Feature article

Monash helps Aussie cyclist go for gold

Cadel Evans used the wind tunnel in mid-2008 in his Olympic preparation as part of a new partnership between Monash and the Australian Institute of Sport's (AIS) elite cycling program. In a two-hour session, twin five-metre tall fans blew winds of up to 70kmh at Evans while he pedaled furiously on a stationary bicycle held in a specially-designed rig.

Monash's mechanical and aerospace engineering experts used sensitive equipment located in the wind tunnel's floor to measure the aerodynamic efficiency of various riding positions, as well as the amount of force placed on various types of wheels, handle bars, helmets, pedals, and even shoes and suits.

"In a short period of time, we got a lot of accurate information, which is most important," Evans said after the testing session. "It's invaluable information in my profession, because if we can save one minute it might be the difference between winning a gold medal and winning nothing at the Olympics."

The AIS had a detailed computer model of the circuit Evans would tackle during the 245km road race at the Olympics and Evans' work in the wind tunnel was focused on maximising his aerodynamics over the circuit.

The AIS estimates a 10 per cent improvement in Evans' aerodynamics would shave up to a minute off his time.

Monash wind tunnel manager David Burton said the aim of the work with Evans was to find the options that attracted the least wind force but still allowed Evans to produce optimum power.

"It's important for us and the AIS to work together so you can combine expertise on aerodynamics and biomechanics -- the two really need to come together," Mr Burton said.

Monash's partnership with the AIS cycling program continues a long association between the Engineering faculty tunnel, located at Monash's Clayton campus, and elite Australian sports teams. Skiers, the Winter Olympic female skeleton team (the sport involves sliding down a track head-first on a small sled), V8 super cars and sailing teams have all used the wind tunnel to boost their sporting chances.

The tunnel has a working section four metres high and 12 metres wide, making it the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere and large enough to fit a small truck. It can produce winds of up to 180kmh.

AIS physiologist David Martin said working with the Monash experts had been terrific because their professionalism was matched by their enthusiasm to get the best result for the Australian cyclists.