Originally Posted by
Seattle Forrest
With a pedal-based power meter, a PowerTap wheel, and a bunch of frames, we could find out whether this is true, and how big a deal it is if so.
This is true, and would be a relatively simple test.
Yet I have never seen data from such a test. Manufacturers are quick to say that frame X is stiffer than frame Y but have never seen data that it will save you some Watts and takes less effort to achieve the same result.
Road tests are also quick to say how well a bike accelerates or transfers power but again I have never seen data.
I am referring to efficiency of power transfer here, not because of weight or aero properties.