Looking to make this season really count? Try a virtual aero optimization consultation with our friends at Notio
Let’s face it, as many regions come out of lockdown and we get back to ‘normal’, it may take a little while to hit your old training numbers. Or maybe you haven’t been on your E-118 for a few months and are thinking your position may need an update. If you’re ready to find a little extra edge, Notio now offers virtual consultation sessions to find your maximum aero advantage. Measure your CdA, test different gear and positioning options, and get more speed for the same watts – all while making sure you get accurate, replicable results from your testing process.
Wait, what’s Notio?
Notio is an on-bike aerometer, used to calculate your CdA in real riding conditions. Alongside a powermeter, Notio measures temperature, humidity, barometric pressure and air speed. Using these measurements, Notio calculates your CdA while you ride, letting you know your optimal position and where you can work to decrease your drag.
Do I need an aero consultation to use Notio?
If you’re new to Notio, setting up an accurate testing protocol can be challenging. You’re looking to measure very small changes in CdA, and want to be sure those are not due to discrepancies in your testing process rather than in the position you’re trying to evaluate, for example. Data analysis also involves many variables, especially when you’re looking or very incremental differences. Even if you’ve been using an aerometer for a while, it’s great to benefit from advice on how to interpret and apply the data you’ve already collected.
“Sometimes you only need to refine your testing protocol slightly to get the data that reveals where the real gains are likely to come from,” says Rob Barrett, Notio Aerodynamics Consultant. “There may be a small adjustment to your position or equipment that you want to evaluate, and you want to be sure you’ve got the right conditions and process to get accurate, repeatable results.”
What should I expect during the consultation?
The aero optimization consultation is two hours, broken down over two 1-hour sessions:
Session 1: Guidance for Testing Protocols
The first session will help you define the process for your Notio test sessions, so that you get the most from each session. This encompasses defining the order in which to test various equipment or positioning options, and the best way to ensure continuity between test sessions.
Session 2: File Analysis
The second session takes place after you have collected data following the testing protocol established in Session 1. Notio's aero consultation team then analyses the data file with you and review any factors that may have been causing difficulty with the test.
Aero testing with devices such as Notio require a systematic approach to the sequence in which each element is tested. There are also interactions between the various components that you may be testing, for example skinsuits and helmets. There are multiple changes that can be made as you test different setups, and the variables soon add up. That again makes it important to set up a rigorous testing process, and track the variables being tested. A proper testing protocol can help you save time in the end – and see real results.
