In the world of cycling, Functional Threshold Power (FTP) is a metric that has become a source of fascination and friendly rivalry among enthusiasts. But what does it really mean when we compare our FTP to that of the best cyclists in the world? Let's delve into this intriguing topic and explore some fascinating insights.
The FTP Elite
When we talk about the elite cyclists, their FTPs often start with the number 4, and in rare cases, even 5. However, when we narrow it down to the very best, we're looking at an FTP range of around 450 watts. This is an exclusive club, and the members are an interesting bunch.
Heavyweights and Lightweights
Cyclists like Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Mads Pedersen, who weigh between 75 and 80 kilograms, can sustain power outputs of 300 to 400 watts for hours. While impressive, their w/kg ratio is more relatable to the average enthusiast. But then we have riders like Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel, and Paul Seixas, who weigh significantly less, around 60 to 63 kilograms. This is where things get interesting.
The Unfathomable Power of Tadej Pogačar
Tadej Pogačar is a rider in a league of his own. With an estimated FTP of 450 watts, his w/kg ratio is off the charts. At his ideal race weight of around 65 kilograms, Pogačar's FTP translates to a staggering 6.9 w/kg. This explains his top-level climbing performances, where he has consistently pushed 6.9 to 7 w/kg for 35 to 40 minutes, even in the third week of the Tour de France.
The Power Gap
Pogačar's closest rival, Jonas Vingegaard, has an estimated FTP of 410 watts, which is still an impressive feat. However, the gap in raw power between the two is significant, with Pogačar having an estimated wattage advantage of 50 watts. This power discrepancy is evident on the steepest climbs, where Vingegaard can keep up with riders like Evenepoel, Seixas, and Del Toro, but struggles as the gradient lessens.
Aerodynamics and the Flatlands
The raw power advantage also plays out on the flats and in time trials. While Pogačar can push 550 watts in crosswinds and stay in his VO2 Max zone, Vingegaard, with the same raw power, is working in his anaerobic zone. This is where aerodynamics come into play. Remco Evenepoel, with a lower raw FTP than Pogačar and a lower w/kg FTP than Vingegaard, has found success by being incredibly aerodynamic. He can hold his own on the climbs and then excel on the flats and in time trials.
The Classics and the Cobblestones
On flatter roads, especially on the bumpy classics courses of Flanders and Roubaix, raw power becomes the great equalizer. Riders like Mads Pedersen, Wout van Aert, and Mathieu van der Poel, with their high FTPs, can match Pogačar's power output, even if their w/kg ratios are lower. This is where the cobblestones of Flanders and Roubaix become a deciding factor, as the 'aero bullet' position is impossible to maintain.
The Rising Stars
Then we have the young guns, Isaac del Toro and Paul Seixas, who are already among the best at such a young age. With estimated FTPs of around 410 watts, they are improving rapidly. It's hard to imagine the established stars gaining significant power at this point in their careers, but these young riders seem to be getting stronger by the month.
Final Thoughts
Comparing FTPs is a fun way to gauge our progress and appreciate the incredible feats of the professionals. While power is an important metric, it's just one piece of the puzzle. The ability to sustain power, aerodynamics, and the unique challenges of different courses all play a role in determining a rider's success. So, while we may never reach the FTPs of the pros, we can still appreciate the beauty of the sport and the incredible athletes who push the boundaries of human performance.
