Practical Guide for using the iBike on a Track Bike

[davidpuglia]

There have been a number of posts inquiring how to use the iBike on a track bike. I've experimented with the iBike at the Velodrome for almost two seasons and I'll summarize my findings.

1. I'm now using the latest generation iBike (the unit that the iAero is based on) with great success. I am using a wireless stem mount with a VRK (recommended). This setup allows the switching of Drop Bars and Time Trail Bars depending on the event. You can also use the Topek bar extender if your using the wired mount. I don't recommend using the bar mount as it limits the use to only drop bars.
2. Coast Downs. Given that the bike is a fixed gear what is the best procedure for a coast down - clipped in the pedals or not? I have done both for the Coast Downs and I have found no difference. Remember you are ALWAYS pedaling at the Velodrome - you better or its an end over. When I do the coast downs I just let the legs go as limp as possible - no back pressure at all on the pedals. I have done coast downs where I put rubber covers over my look cleats and just lift up my legs but I get the same aero and friction numbers as being clipped in.
3. Velodrome. The Velodrome is an outdoor track (Hellyer in San Jose CA). The surface is concrete so the tire pressure I use is not above 120 psi - I'm running tubular tires.
4. Bike Configuration. I have a Specialized Langster Track bike with a Zipp Disc in the rear and a ZIPP 404 front Wheel. However, I also use a 303 or 808 depending on Wind Conditions - it can get VERY windy at Hellyer so I will switch to the 303 if needed. The 808 is used indoors or on a calm day. Yes, the Aero Dynamic characteristics are different and you would see the differences on the iAero.
5. 4 mile out and back. I perform my 4 mile out and back on a paved park trail which is safe. Note that most track forks have a hole for a brake so you can put a BMX style brake on the front if you don't feel comfortable riding without a brake. I don't use a brake just back pressure on the pedals.
6. I've enclosed a sample file from a track session the past Sunday (May 18th). It's a combined file that has the following sequence:
a. First part is a warm up
b. There are two consecutive Kieren races with warm downs in between.
c. The third part is a scratch race.
d. The fourth part is a "Win and Out" - note you trackies can see my tactical mistake with the iBike2 display.
e. The fifth part is a Madison Practice session.

(PS - The forum won't allow me to upload the file - keeps complaining about "extension not allowed) If you want a copy just give me your email address and I'll send it to you.)

You note that the power readings, cadence, HR, speed are all very accurate and very useful in diagnosing each race. It's a very powerful tool for any Velodrome enthusiast.

Please see the enclosed iBike file.

David

[travispape]

David,

Great idea--thanks for sharing your experience.

(PS - The forum won't allow me to upload the file - keeps complaining about "extension not allowed) If you want a copy just give me your email address and I'll send it to you.)

Go ahead and try again. I just tried my hand at changing the board settings to allow CSV files to be posted. (I also added TCX and HRM while I was at it.)

Travis

[davidpuglia]

Thanks Travis - that worked. File uploaded.

David

[racerfern]

I'm looking forward to seeing someone else's "performance". However, I'm not accusing anyone here but just a reminder that Excel files like other files can contain malicous macros. I would suggest that all downloaded items be checked with whatever protection software you use.

[davidpuglia]

This is a .csv file - comma delimited straight out of the iBike. It's basically a text file - no macros possible. Excel files have .xls extensions and macros can only exist in excel .xls.

[racerfern]

We all know that this is from you and since you've been active here, there certainly shouldn't be an issue. However, with a new poster or a malicious poster you never know. It wouldn't take much to create a macro, rename your .xls file to .csv or make a link that looks like a csv but really points to an xls file. Before you know it strange things could happen, especially for someone unsuspecting. Even .pdf files are cause for concern nowadays. There is a reason this forum like others initially limits certain types of files. My gmail account scans automatically so I'm not worried; I was just sounding a word of caution. From there we're all big boys.

[travispape]

It wouldn't take much to create a macro, rename your .xls file to .csv or make a link that looks like a csv but really points to an xls file.

This is a good point. As long as you keep the default security settings, Excel will warn you if a spreadsheet contains any macros. Personally I have never seen this happen, but if you ever get the macro warning when you try to open a CSV file it would be especially important to click disable.