Think your group ride is as fast as it could be? You’re probably saying, “I dunno, man. My local ride is full of strong riders, and we go super hard!”
Well, here’s the thing: effort does not equal speed.
Let me break it down with a situation I’ve seen play out countless times on group rides.
The Typical Tuesday Group Ride
You cross that imaginary line that says, It’s go time, and the group starts ramping up. you take the front, steadily increasing the pace, and signal to start a rotating paceline. Larry pulls through, but instead of holding a smooth pace, he surges, pushing the speed higher.
Larry holds on for 20–30 seconds before fading slightly. That’s Johnny’s cue to take over—but he comes around Larry with another surge, thinking he needs to prove his strength.
Unbeknownst to Johnny, the strongest rider in the group, Tejay, is next in line and ready to flex. Tejay powers to the front at the base of the first climb, putting in a big effort. By now, Larry and Johnny are spent from their hard pulls, and the rest of the group struggles to keep Tejay’s pace.
At the top of the climb, Tejay motions for someone to take over, but nobody is ready. Larry and Johnny are fried, and the others need time to recover. The group slows, catches its breath, and—once someone recovers—the cycle repeats:
- Gradual speed increase.
- Hard surge.
- Big dig on a climb.
- Recovery in agony.
Does this sound familiar?
Effort Without Skill = A Slow Ride
The scenario above makes for a tough ride, but not a fast one. Despite the effort, the lack of flow and constant surging drain the group’s energy.
For example, in Kansas City, the A-Group typically averages 21–22 mph. With better pacing and teamwork, those same riders could be cruising at 23, 24, or even 25+ mph. The raw materials are there—strong legs, good routes, and riders willing to work hard. What’s missing is skill and strategy.
Let’s break down how to make your group ride not just hard, but fast.
1. Choose the Right Paceline
Knowing whether to use a single-file or rotating paceline is key:
- Fewer than 5 riders: Use a single-file paceline. This minimizes the number of riders in the wind and maximizes recovery time.
- 6 or more riders: A rotating paceline is ideal. Each rider spends less time at the front, allowing for smoother, more sustained efforts.
However, in tight, technical sections, sticking to a single-file paceline may still be faster, even with a larger group.
2. Never Lose the Wheel
In a rotating paceline, gaps are the enemy. Letting even a small gap open disrupts the flow and forces everyone to work harder. Stay smooth and consistent to maintain momentum.
3. Adjust Paceline Speed to the Terrain
A good paceline isn’t just about holding a steady effort—it’s about adapting to the terrain:
- Flats: Maintain a steady rotation speed. This is your baseline.
- Downhills: Increase rotation speed. Use the natural momentum of the descent to slingshot around the rider in front, avoiding surges or braking.
- Climbs: Slow the rotation. Drafting benefits are minimal, so keep the effort smooth to avoid pushing the group into the red.
4. Climb as a Team
Big climbs often bring out egos, but hammering to the top only splits the group and slows the ride overall. If a rider made it into the A-Group, they’ve earned their spot—treat them as teammates for the day. Ride a steady pace that keeps the group together.
5. Respect Your Fellow Riders
Group rides are about the group—not your personal intervals. Stronger riders should hold back when needed, and weaker riders should push themselves to hang on. The goal is to challenge each other while maintaining the cohesion that makes group rides so effective and enjoyable.
6. Master the Flow
Road cycling doesn’t require much skill to ride hard, but it takes real finesse to ride fast in a group. Skills like pacing, wheel placement, and reading the flow of the pack make all the difference.
The Payoff: Fast, Fun, and Efficient Rides
Group rides are a chance to get a hard workout, enjoy the camaraderie of the cycling community, and experience the thrill of riding as a team. With a few adjustments, your group can add a couple of mph to its average speed and unlock the best part of group riding: the endorphin rush of a seamless paceline.
The next time you hit the road, challenge yourself to not just ride hard, but ride smart. Your group will thank you—and you’ll all go faster than you thought possible.
