The "Parachute Effect": Why your bib number is costing you 9 minutes (and a lot of energy)?

Did you know that the 20x15 cm plastic bib number you receive at registration can be your worst enemy on race day?

If you're tackling a challenge like a long-distance ride such as the QH Quebrantahuesos, with 200 km and 3100 m of elevation gain, every gram of strength counts. But there's an "invisible brake" we often ignore: the drag or aerodynamic resistance of the bib number on the handlebars.

Science doesn't lie: 7.4 Watts of resistance

We've crunched the numbers for an average cyclist at a speed of 25 km/h. A standard bib number placed flat in front of the handlebars generates approximately 7.4 watts of resistance.

Seems like a small amount, right? Well, think of it this way:

• Over 200 km: Those extra watts force you to expend precious energy that you could use on the last climb.

• In time: You lose between 7 and 9 minutes off your final time just because of how the air hits the bib number.

• On descents: This is where it hurts! If you descend at 50 km/h, the resistance skyrockets to 60 watts. It's like someone is stepping on the brake while you're trying to gain momentum.

The problem with fixed bib numbers

The dilemma has always been the same: you need the bib number to be visible for control and photos, but you don't want it to act like a sail when the terrain gets fast or the wind blows head-on.

Folding it with zip ties or taping it usually results in torn bib numbers, illegible numbers, or strained brake cables.

Pedra.bike's solution: "Aero" mode with one click

At Pedra.bike, we know that performance and practicality must go hand in hand. That's why we've designed our retractable bib number holder.

How does it work? It's simple: when the terrain is favorable, the road goes downhill, or you simply want to ride as efficiently as possible, you can retract the bib number to put it in aero mode.

1. Climb without extra weight: Keep your bib number visible.

2. Fly on flats and descents: Retract it to eliminate those 7.4W of frontal drag.

3. Total efficiency: Save energy for when you really need it (like on those 3100m of positive elevation gain).

Don't let a piece of plastic determine your finish time. Switch to the Pedra.bike system and stop fighting the wind.

👉 [Visit our store and discover the available bib number holders today]