5 ms·
If you ever rode regularly with a large group of bicyclists, you have probably have done the same or will do the same as you gain more experience. It comes nat
by jmclnx 4mo ago
If you ever rode regularly with a large group of bicyclists, you have probably have done the same or will do the same as you gain more experience.
It comes naturally because you want to avoid a direct head wind. Granted it does not take the full shape of birds of fish, but on a 2-D level it is a similar process.
Granted, I am ignoring the impact of traffic and roads that are narrow. Without either I think a large group of cyclists will form a V pattern similar to geese.
- efskap 4mo agoThat's a really cool connection, and even the Wikipedia article mentions the similarity to birds. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peloton#Formations https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peloton#Formations It doesn't mention V shapes, though. I guess since a cyclist isn't generating lift, there are no wingtip vortices to exploit by forming such a shape. > The shape or formation of the peloton changes according to multiple factors. Comparatively high power output efforts due to high-speeds on flat topography, a strong headwind or inclines (hills) tends to spread out or lengthen the formation, often into single file. A slow pace or brisk tailwind in which cyclists' power outputs are low result in compact formations such that riders ride side-by-side, often filling roads from one side to the other.