A major manufacturer of high-tech bicycles with a worldwide distributorship and many professional endorsements to its name used  3-D laser scanning to maintain its competitive edge. Its mission is to promote bike riding through innovative products, and exceptional care for its dealers and customers.

The challenge

In their ongoing quest to improve the efficiency and aerodynamics of its bikes, company engineers have been testing them in a wind tunnel since 2000. The goal is to improve design to reduce drag, so the same amount of power will create more speed and better air flow. The wind tunnel testing works well for mechanical assemblies such as bikes and components. However, to obtain truly realistic results, the interaction between the bike and rider must also be factored into any wind-resistance testing plan.

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