Originally Posted by
pallen
Maybe that's because people don't often study things that are obvious.
It was "obvious" that heavy objects fall faster than light ones. Until Galileo actually bothered to test it.
I know in steep climb, while standing, there are very different lever dynamics going on.
The biomechanics are certainly different. If you're curious: In terms of forces making it to the pedals, this is what's going on when you are standing.
You can't tell that this is going on, based on subjective measures. Human beings are not born with pedal-based power meters implanted in their feet.
Again, I assure you that none of the pros he worked with would race on platforms. My point is that the study you are looking at was not targeted to study what we are discussing here.
"Targeted," no. "Relevant," yes. Several respondents are repeating the flawed, subjective, unproven idea that "you add power to the drivetrain on the upstroke!", and it has become necessary to cite the studies in what appears to be a vain attempt to correct their error.
In addition, the point is that on the upstroke, all you're really doing is lifting your leg. You might do this in a slightly more effective manner with foot retention, because you will have better contact and control. But the action, and thus the muscles used, are essentially the same.
Plus, at no point in this thread have I advocated platforms, especially for pros. As I've said nearly a dozen times already, all I'm saying is that cyclists do not apply power to the drivetrain on the upstroke, even with foot retention.