Let's do a refresher on a primary skill in cycling: drafting. The advantage of riding close behind another cyclist is great and the danger is minimal when you use the right technique.
The best way to learn is to pair up with an experienced rider. So if you're an old hand, help a newcomer learn. If you're a newbie, find a vet who's willing to help.
In this example, we'll assume you're the rookie. Here's the drill:
Ride at a moderate pace on a flat, low-traffic road. Put your front wheel about 3 feet (1 m) behind your guru's rear wheel. As you feel comfortable, get a bit closer -- 2 feet, then 18 inches (46 cm).
Notice how the draft is stronger when you're closer. Feel how the slipstream moves slightly to the side in a crosswind. Protection increases to the right of your partner's wheel when the wind is from the left, and vice versa.
Good drafting depends on smooth, even pedaling. If you pedal and coast, pedal and coast, you'll find yourself getting too close to your partner or too far back. Keep the crank turning and use slightly more or less pedaling force to maintain a constant gap.
Next, practice rotating the lead, using this technique:
The front rider checks over her shoulder for traffic, wiggles her elbow as a signal, drifts a couple of feet to one side (into the crosswind or determined by road conditions or traffic) and slows slightly by soft-pedaling.
You take the lead not by accelerating but by keeping your speed constant as your partner slows. Pedaling will feel a bit harder because you're bucking the wind. Glance at your cyclecomputer to make sure your speed stays steady.
Stay close as you pass each other while rotating the lead. The closer your shoulders are, the less wind each of you will be pushing and the narrower your combined width. That's important so motorists can deal safely with your presence.
When you're the person dropping back, begin accelerating slightly when your front wheel is beside your partner's rear wheel. Then you can slip in behind before a gap opens.
