Bike Shop > Bicycle Training > The Watt Bike Ergo Lab > things you need to know

That starts with a bike

Which is easy to operate…

It’s as simple as cycling only there’s none of the usual outdoor obstructions and distractions.

Select ‘just ride’ from the ‘main menu’ and begin pedaling
The Wattbike Performance Computer, the brain of the machine, feeds you information instantaneously. It measures Watts, Speed, Pace and Energy
You can also monitor your heart rate by attaching an appropriate chest belt.

So set your target and pedal – hard…

You can choose a pre-programmed session or create your own workout programs.

The WattBike Expert Software delivers information on 39 parameters, 100 times per second!
Target zones can be set for anyone of these parameters and the software allows you to view your proximity to the target as well as your current pedal efficiency. You can also view multiple parameters and set target zones for each of these.

And test yourself against others…

All the Wattbikes are networked so:

If the urge to race is there, you can test yourself against other Wattbike riders in the studio
You can also test yourself, via a built-in Peak Power Test, with the best riders in the world. Wouldn’t if feel fantastic to challenge the likes of Contador, Cadel or Armstrong?

While tracking your performance…

After a ride, your performance information is downloaded onto a computer where it is reviewed and saved.

You can monitor a live session, evaluate past and future rides, and transfer sessions from the monitor to your own personal computer for future analysis.
And monitoring your heart beat

Using the latest digital technology Bikelab’s Suunto Systems allows for your heart rate data to be transmitted onto a screen next to the coach in real time – an ideal way for beginners and experienced athletes to train together while working in their own personal time zone.

Your own personal coach

Bike Lab’s Professional Institute experts and coaches not only devise national programs, they can also structure a specific and scientific program to suit your goals.

It’s not just about modern testing equipment…

The Watt bikes are normally used in tandem with other testing equipment such as Computrainers, Virtual Reality Software (allowing riders a cardio replica of a course prior to a race) and the latest video-linked treadmills to achieve scientifically-proven results for individuals and groups based on their own unique results.
Your heart rate, power output and RPMs are displayed on a large LDC screen in the studio which adds a competitive feel to the studio if other individuals are participating

“It’s managed by a team of well respected fitness experts who operate in a relaxed environment where the emphasis is on effective but enjoyable and constructive training,” says Bike Lab owner, Liam Kelly.

It’s all about technique…

The data is comprehensive, in fact it’s so detailed that our experts who are professional cyclists and coaches can:

Monitor your progress in real-time using the data to suggest changes to your pedaling efficiency, your position, cadence and so on to help improve your technique and overall performance.
Familiarise you with all the data via testing, personal power and HR programs so that you understand the information and are able to track your progress.

“There’s a feeling of satisfaction when the data is translated and you see obvious improvements once we’ve established a proper technique and a suitable program,” Liam Kelly

And the feedback you get…

Each workout is recorded and stored either on a USB data stick or emailed to you.

In a relaxed and controlled environment…

Where we find the optimal position for you on the bike before you start so that we can:

Instruct you in its use, which is very straightforward
Allow you to get into your zone to fully appreciate an intense and rewarding workout that will see your performance improve from one workout to the other
Make sure that you know your limits as your safety is of prime concern to us.

Where you can also train with other likeminded individuals

It’s an ideal way to push yourself and make new friends who all share a common interest – to increase their level of fitness and performance.

Who reviews your results

Did you know that detailed scientific research shows that one hour in an environment such as Bikelab can save you three hours exercise outdoors?

It’ll save time, strength and energy…

Bikelab is certainly worth considering when so many of us have so little time to fit in exercise in our day-to-day activities. So effectively you become stronger in less time!

Provide an extraordinary level of accurate data…

Watt bikes provide accurate performance feedback whether you’re a recreational cyclist logging information and comparing workouts or a coach or sports scientist wanting in-depth results on an athlete’s performance.

Data focuses on Energy, Power, Speed and Pace. This is then translated into real time graphs:

Polar-Graph – the shows the peak force profile of the left and right leg downstroke, crucial information in increasing pedaling efficiency.
Signal Graph – allows tracking of the signal curves in real time. These signals can be switched on or off, filtered, amplitude or colour changes.
Bar-Graph – this tracks Power, Force, Work, Circumferential Pedal Velocity, Left Leg Percentage
(The mean accuracy of the Wattbike is typically within 2% (-0.42% and +/- 1.21) with retest variance typically better than 1 (0.42% +/- 0.46%) – South Australian Institute of Sport)

As you’re tested in a controlled environment…

It’s an authentic ride in a pleasantly controlled environment (fans, climate controlled temperature and the all the latest fitness and training contemporary equipment) that is unaffected by the variables that riders normally face from traffic and road hazards, to unfavourable weather conditions, to…

“Which means that you can focus on your cycling and your performance 100% of the time without having to be cautious about potholes, cars and other riders,” Liam Kelly.

Where you can accelerate your performance…

By having incremental changes made to your technique to maximise your effort and your energy.
And be assisted in developing a well-kept secret i.e. an ability to exercise your ‘muscle memory’ that makes training conducive to a far better and noticeable improvement in performance.

Or set yourself a challenge

By concentrating solely on your pedaling action and your force curve as opposed to distance, speed, watts, HR etc. It’s easy to split your workout into short intervals and then gradually expand each interval and notice the difference!

And tailor-makes a training program

I’ve heard about the Bikelab experience. I hear it’s amazing. What programs can you offer me?

Bikelab has programs to suit each individual. Contact Liam Kelly

But I love my spin classes?

You just can’t compare Bikelab’s unique ergometers with what you would find in any every day gym – there’s just no comparison.

The South Australian Institute of Sports, Tom Stanef said the Wattbike is certainly an “exceptional ergometer, and the excellent repeatability of testing is ideal for training facilities where athletes are tested regularly for fitness program effectiveness.”

Wattbikes are capable of not only measuring power, they also accurately measure the ‘push’ and the ‘pull’ of each pedal revolution.
A rider’s pedaling action can be graphed in a polar display to optimize your pedal stroke efficiency which is something other cycling ergometers cannot achieve.
The Wattbikes high level of accuracy is, according to sports scientists who have tested it, extraordinary.
No other ergometer can record multiple details let alone record data and monitor key fitness and strength variables to avoid overtraining.
They are also an incredibly durable, sturdy machine that have inbuilt safety features that don’t lead to painful joints, particularly with the back and knees, after a rigorous workout.

“This is not a health club spin class,” says Liam. “We have the technology to improve technique and performance for individuals who are serious about increasing their heart rate to power ratio at all intensity levels using equipment that is ordinarily only available at the Australian Institute of Sport.”

And I’m not a pro?

At Bike Lab we offer a tailor- made program that is comfortable with your exercise regime whether you’re a top athlete or beginner, young or old, a fitness fanatic or a female wanting to develop extra power in a non-intimidating environment which focuses on fitness and fun.

And what do the pros think?

Wattbikes have become quiet achievers since they were endorsed after years of rigorous training with British Cycling.

In 2008 it was unveiled at the World Track Cycling Championships in Manchester and then released onto the marketplace in October that year.
Since 2007 it’s been integral to British Cycling’s national talent identification program and integrated into the long term plans of British cycling
WattBikes are endorsed by the Australian Institute of Sport, Sky Pro Racing, and three time Tour de France winner, Robbie McEwen who stated that the equipment was “probably the best training tool ever.” It was a particular help to him when he was recovering from a leg injury.

The Wattbike is already assisting the GB Cycling Team in identifying our future stars and its potential in terms of indoor competition in schools and clubs can only be positive in terms of the number of young people coming into the sport in the future.” – David Brailsford, Performance Directory, British Cycling

I’ve joined up, what do I bring?

While we cater for every need for high performance training we recommend you bring:

Light cycling clothes, towel, change of clothes, bottles of water, post-workout snacks, a oog pair of cycling shoes, perhaps your own pedals (SPD/Platform pedals are available), and your own bike if you choose to train on one of our Computrainers or Tacx units.

NB: It’s a good idea to also know your saddle height or full bike fit. If you haven’t had a bike fit we also offer this service. And don’t eat any large meals at least a couple of hours before your workout.

How can I get in touch?

Contact Liam Kelly

Testimonials:

“It’s been the closest thing to a natural high, being able to concentrate fully without the usual annoyances on the road with the knowledge that I can focus entirely on my riding so that I can get into my zone and concentrate entirely on my body, my technique, my rhythm and my heart beat. It’s an unreal experience that I yearn for everyday.” Ron Krueger, commuter

“In only training session I improved my technique and with it my performance. My pedaling efficiency has increased by an amazing 50% which makes me feel more powerful on my bike when I’m out on the road. I use Watt bikes at least two or three times a week and then notice the difference when I’m climbing the back hills outside of Sydney.” – Ashley Russell, Audax long distance rider