Science of Cycling

What causes an energy “bonk”? How do you avoid “cracking” on a climb? What’s the best way to improve mitochondrial performance? Should you ride harder into a headwind or with a tailwind at your back – and why should crosswinds be tackled diagonally? Can rougher fabrics sometimes be more aerodynamic? Is the peloton a superorganism and should we be afraid?!

Cycling melds the human body to an engineering marvel and pits them collectively against geography, gravity, and the elements. Little wonder, then, that the cycling experience – and your cycling form – is enriched and transformed by scientific understanding, to a greater extent than perhaps any other sport.

More easy to digest and stimulating than an energy gel, and more visually stunning than a ride in the Alps, Science of Cycling takes the varied and remarkable science of the bicycle, the cyclist, and the bike race, and makes it accessible to everyone.

While knowledge is power, what you really want to know is how precisely it can boost your watts-to-kilogram ratio on the road. Which is why Science of Cycling translates all this know-how into practical steps to boost your cycling form, allowing you to create a full-spectrum training program of varied session rides, targeted strength exercises, bike handling practice, and efficient fueling regimes to help you get fitter, leaner, faster – and freer to roam.

Wherever you want to take your love of two wheels – whether you just need to get out and get fit, start moving up the (virtual) bunch, or aim to climb the podium – Science of Cycling will get you there faster.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs