which include a Masters Individual Pursuit World Championship title.On the industry side, his expertise span into aero testing, equipment development, a range of Aerocoach aero products including wheels, handlebars, plus various other components, and advising other manufacturers on how to create components that reduce drag and enhance performance.Whether you're an already optimised competitive rider or just starting to think about aero, Disley shares invaluable insights on how to make your setup faster.We discuss the critical aspects of aerodynamics, from clothing fit, rider position, and saddle angle, to choosing the right gear and our choice of tyre could be like adding an additional 1% gradient to your entire ride!Xavier breaks down the key factors every cyclist should consider to reduce drag and increase speed. Plus, he reveals some practical tips and tricks to help you ride faster with simple and free, yet effective adjustments.This is part one of a two-part series with Xavier, so stay tuned for the next episode, where we explore the world of aero testing—different methods, the pros and cons of each, and how they can help you take your performance to the next level.

In this episode of Performance Process, host Ronan McLaughlin is joined by Ken Ballhause of Sync Ergonomics and John Pitman, Head of Aerodynamics at the Australian Centre for Sports Aerodynamics. Together, they discuss the custom aerodynamics and aero bars that contributed to Grace Brown’s World and Olympic Time Trial gold medals. They also dive into the cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of aerodynamics in cycling.From “high-hand” positions and crank length to custom bike fitting techniques, they explore the intricate balance between equipment and rider optimisation.Learn why "bolt-on" aero solutions offer only marginal gains and why the body and bike fitting are the place to start in looking for the biggest gains.

Watts per kilogram has been the key metric to compare one rider’s power vs. another rider’s for decades already. The higher W/kg you can sustain... the stronger a rider you must be. While it is a critical indicator of climbing performance, however, W/kg does have its limitations when the road flattens out and even on undulating terrain.In this episode, host Ronan Mc Laughlin sits down with Xert’s Armando Mastracci to discuss why Xert is ditching W/kg and why XRP (Xert Relative Power) might be a better metric for comparing performances.They also discuss how Xert's unique performance metrics and AI-driven tools may help you make smarter decisions about your training, fueling needs, and race strategies. The pair also discuss Xert's adaptive training plans and performance metrics and whether AI is coming for coaches' jobs.