Not only are pacelines flat out fun, but they GREATLY conserve energy if done properly. Weather it's in a race or a leasurely ride, it will make a group of riders roll faster and smoother together.
It does get frustrating when riders join a paceline but don't know, or understand, how to keep a proper paceline flowing. It's not their fault either; everyone has to learn somehow from somewhere. For women especially, pacelines can be intimidating at first; so pay attention:
A Single Paceline can be started with 2 or more people. All riders assemble into a single-file line and maintain a steady, consistent pace. The lead rider pulls off to the side and drifts to the back of the line. The rider behind him/her then takes the lead for a few seconds to several minutes (sometimes the group will agree on a how long to pull). The rider taking the lead should maintain a steady pace and not accelerate at all.
A Double Paceline is ideal for larger groups with more road space. Instead of one single-file line, riders will establish two lines riding two abreast. The two lead riders will keep a consistent pace until pulling off. The rider on the left will pull to the left, while the rider on the right will pull off to the right. Riders should make sure no cars are coming and plenty of space is provided before drifting to the back. The riders next in line do not accelerate when taking the lead, but continue to maintain a steady cadence.
A Rotating Double Paceline is a little more tricky than the others. It is often formed to keep a group moving faster and requires less rest. This paceline is more energy efficient because it is constantly rotating (nobody pulls more than a few seconds at a time). One line will move faster, while the other slower. (Slower line will be blocking wind for faster line). The rotation should move clockwise if the wind is coming from the right and counterclockwise if from the left. Lets say the rotation is moving counterclockwise, then the lead rider on the right side will make sure he/she has enough room, then move left and take the lead of slower line. The rider will drift all the way back until last in line, then move right into the faster line again. The rotating paceline may take a few rotations before becoming in sync and steady. The rotation gets out of wack when the lead rider of the fast line accelerates, creating a gap. Try to glance back before drifting to either side to make sure you have enough room and not creating a gap.
Tips for any paceline:
- For experienced riders, keep about a foot between wheels. Widen the gap if inexperienced
- NEVER overlap wheels!
- Ride predictable
- Don't accelerate or decelerate suddenly
- Don't jump into a paceline with people you don't know. Their riding style may be sketchy and dangerous
- Don't be afraid to communicate. Let a rider know they have enough room to pull off if they look weary. Hand signals, such as a flick of the elbow, can also be used to make aware you are rotating through.
- If you become tired, don't hesitate to be the "gate keeper" and sit in the back for a couple rotations.
- NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER USE AERO BARS
- NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER RIDE IN PACELINE WITH PEOPLE ON AERO PARS
