Sport and technology. A combination that ultimately aims for excellence. If you want to be the best in the world or secure a spot in the prestigious Olympic hall of fame, every detail matters.

At the HPM Bike Seminar, key topics such as aerodynamics, wind tunnel testing, power output in watts, and the role of emotions and experience in optimizing cycling performance were explored.

Moderated by biomechanical engineer Stefano Maldifassi and former professional cyclist Riccardo Magrini, now a renowned Eurosport commentator, the seminar featured insights from professors, technicians, and athletes who revealed the secrets behind top-level cycling. Discussions ranged from the evolution of materials, which have reduced bike frame weights to just over half a kilo, to the importance of adopting the best riding position. This latter aspect, known as Bike Fitting, is often underestimated but is crucial for balancing comfort and power output while pedaling.

A central theme of the event was the relationship between aerodynamics and cycling, examined from an academic perspective by Claudio Somaschini, a researcher at Politecnico di Milano, and from an athlete’s standpoint by Francesco Lamon, Olympic champion in track cycling.

Aerodynamic studies, including wind tunnel testing, have demonstrated how meticulous attention to detail can lead to performance improvements. Lamon shared how his collaboration with Politecnico di Milano to refine his riding position has positively impacted his results on the track. The ability to analyze an athlete’s position and bike components using scientific tools has been instrumental in securing the split-second advantages needed to win Olympic medals, gold and bronze, in the last two editions of the Games.

The seminar also delved into the history and development of materials used in bike frames. This discussion was led by Francesco Braghin, Professor at Politecnico di Milano, and Marco Compagnoni, General Manager of Titici, an Italian company at the forefront of custom frame manufacturing.

Their talk highlighted the importance of balancing engineering research with an athlete’s specific needs. The use of composite materials, such as carbon fiber, allows for frame customization tailored to each cyclist’s physical characteristics and performance goals. However, the lightest bike is not always the best solution, especially for athletes who need to generate significant power output.

The final segment of the seminar shifted focus to Bike Fitting and the importance of integrating technology with hands-on experience, a service HPM provides at its Milan headquarters. Former professional cyclist Wladimir Belli and Giorgio Ripamonti, Professor at Università Cattolica and FIDAL (Italian Athletics Federation) coach, addressed this topic in detail.

They emphasized that proper positioning on the saddle, supported by objective data and biomechanical testing, is essential for preventing injuries, optimizing energy efficiency, and ensuring maximum comfort during cycling. While technology now allows for precise analysis of multiple parameters, the expert eye of a seasoned professional remains irreplaceable when it comes to interpreting data and translating it into effective solutions for each athlete.