As the season approaches I realize I can close up the gap in my TT position so it resembles more of a Leipheimer position than that of Tony Martin or Cancellara. I included a photo of Millar b/c he's sort of in-between. For me, it's just a question of going with up-turned aerobars and I can get close to the Leipheimer position without any loss of comfort.
I'm making the assumption that the "closed" Leipheimer position produces a better aerodynamic profile -- e.g. the wind encounters a single mass and glides around it. The Martin/Cancellara position seems to invite the wind in between the arms where it bounces off the rider's quads and mid-section. The only way I can test is via downhill coast and I will try this soon. If the Leipheimer position
is superior, why don't riders like Martin and Cancellara close the gap more? I realize Cancellara would win most TTs on a huffy mtb, but still, why not work on the position?
Thanks
Leipheimer closed gap:
David Millar medium sized gap reduced with upturned aerobars:
Tony Martin big gap:
Cancellara big gap:
