Optimization of superelevation runoff model for cycling tracks

Abstract

To improve the possible superelevation runoff models for the cycling track design, at first, two existing representative superelevation runoff models used in China were investigated and fitted. Then, an optimization methodology was proposed, which was focused on the track geometry itself, without the consideration of the physical characteristic of the cyclist, assuming that less vertical curvature values correspond to less riding time. The riding performance formulae were obtained with the variables of riding time, riding velocity and vertical curvature of cycling track. Finally, with the refined adjustment on the vertical curvatures with the help of cycling track design software and considering the effect of horizontal alignments, the optimized models were finalized. It is clearly seen that these optimized models take the form of quartic parabola and are verified to achieve 0.005–0.021 s improvement in the event of 200 m time trial.

Keywords

cycling track / superelevation runoff / optimization design / track geometry