Knowledge Base > Simulation and Planning

Introduction to the Ride Simulator

The Ride Simulator is currently in closed beta. These pages document features that are not yet generally available. Apply for Early Access

Simulations you create during the beta may not carry over to the production version. We aim to migrate them — this would only be prevented if beta findings require extensive changes to the architecture or data structure.

The Ride Simulator is a simulation environment for cycling that combines physics-based models with rider-specific physiological data. From power output, aerodynamics, gradient, rolling resistance, body metrics, and metabolic parameters, it computes realistic speed profiles and carbohydrate usage in near real time.

Overview of the AI DIAGNOSTICS Ride Simulator

Overview of the Ride Simulator interface — toolbar, sidebar, and dashboard.

Why Use a Simulator?

A performance test provides valuable data about your physiology – but the true benefit only emerges when you translate that data into actionable strategies for training and racing. The Ride Simulator bridges exactly this gap: it transforms analysis results from your AI DIAGNOSTICS performance diagnostics into concrete race-day plans.

Typical use cases include:

Race preparation: Simulate your planned race course with real elevation and weather data to find the optimal power distribution.
Pacing optimization: Discover how different power distributions affect your overall time and energy expenditure.
Nutrition and hydration planning: Plan carbohydrate intake and fluid consumption based on your individual metabolism and course conditions.
Equipment decisions: Compare the time impact of different wheels, riding positions, or bike types using A/B scenarios.
Understanding physiological limits: See how VO2max, VLamax, and anaerobic capacity constrain your performance at different intensities.

Key Capabilities at a Glance

The Ride Simulator offers a comprehensive set of tools for race planning and performance analysis:

Physics-based speed computation: Determines the realistic speed at every point along the course by balancing input power against all resistance forces.
Course modeling: Import real courses (GPX/TCX/FIT) with elevation profiles and GPS coordinates for map visualization.
Weather integration: Automatically load historical or forecast weather data for GPS-enabled courses.
Nutrition planning: Use an extensive database of real sports nutrition products with modeled carbohydrate absorption.
Fluid and sodium tracking: Plan fluid intake based on sweat rate and monitor sodium balance.
AI DIAGNOSTICS analysis import: Import your physiology data for personalized demand calculations.
A/B scenario comparison: Compare two strategies side by side and see time differences directly.
Project sharing and management: Save, share, and manage your simulation projects.

Who Is the Simulator For?

The Ride Simulator is designed for athletes, coaches, and performance analysts who want to make data-driven decisions for training and racing. It is particularly valuable for:

Triathlon: Plan bike legs with specific nutrition and pacing strategies while preserving energy reserves for the subsequent run.
Time trials: Optimize riding position, aerodynamics, and power distribution for maximum speed.
Road racing: Simulate key moments in a race and plan energy distribution across the full distance.

Explore Further

The following pages cover each feature area in detail, helping you get the most out of the simulator:

Interface and Project Management – Dashboard layout, project management, and A/B comparison.
Course and Weather – Course import, map visualization, and weather conditions.
Power and Aerodynamics – Power editor, drafting models, and equipment.
Nutrition and Hydration – Nutrition planning, product database, and fluid management.
Importing Analysis Data – How to use your AI DIAGNOSTICS analysis in the simulator.
Physics and Methods – Scientific foundations and calculation models.