OK, I think some of you hit on some really good points, some of which nick my ego a bit more than just blaming it on machismo (yes, they are all men that do this), but it may be time to face facts on this point.

First, I don't have a full bike length between the rear wheel of the person ahead of me and my front wheel. Really, I think it's just a few inches, but I might be misjudging.

Also, when this happens, we're more in a pack than a paceline, so that leads a bit to the probable heart of the matter: I may not ride as "straight" as I should. Perhaps, as at least one of you alluded to, they may be passing me because I make them nervous by being a bit squirrly.

Definately something to work on - and thanks for the friendly and honest perspective, all.

(Woe is me that my first footrace (only 2 miles) is on the same day as the LBC's beginner's ride! I probably could learn a lot about pack riding and pacelines, not to mention other ettiquette!)

Oh, but hey - here's a(nother) stupid question (I can hijack my own thread, right? ) : I know that drafting makes riding easier on the person behind, but does it make it harder on the person in front?