What kind of speed gains can a club cyclist expect from aerodynamic improvements?

Question

Suppose I am a club racer, making reasonable aerodynamic tweaks to both my equipment and my riding position; what kind of speed difference can I anticipate?

Answer 1

The average club cyclist can expect a 2-3 km/h increase for the same power input by optimizing their position. This consists of using the correct tires, getting the appropriate amount of fitted clothing, and perhaps investing in a few hardware upgrades. Even starting from a normal point, adequate refinements may be achieved, and additional expenditure on hardware may push those refinements even further.

Comments

I followed some of this advice and I gained so much WATTS my back keeps rolling uphill without me even pedalling. Amazing stuff.

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Some of these gains are small but remember that they are small for a long time. A lot of these race are 100 to 200 miles so 10 watts for 10 to 15 hours is quite a distance traveled or energy saved depending on how you look at it .  Thanks Dylan.

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Abus Gamechanger helmet, Michelin Latex Tubes and Turned-in shifters did the magic for me. I swear by them for speed gains.

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I enjoyed this series Dylan. Good questions, knowledgeable guest. Well done.

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It would be great if all these aero gain measures would be taken and discussed at more realistic speeds of 25-35 km/h. Moreover, they should be also put in the context of riding solo vs. riding in a bunch, as the power outputs (and the overall drag) at those respective speeds is clearly not the same.

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I would like to have heard more from Josh on the difference the aero bike might make as opposed to a brand's standard light bike. E.g. the Giant TCR vs the Giant propel, or the Cervello R5 vs S5. Also whether trying a hybrid approach - like the Tarmac - is best, or whether Speciallzed would have done better sticking with the Venge. But very helpful discussion; thanks.

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Important to remember that aero savings at 30mph will be significantly different to that possible at 20mph. Where do you spend most of your rides?