Originally Posted by
silversx80
The Scientific Method.
By introducing objective information gathering, a multitude of datum and data points, objective examination of results, and objective interpretations and conclusions, the game has changed. Old training adages can be validated, or dismissed. Rider and effort can be measured and compared to like datum. Different metrics can be analyzed, like diet, types of training plans, positions/fit, aerodynamics, etc.
The information has trickled down into types of improvements that can be made on the bike, off the bike, to the bike, and to the rider. We train better, rider better bikes, use better materials, waste less energy, and generally understand more about the human-machine connection.
Would it suprise you to know that there has only been roughly a 10% increase in speed since the 1960s concerning the TDF and virtually no increase in the last decade.
I think it goes a long way to show just how efficient bicycles are and just how efficient the human body is.