For cyclists, whether in team events or individual races, correctly applying the technique of drafting (riding closely behind another cyclist) is a major factor in securing victory. This is because when a rider follows another, they can take advantage of the slipstream created as the lead rider breaks through air resistance, which helps propel the bike forward and reduces the energy expended by the following rider.
Key Points of Drafting Technique:
First, reduce the distance to the rider ahead—just enough so it doesn’t obstruct your vision and allows you to easily observe the road ahead. On roads, the typical drafting distance is around 15–30 centimeters. At the same time, pay attention to wind direction and force. When facing headwinds, one rider should lead, while others form a single-file line behind, staying 15–30 cm to the left or right of the lead rider. If the wind is coming from the left, follow on the right rear side of the lead rider; if from the right, follow on the left rear side. In stronger crosswinds, stay closer to the rider ahead; with lighter winds, you can maintain a slightly greater distance. When going downhill, move a bit further to the side; during turns, stay slightly behind to avoid accidents.
While drafting, keep your head slightly lifted and eyes focused straight ahead. You should still have peripheral vision of the rear wheel of the rider in front. If you only look down at your own front wheel, you risk falling if an obstacle suddenly appears ahead. Of course, in team races where traffic has stopped and the road is flat, briefly lowering your gaze to rest your neck muscles is permissible.
Collisions between two riders are common during drafting, often occurring when the front wheel of the trailing rider hits the rear wheel of the rider ahead, causing a loss of balance and a fall. In the event of such a collision, stay calm. The rider in front should continue pedaling steadily, while the rider behind should not brake abruptly—just ease off slightly. If you’re about to hit the rider ahead on the left, lean your body and bike gently to the right while turning the handlebars right; this will help separate the two bikes. Apply the same movement to the left in case of a right-side collision.
To master proficient drafting skills, in addition to specific training, it should be integrated into every training session. When starting out with drafting practice, maintain a slightly greater distance—about 30–50 cm. As your cycling skills improve, gradually reduce that distance to 15–30 cm. Begin with two-person drills, then progress to three or four riders. At the same time, specifically train in techniques to safely recover from collisions to prevent potential accidents.
Strengthening a cyclist’s handling skills and improving their ability to adapt in various complex situations is a proactive way to prevent falls. Due to the nature of cycling, collisions and falls can occur unexpectedly during intense training or races. If a fall seems imminent, stay composed and don’t panic. Don’t let go of the handlebars too early, nor close your eyes and passively await the fall. Just before your body touches the ground, quickly pull your feet out of the pedals. Protect your head, and consciously aim to land on your shoulder or back, using a rolling motion to lessen the impact.