Want to save 25 watts at 50kph?
Yes, you can. I've done it, and I've proof.
What did I use? Simply, Ultimate Ceramic Bearing's (UCB) Speedcage.
The UCB Speedcage (Supertec Hybrid, the base level model which I bought) seems to have saved me about 25 watts to hit roughly the same top speeds of 52.8 and 52.9kph between two rides.
Take a look at this screenshot of my Garmin Connect data below:
Before and after installing UCB Speedcage. Take a look at the speed and power differences, and also max heart rate. You'll see that even though Max HR and Max Speed is almost the same, the Max Power is very different.
It could also be together with the combination of the better fitting Suplest shoes...
Anyway, to hit 52.8kph took about 734 watts for the "Flintstones" ride . Max avg power (20 min) is 113 watts. Avg speed is 26kph.
In the earlier "Under Pressure" ride, before using Speedcage, it took me about 759 watts to hit 52.9kph. Max avg power (20 min) is 134 watts. Avg speed is 25.8kph
Long story short, Speedcage and Carbon Dry Japan (CDJ) big pulley kits make a difference!
I know many cyclists who spend $200-300 on aero helmets that save a claimed 5 watts at 50kph.
Why not get a Speedcage or CDJ 'kit that could probably save you 25 watts at 50kph?
Granted, my test is done not under a controlled lab environment. But both rides were done on the same route, with the faster one done during a much hotter mid-afternoon. I'd like to think that I actually perform better when it's not so hot...
But yes, if you're hunting to prevent power loss and save watts, look at the UCB Speedcage or CDJ Big Pulley Kits. Before you install them, and if you have a power meter, do a ride or two on your usual route, and then compare the difference after that. I think you'll be very pleased.
What I've noticed immediately after installing Speedcage was that:
- Pushing off from zero didn't need as much effort.
- After getting used to needing to use less effort to cruise (felt too easy in my usual gear)... I found myself using one gear harder after a week for my usual cruise speed.
Technically... my 11 speed drivetrain sort of becomes "12 speed", eh?
Again, if you're looking to save watts or prevent power loss, have a look at the UCB Speedcage or CDJ Big Pulley Kit, and get one yourself today!
P.S. The Speedcage replaces your rear derailleur's stock cage. You may need a longer chain (to account for the slightly longer cage and bigger size pulleys) if your current one isn't long enough.
