What Makes A Good Wheel To Follow?

In road races, you often hear the advice to take a good wheel. – Basically, it refers to an experienced rider. A rider who will not cause problems, but is safe, alert and probably a strong rider with a good chance of doing well.

A good bunch rider will have the following characteristics

• Physically fit and strong -able to respond to changes in pace.
• Confidence. This is the confidence to know safe descending speeds, and safe distances from the front wheels. A confident ride will not allow gaps to develop or display hesitation. This is different to the arrogant over confidence some new riders may display. A confident rider will do the right things effortlessly.
• Smooth Pedalling style. An experienced rider will keep his upper body still and pedal with his legs. A rider who is all over the place, gives signs he is tired or an inexperienced rider.
• Smooth transitions. For example, when standing on the pedals, you can suddenly slow down, causing problems for people behind you. An experience rider, will change down gears and compensate for this potential slowing down. They will also make smooth transitions to new places in the group. They know which gaps can be taken and when it could cause a crash.
• Concentration. Riding in a long road race means that you can easily lose concentration, especially when you are tired in the final stages. It is always important to be alert and aware of dangers. Most crashes stem from inattention and lack of concentration.
• Signals. When riding in a group it is important to signal pitfalls like potholes or change of direction.
• Holding Line. When you are riding on your own, you can take the shortest racing line round a corner. But, in a bunch, you can’t do this; you need to hold your line, if you start cutting corners, you will cause ripple effect throughout the bunch.
• Smooth braking. Another important skill is to avoid sudden braking, this can cause a ripple effect throughout the bunch. Learn to brake gently, anticipating sharp corners, also use your body to act as a natural windbreak.

Cycling in a chain gang