Quote:
Originally Posted by orange4boy
Too bad they didn't test that tube profile the other (better) way around.
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Trek designed a carbon fiber bike with similar profiles (although more of a full Kamm shape) to be more aerodynamic in crosswinds.
"Unlike a conventional airfoil, the KVF tube shape retains full aero benefit at yaw (crosswind). The virtual tail bends to maintain its aero shape in the presence of the most prevalent crosswinds. The virtual-tail truncated tube shape allows us to use less material, for a lighter yet stiffer frame."
Crosswinds are significant at the lower speeds of bicycles. A car or motorcycle going 60 mph will be less negatively effected by a 10 mph crosswind than the bicycle.
Speed Concept 9 Series - Feature tour - Trek Bicycle
Click on KVF tube shape.
That said, aero drag is pretty significant at 30 mph or even 10 mph with a 20 mph headwind. Ask any cyclist.