Speed in paceline vs. solo ride

[Eden]

Respectfully I think they are saying it depends because throwing out a random number really isn't going to help you at all. I couldn't give you a number as to tell you the truth I really have no idea. Sometimes I can hammer along alone faster than I usually paceline at, sometimes speeds that I would normally say are slow feel incredibly hard even in a paceline. Sometimes I could go faster than the paceline if I wanted to, but the bigger question would be how long could I keep that up? So unless the pace of the group is pushing you to your limit and you are going to blow up (which then will result in your falling off the back and moving even more slowly than you would have if you stayed by yourself and kept a steady pace...... etc. - get the idea how variable something like this can really be.....), you probably will be able to travel faster in the paceline. If you aren't traveling faster you'll probably get to your destination less tired. How much faster????? who knows.

yeah and +1 for Sadie Kate - who you are drafting totally makes a difference. My powerful 6'4" husband gives me a much better speed lift than one of my 5' team mates ever could....