Study on Fluid resistance acting on track racer

Abstract

In cycling sports, fluid resistance accounts for ninety percent of all resistance at maximum speed. To date, studies on fluid resistance in track race have examined about bicycle and racer’s position on the bike for the reducing drag force. However, these studies have not revealed the relation of cycle wear and fluid resistance. In This study, we focused on the effect of fabric to reduce drag force in track race. To clarify where body parts increase air resistance, we first employed computer fluid dynamics. From results of simulation, the head, arms, and legs are identified as the major sources of drag on a track race. Based on results, we tested three kinds of fabrics by measuring drag force on cylinder model and full-scale mannequin. The reduction in drag force was observed in both experiments, and finally almost eight percent of drag force was reduced on skinsuit that was made from compared fabric.