How does wind angle affect the impact?

A direct headwind (0°) has the maximum effect. At 45° the headwind component is about 70% of full wind speed. At 90° (pure crosswind) there is no direct headwind component.

Does a crosswind slow you down?

A pure crosswind has minimal direct speed impact but can cause handling difficulties and force you to ride less aerodynamically.

How much speed do I lose in a headwind?

In a 20 km/h headwind at 30 km/h, you might lose 8-12 km/h if maintaining the same power output.

BikeCalcs

Wind Effect Calculator — Impact on Speed and Power

Calculate the impact of wind on speed and power requirements.

Riding Speed

Wind Speed

Wind Angle

0° = headwind, 90° = crosswind, 180° = tailwind

CdA

Total Weight

How We Calculate This

Wind Effect Calculation

Headwind component = Wind speed x cos(angle)
Crosswind component = Wind speed x sin(angle)
Effective air speed = Riding speed + Headwind component

0° = direct headwind, 90° = pure crosswind, 180° = direct tailwind.

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify results and consult a professional bike fitter where appropriate.