Why Are the Pros Getting Faster in Kona?

Not all bike setups are created equal, though. Some athletes at Kona go with "superbikes" with integrated headsets. Others go with more traditional frames with less aerodynamic stems. Different handlebar and wheel choices influence relative aerodynamic performance. Some athletes even choose traditional road helmets over more aerodynamic ones. And in the last few years even "beam bikes" without seat tubes have reappeared in the pro ranks. With that much variation in the equipment, the question still lingers whether the bikes have saved 30 watts or the athletes have simply raised the bar for power output. With all the advances in training and nutrition, one would expect athletes to be a little faster. To investigate this further, below is the list of various average power outputs of athletes who've pedaled the Queen K since the dawn of the power meter. All data is linked so you can look further if you so choose (you know you want to).

More: 10 Stunning Photographs From Ironman Kona

2014

Hoffman: 272W

2013

Jacobs: 281W

Van Lierde: 294W

McKenzie: 281W

Al-Sultan: 280W

Bockel: 274W

2012

McKenzie: 265W (this link applies to all athletes in 2012)

Jacobs: 281W

Al-Sultan: 288w

2008

Sindballe: 300.5W (this link also applies to all further unlinked data below)

Llanos: 270W

2007

Sindballe: 309W

2006

Al-Sultan: 283W

Bell: 273W

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About the Author

Jim Gourley

Jim Gourley is a four-time Ironman finisher and part of a four-man division that finished the Race Across America. He earned a degree in astronautical engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and has written on science and technology in triathlon for four years. He is author of the book Faster: Demystifying the Science of Triathlon Speed.
Jim Gourley is a four-time Ironman finisher and part of a four-man division that finished the Race Across America. He earned a degree in astronautical engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and has written on science and technology in triathlon for four years. He is author of the book Faster: Demystifying the Science of Triathlon Speed.

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