Aerodynamics is not Speed

When Seconds Count

Some of Seven's Bike Design Considerations	Others: Engineered for Aerodynamics	Seven: Designed for Speed
Fit & Comfort	B+	A+
Handling	B+	A+
Performance	B-	A+
Tuebset	B-	A+
Overall Grade	B	A+

Many bike manufacturers promote the aerodynamics of their frames. Despite the myriad data bike manufacturers produce to show their bike has superior aerodynamics, this does not necessarily translate into speed on the road. Why?

There are three components to optimizing average speed:

• Aerodynamics of bike & rider
• Rider Performance
• Bike Performance

Even the most aerodynamic of frames will not ensure the fastest speed because the frame is just a small part of the equation. Wind resistance created by the rider overshadows any wind cheating benefits that an aero frame provides. A bike designed, from scratch, to fit you properly has a bigger impact on your speed than the aerodynamics of the frame.

Rider performance is also determined in large part by fit. Since most stock bikes come in five or six sizes, fit is rarely optimized—resulting in reduced speed. For bike performance, when stock frames are adapted to try to achieve proper fit, bike handling and biomechanics are often compromised, which once again, limits the bike's average speed.