Open access to elite cycle training at the Boardman Performance Centre

Britain’s bike boom now has a new facility to add to its armoury. The first dedicated wind tunnel for cycling has been opened at the Boardman Performance Centre in Evesham, Worcestershire.

Previously the main wind tunnel options for cycling came from the world of Formula 1. To switch from automotive to bicycle use takes time and time is expensive. Occasional testing to get body position right, or perhaps find the most aerodynamic helmets and clothing, has been an option for the relatively well-funded elite British cyclists, but that has been the extent of it.

The new wind tunnel changes this. Testing costs hundreds of pounds rather than thousands – which may be more than loose change, but it does bring wind tunnel access to a broader user base. Cyclists can now use the facility for training, not just for quickly collecting test data. The facility can be part of a bike selection process.

It can also be used for R&D by designers of bikes and accessories. Enthusiastic amateurs can therefore now have a taste of the professional world, while the elite have a facility that will be the envy of international competitors.

Boardman used KWSP to design, build and deliver the wind tunnel. Kieron Salter, KWSP’s managing director, says: “The entire LabView data acquisition system and the mounting of the bike is developed in line specifically with the cycling.” However, it can be readily adapted for skiing, skating, skeleton and even – by suspending the athlete from the roof – for ski jumping.

Using vision systems and a projector puts the athlete in control. Salter continues: “The difference in what we do is that most of the time the athlete can be the tunnel controller and operate it themselves – they are conducting their own tests.”