2006-08-09 15:18:45 · 6 answers · asked by Matt S 1 in Sports ➔ Cycling
If you mean outside of competition, yes, but as the first gentleman stated you should ask the other rider or check with him to make sure he is okay with it.
Last Saturday on the return leg of my ride, another cyclist passed me. I would add that he didn't alert me that he was passing, but that is another matter. I decided to pursue him. I thought I was spent, but I found myself sticking with him. I was surprised I still had some gas left in the tank.
Eventually, I caught him and I called out, "I hope you don't mind if I draft behind you." He said, "No problem." Of course with him leading the way I was able to maintain a higher cadence with greater efficiency. We maintained a speed of about 20 MPH for several miles and along the way we got to talking. I learned as much about him as I could expect in a short time, where he was going, what he was doing, etc. Curiously, we never exchanged names. However, as we rode I actually started to feel much better and I asked if he didn't mind me taking the lead for a while and pick up our pace before we had to go our separate ways on the trail. I pushed us to 26 MPH before settling in at 23 MPH for the next couple of miles. It was a great feeling and I am certain I would not have been able to maintain the increased tempo without his help. I also think he was glad for the little burst before he hit a more hilly part of his route.
Again, make sure you ask the stranger you meet about drafting behind him, but you might make a new friend or at least an acquaintance who might make your ride and his that much more enjoyable. Happy trails!
2006-08-09 16:11:00 · answer #1 · answered by metimoteo 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're drafting off someone then they are doing you a favor. So you should always talk to them first and see if it's ok. The other cyclist may be doing training or other activities in which your drafting might be a distraction.
If the other cyclist is cool with you drafting, make sure to do your part and take some pulls yourself.
2006-08-09 22:35:41 · answer #2 · answered by Brillig 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You can but it is not recommended. If the other rider does not know what they are doing, they might wreck you. Ride with someone you know, or ask to draft before doing so.
2006-08-09 22:29:47 · answer #3 · answered by uao621 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes, just let them know you are there, and just be extra alert for any sudden movements out of the ordinary..
I usually only draft behind someone who looks like they know what they are doing (ie. they wear a helmet, ride a decent bike-not cheap, and proper apparel)
2006-08-09 22:42:28 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you introduce yourself to them and say hi. may be ask him/her if they want to paceline to exchange work.
2006-08-09 22:32:45 · answer #5 · answered by Mike 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure you can!!!!!!!!
2006-08-09 23:00:07 · answer #6 · answered by Chris C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋