Zwift w/kg question

Hi,

Im after some advice. I have experienced some rapid improvements in my zwift racing results recently but kind of feel like my fitness hasnt improved. I am wondering if there is potentially a bug in my zwift account, trainer or internet connection that is giving me an advantage. I was an inconsistent c rider for a long time then suddenly im a strong B rider and keepeing up with some A riders. I dont really train but race 3-4 times per week 20-25km races is all I do. I use a wahoo kickr bike v1 and run zwift on a newish PC connection via bluetooth and internet is on 5g. Trainer difficulty set to maximum in zwift.

Ive noticed that in most of my recent races I am placing reasonably high in the group of riders but my w/kg numbers are quite a lot lower than most in the group. My most recent race numbers as pictured (my numbers highlighted in yellow).

I contacted zwift support on this but they said its likely just a difference in my riding style compared to others. Im just not convinced, it just seems odd to me. I am absolutley flogged during these races and have nothing left in the tank at the end. I tend to find that I cant hold a sustained effort to keep with the front of the pack but I more cling on to the back with short sharp sprint efforts. Usually the pace slows a little in the final 2kms which gives me time to recover and I can put in a good final sprint to the finish in the last few hundred meters which tends to move me up a few places.

If look at the figures from last race (as above) though I came third but the riders in 4th and 5th position had better w/kg numbers accross all time intervals. They not only had better 20min but also quite a lot higher 15sec numbers. I am approximately the same weight as one of the riders 80ish vs 75ish kgs so would have thought they would place in front of me.

Anyhow just interested to see if anyone has experienced this, if its normal or if i need to do some more investigation with my set up in case theres a bug.

Thanks.

Simply way is to try and dual record with some dual sided pedals to see if the power matches.

Other than that, have you started using a different pedalling style or do you just feel stronger or improved your RaceCraft :tm:

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I don’t see any fundamental error. Your good results also fit the numbers. Your normalized power is very high, which means you put in a brutal effort, and the high heart rate fits. The lightweights can’t keep up with you on the flat, and with more watts you’ll be able to pass the lightweights at the end.

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I dont really feel any stronger but do push myself harder to stay with the group and catch breakaways before theyre out of touch.

I have throught about getying some power meter pedels but its an expensive way to find out if theres a problem.

Thanks Hiltja. Agree and understand that light riders are disadvantaged on the flats but the rider who came 4th is what really has me stumped. That rider had higher watts and NP but is only 6kg lighter than me!

Likely they drafted less than you, which can make a huge difference.