What is a time trial in cycling?
A time trial is a race against the clock, in which riders start one by one at set intervals and the fastest time over the course wins. There is no drafting behind other riders.
In an individual time trial, each rider is alone. Riders use special aerodynamic bikes, helmets and skinsuits, and hold a low position to cut air resistance, because on flat courses aerodynamics matter more than anything except power.
A team time trial follows the same idea for a whole team, which rides together and takes turns at the front. The team's time is usually taken on a set rider in the group, such as the fourth or fifth to cross the line. Team time trials appear less often than they used to.
In stage races, time trials can decide the general classification. A GC rider who is strong against the clock can gain minutes on pure climbers, which is why time trial training is part of every GC programme.
Time trial specialists usually have very high sustained power and a body that can hold an efficient aero position. Our bikes section lists each WorldTeam's time trial bike alongside its road and aero models.