How does a cyclist's power output differ when climbing versus time trialing?

Question

Being an avid cyclist myself, I am interested in the power difference of a cyclist while climbing as compared to being in the time trial position. Would you be able to provide further information on this?

Answer 1

The power output can depend on the position. While climbing, bikers normally fulfill their power output within the ATA, but in time trial position it could be lesser because of the aero position. Nevertheless, with appropriate biomechanics, V02 test and practice, it is indeed feasible to apply the same numbers on a TT bike as compared to those over the road bike.

Comments

We discuss:
0:01:38 - 2020 Tour de France win
0:06:54 - Learning from previous mistakes
0:09:04 - Training: simulating steep climbs and other challenging race conditions
0:11:49 - Tadej’s historic 2024 season and what contributed to his success
0:15:30 - Nutrition for optimal performance: offseason diet and carbohydrate intake during intense training sessions
0:18:51 - Training metrics: heart rate, power output, VAM, and HRV, and his approach to zone 2 training
0:28:11 - Epic climbs in the Tour de France, mindset after challenging stages, and rebuilding confidence after the 2023 Tour
0:36:35 - Racing dynamics, media criticism, and Tadej’s reflections on racing records
0:45:02 - Training in the off-season

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That “pause” after Tadej says 320-340 at z2 was me spilling my morning coffee

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The questions you asked and how he answered them all.  Incredible.  Maybe the best cycling interview I have ever heard.  The zone 2 at 320 is crazy given how light he is.

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340w zone 2? that’s insane

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Wow boy, that was a treat! Wish Tadej had more time. Maybe next time you should go with him for a 5 hour zone2 ride and try to record the podcast while riding on 320 watts!

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that was amazing!!!

Z2 is 320 for 5hrs omfg

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Its been fascinating to have so much insight regarding the physiology of one of the best cyclists of all time. Thanks for this awesomeness

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I'm only a few kgs heavier at 68 but 320watts is hauling! On a ride you'd be passing most average everyday cyclists uphill like they were standing still at that pace. And that's his cruising pace! Crazy!