Sports Performance Wind Tunnel
The SSEH Sports Performance Wind Tunnel has been built to make cycling aerodynamics easier, more accessible and affordable for athletes, teams and coaches. Designed specifically for bikes and supported by the cycling-focused community at SSEH, it delivers reliable results while keeping costs and complexity to a minimum.
Benefits Of SSEH's Wind Tunnel
Save Money
Enjoy high-quality aerodynamic feedback without the high price tag. It’s a smart, cost-effective way to get the data that helps you go faster.
Results You Can Rely On
Strict environmental control and regular pre-session checks mean your test results remain consistent from the first run to the last.
Secure Data Mangement
Delivering real-time data, athlete imaging, and sport-specific metrics through a fully customisable data management system, helping athletes and coaches spot improvements instantly.
Remote Testing
Not able to visit in person? Simply send your products to SSEH. We’ll run the tests for you and deliver clear, actionable data directly to your inbox, no travel required.
Quick, hassle-free bike setup, an intuitive data-management system and expert technicians on hand, you can focus on what matters most: getting clear, reliable aerodynamic insights that help you ride faster. Whether you're a pro, a coach or a bike manufacturer, our wind tunnel makes high-quality aero testing straightforward, welcoming and ready when you are.
Sports Performance Wind Tunnel
Pricing
Get your custom quote today!
Wind Tunnel Facilities
Every Wind Tunnel Session Includes Gear Access
When you book the Silverstone Sports Performance Wind Tunnel, you also gain full access to our state-of-the-art cycling equipment. Test, compare, and fine-tune a wide range of performance gear to uncover the combinations that deliver the greatest aerodynamic advantage for you.
Warm Tunnel, Modern Facilities, Complimentary Drinks
At Silverstone Sports Performance, we know that every detail counts. Our wind tunnel is warm and ready for peak testing, and our spacious, modern changing rooms are just steps away, complete with showers, toilets, and ample space to get ready. Enjoy complimentary teas and coffees before or after your session, and take advantage of a professional, comfortable environment designed to help you focus on one thing - maximising your performance.
Remote Testing
With SSEH Remote Wind Tunnel Testing, you don’t need to travel to Silverstone to optimise your performance. Simply send us your bike, helmet, or gear, and our team will set it up and run the tests for you, delivering precise aerodynamic data remotely. It’s a convenient, cost-effective way to access world-class wind tunnel testing without leaving home, helping you make smarter equipment and setup decisions.
The Technical Bit
Whether you're developing a faster bicycle, optimising rider position or evaluating equipment, the Silverstone Sports Engineering Wind Tunnel provides a controlled environment for aerodynamic testing and performance development.
With adjustable wind speed and yaw angle, dedicated cycling test capabilities and repeatable drag measurements, the facility supports aerodynamic development for bicycles, riders and other sports performance applications.
Cycling Test Capabilities
Power-off testing
- Front and rear coupled resistance rollers.
- Adjustable resistance control.
Power-in testing
- Drive-wheel or pedalling-mannequin testing.
- Cycling-specific sensors for wheel speed, wheel power and rider cadence.
Environmental Control
Four 14kW HVAC units maintain the ambient temperature within the specified operating range.
Air density, humidity and atmospheric pressure are not directly controlled. The wind tunnel control software compensates for changes in air conditions by scaling wind speed accordingly, helping to maintain repeatable drag measurements.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
| Configuration | Open-jet, open-return |
| Working section | 2m × 2m |
| Working section length | 5.8m |
| Maximum wind speed | Up to 22m/s (80km/h / 50mph); higher speeds available on request |
| Yaw angle | +30° to −30° |
| Turbulence intensity | 1% across the operating speed range |
| Environmental temperature | 20°C ±2°C |
Testing Applications
The facility is predominantly used for bicycle and rider aerodynamics, supporting testing and development across a range of cycling applications. It can also accommodate other sports performance and engineering test programmes, subject to suitability.
For further information about test setup, available equipment and booking a session, please contact the Silverstone Sports Engineering team.
The Sports Performance Wind Tunnel, is manufactured and supplied by Sports Aero Solutions Ltd
How does it work?
Air is drawn into the tunnel aperture by the fan at the rear. As air moves through the tunnel, it first passes through a series of screens to smooth the flow and reduce turbulence. As the tunnel narrows, it accelerates the airflow to the desired test speed and helps to further control turbulence. The athlete is positioned in the test section, at the centre of the flow on a force measurement rig called the ergo. The ergo can also be rotated (“yawed”) to reproduce crosswinds. By using an open-jet configuration, the air can spread around the athlete and replicate real-world conditions.
The flow then passes through the fan, which drives the entire system. The final element of the wind tunnel is the diffuser. This section slows the air speed down to allow the air to recirculate in the building and reduce running costs.
Data Acquisition and User Interface
The SSEH Performance Wind Tunnel is equipped with a bespoke data acquisition system and user interface called ADC (Aerodynamic Data Centre). In addition to capturing drag data, the system also gathers sport-specific measurements (like cadence in cycling) and athlete position imaging.
The user interface includes a data and image projection for the athlete in the wind tunnel and data screens for the tunnel operator and coach. The system is designed to make any areas of improvement easy to identify in order to maximise the value of each tunnel session. These systems can also be completely customised to fit your needs.
Contact Us Today To Book Your Sports Performance Wind Tunnel Session
To book your session, please get in touch via the link below.
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Wind Tunnel
Opening Hours
Weekdays
09.00 - 17:00
Evenings & Weekends
Evenings: 18:00 – 22:00
Weekends: 09:00 – 17:00