Modelling of cyclist's power to overcome dissipative forces on a velodrome

TL;DR

This paper develops a detailed model of a cyclist's power output on a velodrome, accounting for various forces and track geometry, to better understand performance in individual pursuits and time trials.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive power model that incorporates track geometry and opposing forces, with analysis of empirical validity for cycling performance.

Findings

Model accurately predicts cyclist power requirements.

Analysis of constant-cadence and constant-power scenarios.

Assessment of empirical adequacy of the model.

Abstract

We model the instantaneous power applied by a cyclist on a velodrome -- for individual pursuits and other individual time trials -- taking into account its straights, circular arcs, and connecting transition curves. The forces opposing the motion are air resistance, rolling resistance, lateral friction and drivetrain resistance. We examine the constant-cadence and constant-power cases, and discuss their results, including an examination of empirical adequacy of the model.