Body Rocket Brings Wind Tunnel Accuracy to the Open Road

Real-time aerodynamic data for cyclists

In the world of cycling, technology often feels like it's reserved for the chosen few—the elite athletes with sponsorships and access to facilities that most can only dream about. Wind tunnels, aerodynamic testing labs—these are places where milliseconds are shaved off and victories are born. But what if that kind of high-level tech was available to everyone? That's the promise of Body Rocket.

Imagine you're out on your usual training route, the pavement familiar under your wheels, the wind a constant companion. Now, picture having the ability to measure your aerodynamic drag in real time, right there on the road, without any guesswork or expensive lab equipment. Body Rocket aims to turn that into reality.

Founded by Paralympian Eric DeGolier, the idea sprouted from his own frustrations back in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens. He realized that access to aerodynamic measurement was a luxury afforded only to the very top professionals. Two decades later, he's introducing a device that could democratize aero testing for cyclists and triathletes everywhere.

The system is elegantly simple yet technologically advanced. Four sensors are placed on your bike—on the pedals, handlebars, and under the saddle. These aren't just any sensors; they're capable of capturing up to 28,000 data points every minute. All this information is processed by an AI named BRIAN, turning raw data into actionable insights. It's like having a personal coach and a wind tunnel with you on every ride.

Professional cyclist Alex Dowsett called Body Rocket “the next natural progression within cycling.” And it's hard to argue with that when you hear about Norwegian triathlete Kristian Blummenfelt. Using Body Rocket, he reportedly saved 35 watts and gained an extra three and a half minutes over a 40 km ride. In a sport where races are won and lost by fractions of a second, that's a monumental gain.

But let's address the elephant in the room: the cost. The basic system starts at about $2,873. Higher tiers offer more personalized support, ranging up to around $6,500. It's not pocket change, but for those serious about their performance, it could be a worthwhile investment.

What sets Body Rocket apart is its commitment to accuracy and real-world applicability. Traditional methods estimate drag based on power and then factor in variables like drivetrain losses and rolling resistance, which can fluctuate. Body Rocket directly measures drag force, eliminating the guesswork. It works best on flat terrains and up to road gradients of 6%, covering most racing and training scenarios.

The device isn't just for test days or special occasions. It's designed to be integrated into your regular training routine, providing continuous feedback and allowing you to make adjustments on the fly. Whether you're on a velodrome, a closed loop, or your favorite stretch of open road, you can fine-tune your position, equipment, and technique.

So, is Body Rocket the game-changer it claims to be? It certainly has the potential. By making advanced aerodynamic data accessible, it levels the playing field, allowing more athletes to compete at higher levels. It's not just about the data; it's about empowering cyclists to understand and harness every factor that can make them faster.

For those passionate about pushing their limits and embracing innovation, Body Rocket offers a glimpse into the future of cycling and triathlon. It's more than a gadget; it's a tool that could redefine personal boundaries and performance standards. In a sport where every second counts, that's an opportunity worth exploring.

Pros:

  1. Real-Time Aerodynamic Data: The Body Rocket provides instant feedback on drag forces during actual rides, allowing cyclists to make real-time adjustments and optimize their performance on the go.
  2. Accurate Drag Measurement: It directly measures aerodynamic drag using four sensors, providing wind tunnel-level precision without needing to visit a specialized facility. This eliminates the guesswork associated with traditional estimation methods.
  3. Democratizes Access to Aero Testing: By offering advanced aerodynamic testing outside of elite labs and wind tunnels, it opens up high-level performance analysis to more cyclists, including amateurs and semi-professionals.
  4. AI-Powered Insights: The integration of AI (BRIAN) to process data and guide optimization gives riders actionable insights to improve their position, equipment choices, and techniques.
  5. Compatibility with Various Bikes: The system works with a wide range of road bikes and superbikes from top brands, making it accessible to many riders who already own compatible setups.
  6. Usability in Real-World Conditions: It can be used on actual training routes and races, offering a more realistic assessment compared to controlled lab environments.

Cons:

  1. High Cost: With prices starting at approximately $2,873 and reaching up to $6,500 for full packages, it remains out of reach for many cyclists, especially recreational riders.
  2. Limited Gradient Accuracy: The system is optimized for use on flat terrains and gradients up to 6%. For steeper courses, the data may not be as reliable, limiting its usefulness in hilly or mountainous environments.
  3. Complexity for Non-Tech-Savvy Users: Despite the AI support, some cyclists may find the amount of data and the integration of new technology overwhelming, potentially requiring a learning curve to make the most out of the system.
  4. Additional Costs for Premium Support: While the base package includes the essential components, accessing more personalized advice and AI support requires opting for higher-cost packages, which could add to the overall expense.
  5. Dependency on Technology: Relying heavily on the system could shift the focus away from traditional training methods and rider intuition, potentially diminishing the role of experience and skill development.

Starting $2,873

Scroll to Top