How Pro Cycling Tech Shapes Your Cycling Clothing
In the fast-paced world of professional cycling, where victories are measured in seconds, teams are constantly seeking that extra edge - How this pursuit of speed is not only shaping the pro peloton but also influencing the cycling apparel we all wear on our weekend rides.
The Science Behind Your Cycling Jersey
On March 27th, 2024, at the cutting-edge Bikevalley wind tunnel in Tessenderlo, Belgium, Verge Sport joined forces with the Intermarché-Wanty professional cycling team to test and develop their latest innovations in cycling gear. The focus was on speedsuits, but the implications reach far beyond just pro-level time trial equipment.
Rune Herregodts, a time trial specialist for Intermarché-Wanty, was the day's test subject. Alongside him stood Adriaan Helmantel, the team's aerodynamics expert, whose experience includes work with world champions. Their goal? To scrutinize every stitch and seam of Verge's cycling apparel, seeking those marginal gains that can make all the difference in a race.
Numbers That Matter for Every Cyclist
The testing process was meticulous, with Herregodts cycling through a series of prototype suits from Verge Sport. In time trial suits, improvements of up to 4 watts at 55 km/h were observed. For sprint suits, the gains were even more impressive, with new designs showing advantages of up to 20 watts over current models.
But what do these numbers mean for the average cyclist? While most of us aren't racing in the pro peloton, the technology and design principles that make these suits fast trickle down to everyday cycling clothing. The aerodynamic features that save watts for pros can translate to more comfortable, efficient rides for cyclists of all levels.
From Pro Tech to Your Cycling Wardrobe
Verge Sport's approach demonstrates how high-level testing influences the cycling apparel available to all riders. The same principles that make a speedsuit aerodynamic – strategically placed seams, specialized fabrics, and optimized fit – are applied to their regular cycling jerseys and bib shorts.
"While the average cyclist might not be pushing 55 km/h, the comfort and efficiency gains from well-designed cycling clothing are noticeable at any speed." explains Gino de Geest from Verge Sport, who was present at the wind tunnel tests. "Whether it's a better-fitting cycling jersey that doesn't flap in the wind or bib shorts that stay comfortable in an aerodynamic position, these improvements enhance the riding experience for everyone."
Real-World Results
The true test of any cycling gear comes on the road. Following the wind tunnel session, Rune Herregodts put Verge's new RFF Go Fast speedsuit to the test in the ZLM Tour. The result? Victory in the time trial stage and the overall race win.
This success isn't just a win for the pros. It validates the design principles that Verge Sport incorporates into all their cycling apparel. When you pull on a Verge cycling jersey for your next group ride or sportive, you're benefiting from the same attention to detail and performance-driven design that propels pro riders to victory.
Bringing Pro Tech to Your Ride
The exciting part for cycling enthusiasts is that Verge Sport makes this pro-level technology accessible. The same RFF Go Fast and RFF Sprint suits tested in the wind tunnel are being adapted into Verge's consumer line of cycling clothing. This means that whether you're shopping for a new cycling jersey, bib shorts, or even a full cycling kit, you can enjoy apparel that's been informed by the highest levels of the sport.
"Our goal is to make every cyclist feel like a pro." de Geest adds. "The cycling apparel you see in our stores carries the DNA of what we develop for world-class athletes."
The Future of Cycling Apparel
As our understanding of aerodynamics and fabric technology continues to evolve, so too does the potential for performance gains in all levels of cycling gear. Verge Sport's experience with Intermarché-Wanty shows how the line between pro-level and consumer cycling apparel is blurring.
From wind tunnels to your local bike paths, the pursuit of better cycling clothing continues to shape the sport at all levels. As cyclists, when we slip into our favorite cycling jersey or bib shorts, we're not just wearing a piece of clothing. We're benefiting from years of research, testing, and real-world performance – a testament to cycling's endless quest for improvement.
Whether you're aiming for a new personal best or simply enjoying a comfortable Sunday ride, remember that your cycling apparel is doing more than just looking good. It's a piece of advanced engineering, designed to enhance your ride, one pedal stroke at a time.
