In the last few years more and more attention in the cycling sport has been paid to coaching and supervision of the cyclist. So much progress has been made, particularly in the field of training and nutrition, that the physical performance has nearly reached its optimum. In order to further improve the efficiency of the cycling movement, optimizing the position on the bicycle is an absolute prerequisite. The ultimate aim is to achieve a position of the cyclist on his bicycle which is as efficient and as aerodynamic as possible.

If efficiency were the only factor demanding attention, it would be fairly simple. During this last decade, the cycling sport has evolved from an endurance sport into a power-endurance sport. The influence of biomechanic and aerodynamic research is gaining importance. The goal is to find a cycling position in which power is maximally converted into motion.

Scientific and empirical research has shown that a correct position on the bicycle is determined by several factors. The matrix that illustrates the correlation between these factors consists of the following elements: friction, efficiency, power maximization and comfort.

Resistance Efficiency Power Comfort maximization

In reality, however, the results of this research are not always used to its full extent. It is apparent that many cyclists, and not only the recreational cyclists, still adopt a very poor position on their bicycle. An example can be found in the Tour de France of 1999. Michael Boogerd insisted on using a conventional cap in the prologue, whereas aerodynamic research had clearly indicated that the use of an aerodynamic helmet would have gained him seconds of time. This clearly illustrates that the vanguard of the cycling sport has so far failed to appreciate the effect and use of biomechanic and aerodynamic research.

A proper sitting position on the bicycle has other advantages, also. Cyclists are regularly confronted with injuries, and cycling tourists face physical complaints in large numbers. These injuries and complaints are caused by deviations in position or by an incorrect position on the bicycle. Optimizing the sitting position on the bicycle prevents the occurrence of injuries.

It is clear that the four factors mentioned above not only influence but also negatively affect each other. For example, the average cyclist experiences a deep aerodynamic position of the upper body as anything but comfortable.