As the road cycling preseason continues, the rumors and speculation keep generating interest. The latest is the hypothesis that Remco Evenepoel could attempt to break the hour record.
This possibility was directly fueled by Dan Bigham, head of aerodynamics for Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe, who was instrumental in setting Filippo Ganna’s current record and is one of the most influential figures in aerodynamic development. Just a few days ago, Bigham was testing a new technique to visualize airflow over the bike and rider in real time.
When asked about it, Bigham didn’t hesitate to discuss Remco Evenepoel’s chances should the Belgian attempt to break the 56.792 km hour record held by Filippo Ganna. The Briton is absolutely certain that, sooner or later, Remco Evenepoel will attempt to break this record and states emphatically, “Of course he can break it!”
Dan Bigham knows a thing or two about this record, both as an aerodynamics specialist and as a top-level track cyclist. In fact, in 2022, he himself held the hour record, surpassing Victor Campenaerts’ previous mark of 55.548 km.
Bigham, then riding for INEOS Grenadiers, didn’t hold the record for long, as his attempt was merely preparation for Filippo Ganna’s record, which left the stratospheric mark that is now etched in the annals of cycling.
The reasons Dan Bigham gives for asserting that Evenepoel can break Ganna’s record are based on the technological and aerodynamic advancements that have occurred in the last three years, although it will be no easy task.
“The hour record isn’t about aerodynamics, it’s not about physiology or the cyclist’s performance. It’s about a combination of all of those things and the ability to bring them all together on the day and at the place you choose. It’s about executing your plan to the letter and showing the world whether you’ve prepared well enough,” the Briton concluded.
Source: www.brujulabike.com