Paceline and Group Riding for Smarter Cycling from Fit Werx

Group Riding: Faster, Safer, and Smarter Cycling

Dean Phillips – Fit Werx

This Session

• Pelotons• Pacelines• Group Riding Skills• Tips and Tricks

What is a Peloton? • Peloton – The main group of cyclists in an event or race. French for

Platoon or pack.

•In pro cycling the “Peleton” can refer to professional cyclists in general

“Pelotons” for the rest of us

• Club Rides• Charity Rides• Gran Fondos• Draft-legal triathlons

How does a paceline work?

• Ride Faster! • 2mph Faster from 30% drag reduction• More Visible to Traffic

Single Paceline – Most Common• Rider on the Front• 30-60 seconds on front• Maintain same speed/cadence• Don’t speed up!• Point out potholes, objects to avoid

• Following Riders• Look Ahead• Full wheel between bikes• Small corrections• Anticipate what’s ahead

What happens if I get “dropped”?

• Drop vs No Drop rides• Clubs will list average ride speeds.

– 15mph group– 18-20mph group

• Know the route• Agree to ride with a friend• Maps on smart phones and bike computers

What happens if I get a flat tire?

• No Drop rides will wait and help you• Have spare tube/co2 with you, even if you don’t

know how to change it yourself.

Tips and TricksRide Faster and Longer in Group Rides

• Tips• Know the route• Plan fuel and hydration• Know the riders

• Tricks• Sit on the back of small groups• Ride behind the biggest rider• Avoid the front in headwinds• Roll out first at aid stations• Slide to the back at intersections• Bring extra water bottles, and skip an aid station

Questions?

Dean Phillips