Guess who: Inside the mind of Instagram’s CyclingSpy

Say the word spy to us cyclists and increasingly we might think of the @CyclingSpy Instagram account. This pseudonymous account has become a fascinating source of spotted tech, product leaks, and aero observations. One day it’s a new frame, the next a new arm warmer texture.

This week, CyclingSpy joins Ronan for a rare, anonymous conversation.

Always sharp. Often first. Occasionally blunt. But never identified.If there’s an aero gain to be found, or a questionable “gain” to debunk, they’ve probably already posted about it, broken it down, and made you wonder if we really understand what makes you fast.

We unpack the origins of the account, the engineering mindset behind it, and why anonymity is its superpower. From wind tunnels to CFD, skin suit mysteries to UCI politics, this episode dives deep into how we test, tweak, and obsess over aero gains.

Most of all, we challenge the binary “what’s fastest?” mindset and explore how understanding why something works is the key to developing truly faster tech. Cycling Spy brings an insider’s view of aerospace, Formula 1, and pro cycling R&D, revealing the unknowns that could provide yet another step change in cycling performance.

Side note: This week’s episode won’t be the last time you hear CyclingSpy on the Performance Process podcast. In fact, CyclingSpy will be joining us once a month for a dedicated performance tech related episode in which the Spy will first provide their take on a specific topic, perhaps a new aero bike launch or a new aero trend. Then, in the second half of the show the Spy will answer listener questions. Escape Collective members can submit their questions for the Spy here. That said, we simple can’t answer which TT helmet works best for you, or individual specific bike fitting/aero position questions. With that in mind, try to keep your questions focused on topics and trends that will broaden our collective understanding and a voice note of around one minute is perfect.

Show notes:
Introduction to the Cycling Spy (00:00)

• Ronan Mc Laughlin introduces the podcast and the mystery of the Cycling Spy, a figure known for analyzing performance tech on Instagram.
• Ronan Mc Laughlin tries to uncover Cycling Spy’s identity with a game of guess who.
• Ronan Mc Laughlin and the Cycling Spy discuss the speculation about who the Cycling Spy might be, including Dan Bigham and Ronan himself.

Personal Background and Expertise (06:00)

• The Cycling Spy reveals they have a degree in aerospace engineering and experience working in Formula One and cycling.
• They have developed methods for visualising aerodynamics and have worked on products that have achieved world records and TDF stage wins.
• The Cycling Spy mentions they are bound by NDAs, which adds to their credibility in the industry.
• Ronan Mc Laughlin asks about the specific area of expertise, and the Cycling Spy humorously responds, "making people go fast."

Anonymity and Community Involvement (13:30)

• The Cycling Spy explains the importance of anonymity to maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of the account.
• They receive many submissions from the community, which helps the account stay current and relevant.
• The Cycling Spy emphasises the value of the community in spotting new products and sharing insights.
• Ronan Mc Laughlin and the Cycling Spy discuss the balance between keeping the account anonymous and providing valuable information to the community.
• The Cycling Spy shares their motivation for starting the account, inspired by similar accounts in Formula One.
• They aim to fill a niche by focusing on small performance differences that larger magazines often overlook.
• The account helps junior riders by providing advice and breaking down complex aerodynamic concepts.
• The Cycling Spy discusses the potential for the account to evolve and possibly go public if the right opportunity arises.

Challenges and Future of Aerodynamics in Cycling (27:49)

• The Cycling Spy discusses the limitations of current aerodynamic testing methods and the potential for significant improvements.
• They highlight the importance of understanding the physics behind aerodynamics to develop faster equipment.
• The conversation touches on the potential for dramatic changes in cycling equipment as aerodynamic understanding advances.
• The Cycling Spy shares their thoughts on the future of aerodynamics in cycling and the potential for new technologies to revolutionize the sport.

Testing and Optimization Strategies (43:50)

• The Cycling Spy advises on the importance of testing both on the road and in the wind tunnel to validate results.
• They emphasise the need for a robust testing protocol to ensure accurate data and meaningful improvements.
• The conversation covers the challenges of interpreting aerodynamic data and the importance of experience in making informed decisions.
• The Cycling Spy shares their approach to helping riders optimise their equipment and position through testing and analysis.

Industry Insights and Future Directions (56:38)

• The Cycling Spy discusses the varying levels of understanding and development within the cycling industry.
• They mention some brands that are actively exploring new technologies and methods to improve aerodynamics.
• The conversation touches on the importance of transparency and honesty in marketing claims by brands.
• The Cycling Spy reflects on the potential for the account to influence the industry and the future of cycling performance.

Final Thoughts and Future Plans (01:01:00)

• Ronan Mc Laughlin and the Cycling Spy discuss the potential for the account to evolve and possibly go public in the future.
• The Cycling Spy expresses appreciation for the community and the support they have received.
• They mention the possibility of using different platforms to share their insights and continue engaging with the community.
• The conversation concludes with a nod to the future of the account and the potential for continued contributions to the cycling community.