Tests of Cycling Performance

Abstract

Performance tests are an integral component of assessment for competitive cyclists in practical and research settings. Cycle ergometry is the basis of most of these tests. Most cycle ergometers are stationary devices that measure power while a cyclist pedals against sliding friction (e.g. Monark), electromagnetic braking (e.g. Lode), or air resistance (e.g. Kingcycle). Mobile ergometers (e.g. SRM cranks) allow measurement of power through the drive train of the cyclist's own bike in real or simulated competitions on the road, in a velodrome or in the laboratory. The manufacturers' calibration of all ergometers is questionable; dynamic recalibration with a special rig is therefore desirable for comparison of cyclists tested on different ergometers. For monitoring changes in performance of a cyclist, an ergometer should introduce negligible random error (variation) in its measurements; in this respect, SRM cranks appear to be the best ergometer, but more comparison studies of ergometers are needed. Random error in the cyclist's performance should also be minimised by choice of an appropriate type of test. Tests based on physiological measures (e.g. maximum oxygen uptake, anaerobic threshold) and tests requiring self-selection of pace (e.g. constant-duration and constant-distance tests) usually produce random error of at least approximately 2 to 3% in the measure of power output. Random error as low as approximately 1% is possible for measures of power in 'all-out' sprints, incremental tests, constant-power tests to exhaustion and probably also time trials in an indoor velodrome. Measures with such low error might be suitable for tracking the small changes in competitive performance that matter to elite cyclists.

Current hydration guidelines are erroneous: dehydration does not impair exercise performance in the heat

“…Participants were instructed to complete the 25 km in the fastest time possible, with only ‘distance completed’ provided as feedback. The reliability of cycling time trials over similar distances have been reported to be good, typically eliciting a random error of between 2% and 3% 19. During the time trial, power output was recorded at a frequency of 1 Hz, and heart rate was measured using a Polar 810i heart rate monitor (Polar Electro Oy, Finland) at 5 s intervals, with 1 km average values reported.…”

Vo2requirement at different displayed power outputs on five cycle ergometer models: a preliminary study

“…Paton and Hopkins12 reported a systematic error of 6% to 12% at high intensity in electromagnetic ergometers, whereas Clark and Grennleaf23 observed an overestimation of 3% going up to 50% at high workload after 1 hour of work. Consequently, Lifecycle underestimates the standard Vo 2 of −10% to −15% at 100 to 300 W. Thus, an overestimation of the PO also results in a relatively low Vo 2 at any displayed PO or a high mechanical efficiency value when Vo 2 is directly measured.…”

“…Recently, the Monark 814e was still used to validate the performance and metabolic measures of Lode Excalibur Sport ergometer during a Wingate Anaerobic Test 11. The PowerTap device PO is approximately 8% higher than the one displayed by the SRM crank set 12. These results differ from the study of Bertucci et al 13 showing that PowerTap device is a valid and reliable mobile power meter during submaximal intensities when compared with the scientific SRM model.…”

Reliability of a 2-Bout Exercise Test on a Wattbike Cycle Ergometer

“…Indeed, this has been suggested as a critical factor for producing reliable results, 6 and ergometers that allow attachment of an individual's own bicycle have been shown to produce more reliable results than stand-alone ergometers. 4 Geometry and lower-limb kinematics that most closely replicate a cyclist's position on his or her own bike are associated with improved economy, 15 and for that reason an ergometer that closely reflects the feel of cycling may provide a superior means of assessing exercise performance when compared with ergometers that allow minimal adjustments.…”

“…In cycling, the systematic error may relate to the inability of an ergometer to accurately measure power output. 6 The Wattbike cycle ergometer is currently used in numerous sporting facilities and university laboratories to assess and monitor cycling performance. To date, only a limited number of studies have investigated the accuracy and reproducibility of the ergometer.…”