Aerodynamic drag from tires significantly impacts racing bicycle performance at competitive and recreational speeds. This study presents an engineering methodology for developing racing bicycle tires with optimized profiles that reduce aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance. A key focus is increasing the stall resistance of the tire-wheel assembly, enabling incoming lateral wind to contribute to forward motion by reducing resistance. The development process combines computational fluid dynamics simulations with experimental testing protocols, analyzing airflow behavior under various racing conditions. Results demonstrate reduced aerodynamic drag compared to conventional designs while maintaining rolling efficiency. Critical geometric parameters affecting wake formation, flow separation and energy dissipation were identified. The optimized profile improves aerodynamic performance without compromising structural integrity or rolling resistance, providing practical guidelines for competitive tire development.

• How tire profile design influences aerodynamic efficiency in high-performance road cycling
• The role of geometry in balancing aerodynamics and rolling resistance
• How advanced CFD simulations predict airflow behavior around tires and rims