Speed in paceline vs. solo ride

[li10up]

SK, Actually that does help, even though you were being sarcastic. I never would have guessed that a recreational rider (although I believe you are one of the stronger riders on this forum - I think you race too, don't you?) could gain that much of a benefit from a draft...10 mph would be awesome.

Smilingcat - d@mn.......that is fast!

So, it looks like I have some fun times ahead if I stick with this. Riding at nearly 30 miles an hour blows my mind.

Thanks V...I'll try to lighten up.

[maillotpois]

You've got to really train if you're going to be in the 20 - 30 mph zone.

But it's possible. In one race I do, my average speed for 115 miles is generally 20 - 22 mph. But that's a flat race. So back to terrain. It depends.

[SadieKate]

(although I believe you are one of the stronger riders on this forum - I think you race too, don't you?)

No and not really.

I don't consider myself one of the stronger riders, maybe just a more experienced recreational rider and more technically/mechnically savvy than average. I only race informal 10 mile time trials and the odd team tri when I have a hankerin'.

It takes a lot of very strong riders to maintain a 10+ mph boost. It also takes skill and wits to be safe in those increased speeds. Truthfully, a pace line doesn't make you a faster rider because the faster speeds of a paceline are artificial. You aren't generally working as hard as you would solo so you have to train, train, train -- and you have to learn how to handle a paceline. Pacelines are only a way to maximize resources for the one ride.

Off to change my Depends . . . .