A recent thread has discussed drafting. Let's just agree that it's a Bad Thing and go on from there. I'd like suggestions for avoiding it.
In one sprint race last summer (Bala Falls, 30k cycle over rolling hills) a major peleton developed. This wasn't a single pace line; it filled the lane. I tried to break free several times. Just getting out required crossing the yellow line (not cool in itself, especially on an out-and-back) but I couldn't stay out. I pulled off in front three or four times. Each time I could escape on the uphill, but on the downhill I was helplessly reeled in. A pack moves when the wind resistance builds. I eventually dropped off the back, but that's not winning style. It still felt less uncomfortable than being sucked along in a no-drafting race.
In the absence of marshalls (and I'll be flagging this problem to the organizers ahead of time this year), what can an individual competitor do? Basic physics says a pack is going to build on itself. Your thoughts?
Cheers -- John
In one sprint race last summer (Bala Falls, 30k cycle over rolling hills) a major peleton developed. This wasn't a single pace line; it filled the lane. I tried to break free several times. Just getting out required crossing the yellow line (not cool in itself, especially on an out-and-back) but I couldn't stay out. I pulled off in front three or four times. Each time I could escape on the uphill, but on the downhill I was helplessly reeled in. A pack moves when the wind resistance builds. I eventually dropped off the back, but that's not winning style. It still felt less uncomfortable than being sucked along in a no-drafting race.
In the absence of marshalls (and I'll be flagging this problem to the organizers ahead of time this year), what can an individual competitor do? Basic physics says a pack is going to build on itself. Your thoughts?
Cheers -- John