AERODYNAMICS

AERODYNAMICS IN CYCLING WHEELS: HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SPEED WITH LESS EFFORT 

Why are aerodynamics so important in your wheels?

Aerodynamics is one of the most decisive factors in the performance of a bicycle. From just 15 km/h, air resistance becomes the main enemy to overcome. For example, when you pedal at 40 km/h, your wheels spin at twice the speed - which multiplies the impact of the wind.

Therefore, optimizing the aerodynamics of wheels is key to saving energy, improving stability and gaining speed without increasing effort.

The "SAILING EFFECT" or "TURBO EFFECT".

At PROGRESS we talk about the "SAIL EFFECT", an aerodynamic phenomenon that takes advantage of the side wind to generate thrust. Just as a sailboat zigzags against the wind, well-designed aerodynamic wheels can transform that side wind into forward force.

We call this phenomenon the "TURBO EFFECT, " and its intensity depends on:

  • Rim profile height
  • Wind angle
  • The shape of the wheel

During testing, we simulated winds of 45 km/h in the wind tunnel. A wheel with high aerodynamic efficiency can reduce your time on the road by several minutes. On the other hand, a poorly optimized design can generate turbulence and drag.

Progress Cycles Wind Test

Rims design: how to achieve the perfect flow

The secret is to design Rims where the wind flows uninterrupted from the tip of the tire to the sidewall curvature. The smoother this flow, the greater the lateral thrust and the lower the resistance.

In the wind tunnel we analyzed the behavior of the wheels between -20° and +20°, identifying the angle of maximum efficiency and the point at which the flow breaks.

Tire and Rim Integration

A poorly integrated tire can ruin all aerodynamics.
Our Rims AIR+PLUS rims have an inner width of 21 mm and an outer width of 30 mm, which allows the tire and Rim to form a continuous, step-free surface.

Tech tip: Some tires can add up to 4 watts of extra resistance, which affects your performance. See our recommendations for compatible tires or visit the manufacturer's website.

Resistance in Watts (W)

In the wind tunnel we measure precise data:

  • - Angle O° (wind resistance from the front)
  • - Angle of maximum efficiency (thrust)
  • - Angle when flow breaks
  • - Candle effect (against subtraction if any)

The average of these results defines the total aerodynamic drag in watts (W).

At PROGRESS we constantly publish all the results certified by the GST wind tunnel, which records 4,000 data per second.

AERODYNAMICS

Crosswind Control: stability in crosswinds

Side wind can affect the handling and control of the bike. Therefore, each Rim profile has a different behavior.

Our wheels AIR+PLUS wheels with a round "U" profile offer more predictable and stable handling even in high wind conditions.
For time trials or triathlons, the SPACE (88 mm) is one of the fastest wheels on the market, while the A-PRIME (40-50 mm) combines aerodynamics and versatility for all types of rides .

INTERNATIONAL RESULTS 

RESULTS AND INDEPENDENT TESTING

ROADBIKE, a specialized magazine, has confirmed the results of our wind tunnel tests at GST (Germany) and Magny-Cours (France).

In the 07/20 test we won the wheels test with disc brakes (40-50 mm profile), and in 23/11 we once again stood out for our aerodynamic efficiency.

In addition, we frequently visit the 2 most prestigious wind tunnels in Europe to check and confirm,

GST Germany and the F1 France tunnel at Magny-Cours.

Progress Cycles Wheel Comparaision 2023
Progress Cycles Wheel Comparaision 2020
TEST AND RESULTS

AerOptimum Magny-Cours, France WIND TUNNEL 2025 

To provide more accurate data on our new wheels some prototypes, we conducted a new aerodynamic test in the wind tunnel (AerOptimum Magny-Cours, France). 

We investigated how much and how the newNitro Hub and wider 28 mm tires affect the drag coefficient. 

Considering the loss due to the larger diameter of both Hub the tires, let's first highlight the advantages: 

The newNitro Hub significantly improves the lateral stiffness of the wheel increases power transmission. 

Meanwhile, 28 mm tires have become the standard in various disciplines thanks to their comfort and reduced friction. 

Despite this, the test results have surprised us. 

To ensure data accuracy, we follow standard procedures: the test bench rotates from 20 degrees positive to negative during measurement and evaluates each degree. The values obtained for our wheels from 14 to 2.6 watts. 

As a reference, we chose our wheel aerodynamic wheel , the Phantom with a 30mm profile. 

The evaluation program first shows the power required to overcome air resistance at 45 km/h with a completely frontal airflow. In this scenario, it can be seen that 28 mm tires penalize up to 4 watts in a headwind, although this penalty is significantly reduced in a crosswind. 

As always, in crosswinds, our Rims better Rims the airflow. Between 5 and 14 degrees of inclination, our wheels a very high sail effect, which literally pushes the cyclist forward. The most surprising thing has been the new shape of our A990 wheel , which has doubled this sail effect, turning it into a real turbo for time trials. 

The new Orbit and AERO models (in 38–45–50 mm versions with an Rim width of 23 mm) have also shown unexpected results. 

They have presented less air resistance than we expected and good performance in terms of sail effect. 

In the case of the Orbit 380, we have observed an improvement of 1.10 watts compared to its sister model, the AERO .

Both share the same Rim shape, but the Carbon spokes help reduce drag. 

On the other hand, the test with a Rim design (not shown in the diagram) has turned out to be a fiasco.

The turbulence generated prevents efficient airflow, and the sail effect is greatly reduced. 

Furthermore, at an angle of just 12 degrees, the airflow is abruptly interrupted. 

 

Finally, all of our Rims have a minimal impact on bike control, but only in situations where airflow is disrupted or in strong crosswinds.

Progress Wind Tunnel table 2025
Progress Cycles Wind Tunnel 2025
AERO GRAVEL

The Importance of Aerodynamics inGravel wheels

Why are wheels important for Gravel?

Aerodynamic drag is one of the greatest forces of resistance a cyclist faces.
Reducing drag helps conserve energy, especially over long distances.

 

Why do we think gravel wheels are the best choice?

If the profile is too low, you may lose speed. If it is too high, handling can become challenging in unpredictable conditions.

A Rim 50 mm or more is usually too heavy, which reduces responsiveness, since changes in pace and acceleration are constant in gravel.

For many cyclists, especially competitive ones, 40 mm has become the current sweet spot.

It is a well-balanced ride height that offers a real aerodynamic advantage without compromising confidence or control.

 

Our 40mmGRX and GX wheels remain the most balanced and versatile option for gravel.

In addition, its 28-mm internal width is ideal for fitting wide tires, offering maximum aerodynamic efficiency.

Everything else gets in the way and holds us back.

Progress Cycles Wind Tunnel
Progress Cycles Aero Wind Tunnel
Progress Cycles Wind Tunnel