The integration of Artificial Intelligence in cycling represents a paradigm shift in the evolution of this sport, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation, optimization, and growth. While challenges persist, its transformative potential in this sport is vast and promising, foreshadowing a future where human potential and digital technologies converge to unlock new horizons of performance and well-being. As cyclists navigate the intersection of tradition and technology, the symbiotic relationship between human ingenuity and AI innovation will continue to propel cycling towards a brighter and more stimulating future
The passion for cycling at the amateur level is becoming increasingly widespread and populous. Excitement accompanies the major classic cycling races that have been taking place worldwide, and the most significant competitions of the so-called World Tour have already arrived, with the current Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, and Vuelta a España. Cycling, both professionally and at the amateur level, is undergoing an imminent and remarkable transformation in various aspects, thanks to its integration with artificial intelligence (AI). Whether in professional racing teams seeking a competitive advantage or for recreational cyclists aiming to improve performance and safety, this cutting-edge technology is reshaping the landscape of cycling in ways never seen before.
Firstly, we can say that AI has marked the beginning of a new era of personalized training in cycling, revolutionizing how cyclists optimize their performance. The use of smart bikes, smart simulators, and wearable sensors, all for personalized training, is not only improving efficiency and results but also providing cyclists with invaluable guidance in adapting to their strengths and weaknesses.
AI algorithms optimize training and maximize efficiency and performance. Platforms like Whoop Coach and FasCat Coaching harness the power of these algorithms to analyze data and tailor training plans to each cyclist’s needs, taking into account factors such as performance metrics, physiological data, and environmental conditions.
While some cyclists still prefer the human connection with the experience of a traditional training method, for many others, the promise of even greater perfection in training methods, unlocking new levels of performance, and reaching their full potential lies in the evolution now offered by AI. These personalized training plans additionally feature AI interfaces, such as ChatGPT or Bard from Google DeepMind, which use machine learning to interpret datasets, enabling new dimensions of understanding in cyclist performance analysis.
Artificial Intelligence in Cyclist Performance Optimization
Furthermore, thanks to Artificial Intelligence, professional cycling teams such as UAE, Ineos Grenadiers, and Visma-Lease A Bike (formerly Jumbo-Visma) have developed precision programs in the nutrition of their elite cyclists. With data ensuring optimal nutrition and training strategies, their athletes gain competitive advantages through these AI-driven nutritional planning platforms. They utilize IoT devices to track dietary intake, metabolic rates, and cyclists’ hydration levels.
With these mathematical models in partnership with Machine Learning, the nutritionists of these teams tailor diets for each cyclist, considering their biological data, power statistics, race history, route characteristics, and weather conditions. The method is based on data collection with IoT sensors, which, when analyzed by AI algorithms, predict the energy requirements of each cyclist during races. This ensures that each cyclist receives exact caloric proportions, improving their endurance, optimizing their performance, and race strategy.
In addition to these variables, AI has enabled the development of biomechanical analysis tools, also with IoT sensors, to monitor cyclists’ movements and body mechanics in real-time. Data pertaining to pedaling dynamics, posture, and muscle activation patterns help identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement in technique, leading to better performance and injury prevention.
Innovation in Design and AI-Powered Smart Bicycles
Another significant revolution in the cycling world around digital technologies is associated with the design and performance of cycling equipment, including bicycles, helmets, and clothing. With AI-driven simulations and IoT, analyses of aerodynamic resistance, material properties, and cyclist position data on their bicycle are carried out. Manufacturers then develop more aerodynamic and lightweight equipment, improving speed and endurance. AI is reshaping cycling apparel, with smart clothing offering innovative enhancements. As this AI-driven sportswear evolves, cyclists can expect personalized solutions that will enhance comfort, performance, and recovery.
Similarly, smart bicycles are discussed. The renowned brand Shimano, for example, is already responsible for a patent regarding AI-based bicycles known for their innovative features. In real-time, the use of this technology improves cyclist comfort and performance, becoming a strong potential for redefining the dynamics of this sport. Examples of these adaptations include adjustments and control that can be made from AI of the suspension or seatpost.
Fueled by data on bicycle materials, stress points, and aerodynamics, AI allows engineers to generate and test virtual prototypes quickly, minimizing costs and production times. Under these technological patterns, more agile, resilient, and aerodynamic bicycles are being developed, validated by rigorous virtual tests that push the boundaries of performance and efficiency.
In the 2023 edition of the legendary Tour de France, cyclists from the Groupama-FDJ team had special bicycles from the Lapierre brand whose frame was specially designed with Artificial Intelligence. AI-driven design is adding a new dimension of creativity to cycling aesthetics, including complex patterns and unique color combinations.
An exceptional example of AI integration with revolutionary bicycle design is the Neutral Concept, developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology – EPFL, from its School of Computer and Communication Sciences, which produced the Altaïr model, an aerodynamic bicycle that, tested in the World Human Powered Speed Challenge, propelled cyclists to unprecedented speeds.
Virtual Cycling: New Frontier of Personalized Training and Community Participation
But AI has not been limited to outdoor cycling. During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, indoor training – or rollers, as it is known – underwent substantial transformation with virtual cycling platforms. TrainerRoad Adaptive Training, INCUS Performance, and MyVeloFit, among other platforms, democratized information to optimize bicycle setup, making it affordable and accessible.
These are also AI-driven systems that offer highly realistic simulated conditions for cyclists to train and compete. This type of personalized, AI-based training allows for real-time adjustment of physical resistance, improvement in training effectiveness and motivation, customization of training plans, and comparative data with other users, even globally, from the comfort of their homes.
Virtual cycling has significantly encouraged community participation but above all, data-driven performance analysis, revolutionizing how cyclists – especially enthusiasts – train and interact. As AI interfaces have become more sophisticated, cyclists can expect personalized recommendations and enhanced training experiences based on their unique profiles. These analyses herald a new era of accessibility and customization for cycling enthusiasts worldwide.
But the influence of AI in the professional cycling industry extends beyond improvements in design and performance-related innovations. One of these areas is associated with safety, so with IoT-enabled devices and leveraging AI algorithms, elements have been developed to detect and prevent accidents in real-time, as well as the availability of smart helmets and sensors integrated into bicycles. The latter allows monitoring factors such as proximity to other vehicles, road conditions, or cyclist fatigue, issuing warnings or automatically adjusting settings to mitigate risks and enhance safety.
AI and Cycling, from Logistics to Emotion
AI algorithms integrated with IoT infrastructure are also transforming race management and spectator experiences. Real-time tracking of riders’ positions, speeds, and vital statistics enables organizers to optimize race logistics, improve broadcast coverage for television, and provide immersive experiences to spectators through interactive data visualizations and augmented reality overlays.
In another vital area within sports practice, the ongoing battle against doping in cycling has AI as a powerful ally for anti-doping efforts. Projects funded by organizations such as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Quebec research fund explore the use of AI to detect prohibited substances and methods. By harnessing this technology, these initiatives aim to enhance the integrity of the sport and protect its athletes from unfair practices.
However, despite its transformative potential, the adoption of AI in cycling faces several challenges. Biases and edge cases in AI models can lead to inaccuracies and biased results, highlighting the importance of comprehensive validation and supervision. Traceability emerges as a key concern, with the need for essential transparency in AI recommendations to ensure understanding and cyclist safety. Furthermore, the allure of data-driven insights must be balanced with the joy of cycling itself, emphasizing the importance of human experience and enjoyment in the sport.
Cycling is not unfamiliar to the Colombian multinational AZLOGICA®, which with over 16 years of experience and presence in ten countries in Europe and America, sees this sport as one of its objectives to develop solutions that help make it more attractive, inclusive, and safe, with the added benefit of contributing to Sustainability Goals, thanks to its ecological nature, its contribution to public health as an excellent form of exercise, and as a solution to urban mobility.
This means that, with its various solutions, AZLOGICA® is implementing systems and solutions adaptable to any of the alternatives outlined in this text. With IoT sensor monitoring and AI analytics, the company is capable of offering any ally in this economic and sports sector the tools to optimize and make the practice more efficient, as well as the instruments and safety associated with its practice.
As Artificial Intelligence continues to evolve, its impact on cycling will transcend borders. From recreational to professional cyclists, riders of all levels will benefit from AI-driven advancements. With technology as an ally, cyclists will unlock new levels of performance and redefine the limits of this sport. For AZLOGICA® and sector partners, it is clear that as we pedal towards the future, the synergy of human potential and artificial intelligence will propel cycling into uncharted territories, inspiring a new generation of cyclists to embrace innovation and excellence. With its ability to develop world-class solutions, AZLOGICA® is ready to tackle the challenges and needs presented by the safe and efficient practice of cycling.
