What is VO2max?
VO2max is the maximum rate at which your body can consume oxygen during exercise, measured in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (ml/kg/min). It is the gold standard measurement of aerobic fitness and represents your physiological ceiling for endurance performance.
Typical values for trained cyclists range from 50 to 65 ml/kg/min. Elite amateurs reach 65 to 75, and professional WorldTour riders typically measure 70 to 85+ ml/kg/min. The highest recorded values in cycling history exceed 90 ml/kg/min.
While VO2max sets the ceiling, performance is also determined by fractional utilization (how much of your VO2max you can sustain — your FTP is typically 72 to 80% of VO2max power) and efficiency (how effectively you convert oxygen into mechanical work). VO2max is trainable, particularly through high-intensity interval training, but has a strong genetic component.