Riding technique for road cyclists: Riding a road bike safely in a group
Anyone who has ever had to fight the wind alone knows how helpful the slipstream of another cyclist can be. The larger the group, the less wind you will feel - provided you are riding in the right position. Our video tutorial on position and formation when riding in a group in a crosswind shows you where this is and how you should behave when riding in a group.
The tips in the video
Hand signals are important
Training in a group is fun and helps you to get used to riding in groups, which is common at events for everyone. The most important step when riding in a group is communication - because to be safe on the road, you should be able to understand and pass on the basic hand signals of your fellow riders.
The following applies: Whoever is riding in front is responsible for the safety of the group and must point out dangers. Following cyclists must pass on the signals - never rely on the fact that those behind you have already seen the hand signal. Leave enough distance, especially if you have not ridden together often - safety comes before slipstreaming!
Road cycling in a group: Show obstacles
Point out potholes, broken glass or manhole covers in good time with an outstretched index finger. Important: Only point out obstacles that really are obstacles. Otherwise your fellow cyclists will quickly become less willing to pass on the information - and then you'll hit the next real pothole.
Riding a road bike in a group: avoiding obstacles
In the case of larger obstacles, such as parked cars, the entire group must move their driving line - the sooner the better. To do this, wave the people behind you away from the obstacle by repeatedly waving your whole arm behind your back.
Watch out! During the race, you should not rely on your fellow riders to indicate all obstacles. You yourself should also prioritise a straight driving line. It's better to be ready to brake than to gesticulate wildly! The most effective way is to announce obstacles out loud.
Riding a road bike in a group: slow down
Your palm faces the ground and your hand moves slowly up and down. This is helpful if you are approaching a junction or if (oncoming) traffic could present a major obstacle.
Riding a road bike in a group: stopping
Stretch your arm upwards and signal a stop to your passengers with the flat of your hand. Brake gently so that your passengers have enough time to react.
Riding a road bike in a group: two-person row
According to road traffic regulations, groups of more than 15 riders may cycle in two rows travelling side by side. The outstretched index and middle fingers signal the division of the group into the two-rider row, the index finger signals the change back to the single-rider row. Important: Leaders who allow themselves to be broken off should always drop back to the outside!
Riding in the slipstream
Riding in the slipstream saves a lot of energy. A wind tunnel simulation by Eindhoven University in 2018 even came to the conclusion that you can use up to 95 per cent less power than the leader in a field of 121 riders - if you are positioned correctly. Even if you're not riding in such a large field in an amateur race, it's undisputed that the closer you are to the rear wheel, the greater the energy savings. However, especially on relaxed training rides, you should not overdo it and leave the gap at half a wheel length. Important: Always keep in line so as not to endanger others. Especially when looking back, there is a risk of twisting the handlebars slightly. It helps to lean on the shoulder of the rider next to you.
Riding a road bike in a group: pay attention during the race
During the race, you will be confronted with critical situations time and again. In order to master these as relaxed as possible, you should simulate the race situations with a familiar group beforehand. Test your comfort zone: Ride with the front wheel close between two rear wheels, ride shoulder to shoulder, lightly touch the handlebars of the person next to you.
Important: Practise on soft ground and at a slow pace to minimise the risk of injury in the event of a fall!
Riding a road bike in a group: the right position
The motto is to save energy but stay on the lookout. In positions eight to twelve, or three to four for groups of less than ten riders, you will get enough slipstream, but remain ready for action. If you ride in the front third of the group, you can not only keep up with attacks, but also minimise the risk of crashing. If you are not yet comfortable riding in the middle of a large field, you can ride in the third or fourth row on the left or right. This gives you more room to manoeuvre in the event of a crash and makes it easier to get to the front. The disadvantage is that you cannot save as much energy as in the centre of the field due to possible crosswinds. No matter what position you ride in: Riding with foresight and being ready to brake is the most important principle when riding in a group.
