Basic
Pacelining
By Brad Dunbar
Riding in a paceline is a very easy skill to master. However, you must
remember it takes practice and mental patience. While there are many
different types of pacelines, this article will discuss a single paceline.
The best size groups to practice pacelines with is from seven to 10
riders. Find a flat road with no signals and start riding two abreast.
For this scenario we will envision the wind is blowing from the front and
to the right. However, when riding in a paceline always pull off into the
wind (very important).
To start the paceline moving, the right front rider (into the wind) should
slow his pace slightly. When the sheltered rider on the left front has
lost peripheral vision of the front wheel of the rider on the right, he
should (not increasing his pace) slowly move to the right. As soon as he
is in front of the rider he just passed, he should then slow his pace.
The rider who was directly behind him when he was on the left side, would
then start the process all over again.
At the same time the two riders on the very back also have to a little
shifting. If you are on the right side of the paceline, watch the rider
on your left moving up past you. When his back wheel has cleared your
front wheel slowly slip to the left and behind him. Continue moving up to
the front and then pull off in the direction of rotation (in this case to
the right).
The group want to become a large smoothly rotating ellipse. If you don't
understand this concept, lay your bike on it's side and watch the action
the chain makes as you pedal. This is the action your group wants (don't
try to make the same action as the derailleur though).
Keep in mind the rider who is on the left front should not increase his
pace to over take the rider on the right. This would make everyone behind
on the left increase their pace. This opens gaps ;and defeats the
purpose of the paceline. After you have moved to the right, slow
slightly. the left sides group will automatically over take you.
Stay alert and pay attention. When riding in a paceline riders are
shifting and moving at different speeds and you must stay mentally awake.