Originally Posted by
airfoil71
Teaching in a research based field, I am aware of the placebo affect and it is a possibility. I also know there is some research that suggests that aero helmets can reduce wind drag 13%.. I do know, I now consistently ride 2 miles an hour faster than before I had the helmet and some of that could be psychological and better fittness but the biggest part of any sport is subjective in nature. The only concrete thing we have to go by is the data and unless my computer is broke, it reads two miles and hour faster. Also, the geometry of the TT bike puts more emphasis on the gluts and hamstrings rather than more focus on the quads. The gluts are by far more powerful than the quads and coupled with a very stiff bottom bracket equals better power transfer. Probably a combo of factors made the improvement... Just was looking for some input on disc covers.. I also understand that one glove does not fit everyone. I will probably give them a try, and maybe my mind will boost what they will actually do. I will take 1.5% plus the subjective end also.
The study that always gets referenced is from MIT, and it says an aero helmet is worth 1 minute in a 40K. That's way below 2mph. Moreover, I believe that was done using speeds higher than your 23 mph. Also, the actual real world advantage is likely less than the study suggests, when you consider the effect of how the rider holds his head (drop your head and the tail on the aero helmet may increase your drag) and differing wind angles.
I've done a fair number of TT's, (including a State Championshp) and I can guarantee you for me personally an aero helmet does begin to increase my speed even 1 mph.