Bytager the publication "Performance and comfort, the advantagestag"The pros and cons of modern hardware"
There's no denying that modern mid- and high-end bikes have taken new steps in performance in recent years. Stiffer, more aerodynamic, and with less rolling resistance, they allow you to ride faster, as evidenced by the rising averages in most amateur and professional races. But is it always better?tagthem for the average cyclist? Let's look point by point at what the most recent innovations have brought, but also at what drawbacks they can create..
By Guillaume Judas – Photos: @depositphotos.com /adobe.firefly.com
Thanks to carbon and the ingenuity of manufacturers, Today's bikes allow you to ride faster than a few years ago, for the same amount of effort.. But this performance gain is accompanied by some constraints which are not always to the taste of non-competitors.
The frame: ever more aerodynamic
Modern carbon frames are light, stiff and above all more aerodynamic.. Air resistance increases with speed, until it becomes the main resistance that opposes progress. Many models are aesthetically similar, because the engineers of the main manufacturers work with equivalent tools. They study the shape of the tubes by computer, with simulations of penetration in the air, before validating their choices in the wind tunnel and on the route with a whole battery of tests internal. Thanks to manufacturing processes that are also progressing and the mastery of manufacturers (often located in Asia), they can choose tube shapes optimized for aerodynamic gains while optimizing the weight of the structure and its rigidity. But be careful, we are talking here about controlled rigidity, which is not castrating in the high end, and which allows the frame to vivre by deforming furtively under the user's pedal strokes, in order to make it pleasant even after several hours of effort. A bare frame generally weighs between 700 and 1000 g, while being effective against the wind for the most upscale models.
However, The combination of a fast, light and responsive frame can be difficult to handle and ride in certain conditions for an inexperienced rider. At high speed, a racing machine totally dedicated to maximum performance can also stall and go out of the route if it loses contact with the bitumen, in the case of a hole or an irregularity in the bitumen for example.
And custom-made? For decades, a high-end frame (in steel) was necessarily synonymous with a chassis made to measure for the user, with tube lengths and seat tube and head tube angles chosen according to the type of practice. This had the advantagetagand to perfectly adapt the dimensions of the bike to the size of the cyclist and their way of riding, for comfort and fit. route. Today, due to very expensive manufacturing technologies with modern carbon bikes, this practice has almost disappeared. However, postural studies have also evolved considerably, and it is clear that today we encounter far fewer cyclists with tendonitis or other injuries of this type than 30 years ago.
The pilot's posttage: ever more integrated
The advent of disc brakes and electronic drivetrains with more flexible brake lines and wires (or lack thereof) that are more flexible than traditional cables have made it possible to integrate all of this inside the handlebars, stem and head tube, resulting in a more compact rider position.tagand more refined, just like the whole frame. In addition to the aesthetic aspect, this technology also offered significant aerodynamic gains..
Recent developments in carbon construction have also made it possible to reduce the weight of the handlebars and especially the handlebar/stem combo, while maintaining excellent strength and rigidity. The shapes have been optimized to further reduce air resistance on a very exposed part of the bike.
However, This technology greatly complicates maintenance, because each part change involves completely dismantling the front part of the bike. Which limits maintenance possibilities for those who are not equipped like professional mechanics.
Integrated handlebars have the major disadvantage of not being adjustable in tilt. (since the handlebar is often integral with the stem, with some exceptions), and their shape in curvature, height and depth is imposed by the choice of the manufacturer, which can sometimes present comfort problems for certain users.
Finally, to reduce the frontal surface of the bike and the cyclist in position, again with the aim of improving air penetration, the trend is towards narrower handlebars than a few years ago, a choice often imposed by manufacturers on the rider positions.tage delivered with the bikes. This results in less maneuverability at the steering level (due to the reduced lever arm with narrow handlebars), and sometimes more discomfort in terms of the rider's position, especially on climbs.
Ever higher wheels
Thanks to carbon, the rims are higher while maintaining a reasonable weight compared to old aluminum wheels. Higher rims mean more aerodynamics again., although different factors come into play, such as the shape and width of the rims, but also the spokes, the way they are connected to the rim, or the shape of the hubs. However, the aerodynamic gains to be expected from this type of equipment are much lower than those that can be expected from a modern frame, a good position of the cyclist on his machine and suitable clothing. The fantasies of cyclists around the wheels are therefore often far from the real results for this type of equipment.
The higher the rims, the more effective they are in certain situations, especially with a tailwind. But They provide side wind resistance which can make the bike difficult to rideThey are therefore more uncomfortable in the long term than lower rims on varied routes, requiring constant attention, and can even be disabling on steep slopes.tagand because of their inertia.
Disc brakes have imposed a new type of wheel attachment to the frame, with through axles. In this respect, it is beneficial for everyone since the gain in lateral rigidity is uncontestable, without causing discomfort.
Always less rolling resistance thanks to tubeless tires
In recent years, Huge strides have been made in rolling resistance, mainly thanks to tubeless tires. These have even largely replaced traditional tubular tires among professionals. And among amateurs, their practical side is appreciable, with many punctures instantly repaired while continuing to ride, thanks to the preventative liquid.
Tubeless tires also offer aerodynamic gains compared to tubulars when combined with rims whose external width matches that of the tire sidewalls. The trend is also towards wider sections, from 28 to 30 mm for competitive use, which provides grip and comfort with lower inflation pressures than with tires with a smaller section.
But tubeless technology still has some significant drawbacks. On some punctures, the liquid is not enough, and it is still necessary to repair with an inner tube. Unclipping a tubeless tire is often problematic on the side of the road. route, and the montagis and demontagThey must be carried out in accordance with the rules of the art especially with enough pressure to slam the tire against the rim to obtain the necessary seal. Some wheel manufacturers have also opted for hookless rims, which require a limited choice of compatible tires, and which prohibit an inflation pressure higher than 5 bar, at the risk of coming off the rim.
tubeless also requires the addition of preventative liquid which is complicated to handle outside of a workshop or garage, whether during the monthtagand of the tire or its demontage. In the event of a puncture, the liquid, which is latex-based, spreads over the bike and onto clothing and is difficult to clean.
Faster, more versatile transmissions
Electronic transmissions provide greater precision and speed in gear changes.. They are associated with applications that offer customization possibilities, with multiple, synchronized or semi-synchronized gear changes that are very pleasant to use. The latest versions of high-end transmissions are even wireless, at least at the driver's station.tage, which allows the handlebars to be further refined and provides more flexibility in steering compared to cable transmissions.
These electronic derailleurs work with batteries, which must be recharged after about 1000 km, otherwise the gear changes will no longer work. Those who go on adventure bike rides may find this system less autonomous than a conventional drivetrain., in addition to being significantly more expensive to replace in the event of a breakdown or breakage.
Thanks to the 12-speed cassettes, the gear range is extended, which gives the bike more versatility. But despite the 12 sprockets, The extreme developments of cassettes offered by manufacturers remain little used by amateur practitioners, in particular by those who live in regions with little difference in levelIn theory, cyclists therefore have 12 sprockets with two chainrings, but only use seven or eight different ratios on a daily basis, with gear jumps in the middle of the cassette which are detrimental to pedaling comfort.
Much more effective brakes
Over the past ten years, disc brakes have gradually succeeded in establishing themselves on road bikes. route. This is an advancetagand undeniable in terms of safety, especially in wet conditions. Flexible, powerful and progressive, disc brakes are heavier than rim brakes, but they allow for better integration of components, which is both more aesthetic and more aerodynamic. With braking applied to a disc and no longer to a rim, This system limits the need to ride with several different pairs of wheels depending on the conditions.

This system also requires less maintenance, with less frequent hose, oil and pad changes than the previous system's housing, cable and pad changes. However, it is still more difficult to carry out maintenance yourself, without good mechanical knowledge, suitable tools and the necessary space. Conditions which continue to put off the most recalcitrant, fans of a simpler system which can be adjusted in a few minutes before the start of a race, for example.
Additionally, disc braking involves more precautions when transporting the bike. The calipers are very precisely adjusted to limit friction with the discs, and they can become out of adjustment when the bike is transported in the trunk of a car, or in a cover for taking the train or plane. The brake levers should also not be manipulated if the wheels are not mounted on the bike, at the risk of moving the pads towards the inside of the caliper. This complicates the reassembly.tagand the bike before riding for the less handy.
More and more information on meters
Modern meters provide more and more information, for measure data from the bike ride, or for guidance by following a GPS track. They can be connected to different sensors that indicate heart rate, cadence, power, and even allow you to receive messages. A comfort for those who like data, but a nightmare for riders who are not familiar with electronics. Especially since the relatively limited autonomy of this type of device also requires you to think about recharging or changing the battery. An additional mental burden for those who like to ride on instinct, or in total autonomy. Focusing on data also encourages disconnection from the landscape and loss of independence.. Because sometimes, you have to get used to the idea that a meter can bug, or simply lose the GPS signal.
Outfits that help you ride faster
The outfits worn by runners and offered by manufacturers are not left behind in terms of performance gains. The materials, and especially the fit, have made it possible to greatly limit the folds that disrupt air penetration.. To be convinced, just compare the average speed and power of a ride done in winter with several layers of more or less loose clothing with those of a ride done in the middle of summer on the same route: by producing an equivalent effort, you ride much faster with a thin and fitted jersey. Among the pros, most riders now use a wetsuit (with a few thin pockets) rather than the traditional jersey/bib shorts set, in order to reduce air resistance as much as possible.

But for the Sunday cyclist, a tight outfit isn't always the most comfortable. This type of outfit is designed for fit athletes., who maintain a certain comfort with what they consider to be a second skin. A pure amateur can quickly feel cramped, uncomfortable, and highlighting a few bulges is not pleasant either.
These lightweight outfits offer very little protection in the event of a fall.. If the problem already arises for runners who do it for a living, it can become truly inconceivable for an occasional athlete who rightly wants to limit the risks during his practice.
A sport in constant evolution
Whether we want it or not, Cycling is a partly mechanical sport, and developments in this direction for greater performance are inevitable.. However, some of these developments are not suitable for all types of practitioners, especially when they reduce comfort.

Seeking to improve performance, regardless of level of practice, is a laudable goal in itself, but in this case it is necessary to remain consistent until the end.. A state-of-the-art equipment doesn't make much sense if you add a few accessories for your comfort during your bike rides. For example, a saddle or handlebar bag with repair kits, tools or supplies easily adds 4 to 500 g to your bike. Two large water bottles add a good kilo. In the end, that's 2,5 kg more that you add to your 7 kg bike that you paid the price of a used car.
Monitoring the evolution of the equipment must therefore remain above all a considered approach based on your way of riding.
Bytager the publication "Performance and comfort, the advantagestag"The pros and cons of modern hardware"
Totally agree !!!