GCN Tech recently tested whether aerodynamic cycling clothing makes a measurable difference at the speeds and power outputs typical of everyday riders, not just racers, responding to comments from previous videos that question whether or not cycling clothing really matters.
The test took place on a cycle track, with riders wearing casual clothing and a full office suit compared against performance lycra kit. Each setup completed six laps at 150 watts and 200 watts, power levels consistent with what Zwift data suggests is typical for average cyclists.
At 150 watts, casual shorts and a t-shirt produced a 22-second deficit per 1.5 km, or just under one mile, lap compared to performance kit. At 200 watts, that gap narrowed to 10 seconds. The office suit performed worse across the board, trailing by 30 seconds per lap at 150 watts and 23 seconds at 200 watts
The broader takeaway is that your body accounts for roughly 80% of aerodynamic drag while the bike accounts for the remaining 20%. That reality makes clothing a more cost-effective performance upgrade than a new bike. Top-tier performance kits can cost quite a lot and, according to a fair number of people out there, can look quite ridiculous, but the time saving is undeniable.