P5x/P3x Most Aero base bar configuration (up or down)

Triathlon Forum
1

Marginal gains here. Anyways p5x owner here. The way my base bars are configured on the bike is sloping downwards, this seems to be the norm with stock photos of the p5x being similar. I’m assuming this leads to a more aero position when you are on the base bars as your body position is lower.

But looking at Ben Hoffman’s photo’s from IM South Africa, his base bars (P5x bars on P3x) are clearly configured upwards. Similar to the High V is the most aerodynamic setup for the P5-6 cockpit, does anyone know if there is an “optimal” set up the P5x/p3x base bars?

Thanks

*edit: a rep just got back to me and confirmed the bar tested faster (im assuming for ben) in the up swept position FWIW. *

2

Since shape and frontal area is identical it should not matter unless there’s interaction with rider’s position that could make it behave differently. Unless you test you won’t know so go with what’s more comfortable for you and helps handling in corners, descents etc.

3

Since shape and frontal area is identical

Are you saying that an airfoil, (for example, a TT pursuit bar), when tilted upwards/downwards has the same drag as when tilted properly?

4

You have to factor in your body, in both hi and low position, if you are trying to see which is more aero. Low is probably better when using brakes.

5

Since shape and frontal area is identical

Are you saying that an airfoil, (for example, a TT pursuit bar), when tilted upwards/downwards has the same drag as when tilted properly?

No, he’s talking about the P5x/3x.

OP, I think it was Heath or DD who may have tested sloping bars and mentioned that they had slightly higher drag at yaw (I think it was old vs new Ventus).??? just from memory.

Having said that, a lot of this is handling, aero on the base and confidence descending. For me it would be lower, personal choice though.

Maurice

6

Thanks for the replies guys. I sent cervelo an email and a rep just got back to me. Confirmed, the bar (I’m assuming for Ben) in the up swept position tested faster FWIW.

7

Tilting is not the same thing as turning it upside down. By tilting you increase frontal area.

Since shape and frontal area is identical

Are you saying that an airfoil, (for example, a TT pursuit bar), when tilted upwards/downwards has the same drag as when tilted properly?

8

Thanks for the replies guys. I sent cervelo an email and a rep just got back to me. Confirmed, the bar (I’m assuming for Ben) in the up swept position tested faster FWIW.

I read similar in an article some time ago.
Can’t remember if it was Hoff or other but angled up was the better aero profile.