Group Ride Etiquette – Paceline – Pulling
Paceline Etiquette if you are going to PULL
A majority of cyclist have had some experience riding in a group or what is called paceline formation. Depending on the group size and skill level, each rider in a paceline takes a turn riding in front, setting the pace and breaking the wind. There are many inexperienced riders that may not know some very important principles of riding in a group formation, because they have not been told.
The basics of group ride etiquette are designed to move the group along at a consistent speed and avoid accidents. As a group it is critical for all riders to be efficient. Other than for socialization the main goal of the group is to keep its speed faster than any single member of the group could maintain on his or her own. The reason is that is is said to be 30% easier to ride in formation behind someone, where wind resistance is lower. One of the most important goals of the group should be to avoid the accidents riding that can happen when riding inches from each other.
1. To keep from creating gaps you should keep speed steady when assuming the front position. You do not want the paceline to look like an accordion. If this s not done eventually the efforts put forth in closing gaps will wear down riders in the paceline, especially the back. It is very important if you are taking the front position that you keep your eye on your speed and maintain that speed within .5 mph and can slowly increase if needed. A gradual increase in speed will avoid gaps and help the riders behind strong.
2. Once you complete your pull (front rider in group breaking wind) move off to the side with a well safe defined movement. If you stay along side of pace leaders it can be unsafe you should drop back in the paceline. This will keep the paceline flowing smoothly.
3. Once you complete your pull, slow down your speed from the pack, you must immediately slow down but be sure there no other riders around that are not in the paceline.
