How Much Energy Can You Save From Drafting? GCN Does Science

Sheltering from the wind is a key skill in bike races like the Tour de France.

Ahead of Stage 2 of Le Tour, Dan and Matt travelled to the home of crosswinds - The Netherlands - to find out exactly how much energy can be saved from slipstreaming behind another rider. How much energy, in terms of power, can you save through drafting? Prepare to find out!

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The Global Cycling Network puts you in the centre of the action: from the iconic climbs of Alpe D’Huez and Mont Ventoux to the cobbles of Flanders, everywhere there is road or pavé, world-class racing and pro riders, we will be there bringing you action, analysis and unparalleled access every week, every month, and every year. We show you how to be a better cyclist with our bike maintenance videos, tips for improving your cycling, cycling top tens, and not forgetting the weekly GCN Show. Join us on YouTube’s biggest and best cycling channel to get closer to the action and improve your riding!

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Music - licensed by Cue Songs

[NickGoldston]

At a power of 350 watts... A power of 300 watts. Couldn't stop laughing

[TheWaxChainFanClub]

Ha! Brilliant lads!

To be serious for a minute, I think we should celebrate the wealth and experience of the GCN team, this is a tremendous resource for anyone interested in cycling, in any capacity.

Kudos, Matt.

Is there anything you would have done differently, given your knowledge now, during your racing days?

I hope you gave Si his sock back.

[davepratt]

Really liked the science based aspect of this video. Great job guys.

[yeonhocho]

Can you make a video about "Best bike frame material for you" And explain pros and cons about the material(steel(Columbus Spirit tubing), aluminum, titanium, and carbon)

[nicknamesareoveratedisme]

If you are out on a ride on your own into headwinds you're an ech-alone 😳

[nurmuhammadhanif]

We keep seeing Dann on a different bike every couple videos. how many does he have? Would love to see his collection!

[vausemike]

World class science chaps. You deserve some sort of global recognition for your continual breakthroughs.

[Jstroman]

I don't normally half wheel but when I do it is with a rider that I know and trust. Good info but half wheel with caution.

[pjgarcia]

Nice wind sock.  Never saw one with stripes, before.

[inspektormoors]

Canyon !!!
GCN must go to Koblenz, its beautiful there

[twowheeler]

Will you guys do a review of that new Canyon? God that new 2015 model is insane

[monnkeey]

How about making a video about how to avoid crashes and the rules to be kept between riders during the group ride? Yesterday there was a terrible accident in my city where a woman rider got her 1st crash during a group ride and unfortunately fell down to the roadside where the following car hit her. She died at the ER...

[ronanfox]

Two points that weren't mentioned in the video: 1) obviously road safety is paramount so be aware of where the "ideal" position puts you on the road (echelons and traffic don't mix!) and 2) in order to get the most benefit the rider in front needs to be aware of where they should be positioned to allow space on their left for the rider behind to get the best position if the wind is from the right (or left in the U.S./Europe).

[nickr.]

Global Cycling Network That was really nice of Dan to lower the wattage for Matt. Dan is such a nice guy. Also, where has his hair gone?

[pokie]

Dan you nailed the 300 watts..  Thanks for being consistent..  nicely done...  And Matt, you too, for keeping up... lol

[mx]

Tomorrow is going to be an exciting TDF stage! Thunderstorms and a lot of wind expected.

[sonoffire]

You really should've held the drops when doing this test as the body positions of both riders obviously also impact the drafting effect of the rider sitting in the back e.g. rarely do you see a racer riding on the hoods when battling the wind.
I suggest in strong crosswind when the rider in front is in his full-aero position (especially when he's a bit shorter chap) doing 500W and riding in the very far opposite side of the road from the wind then the rider behind (especially when he's a bit taller chap) still has to put out similarly same power to keep up.

[carlosestebanrestrepo]

Tell us please your impressions about the new Canyon Ultimate CF SLX

[mikkompeltonen]

So, what's your difference in weight? That is a major factor.

[ciaranosulllivan]

Fancy new canyon for Dan the big man, wondering how it feels for the guy who once rode for the cervelo test team to cycle this beaut