Drahft-ing
Verb, Noun
Drafting is the act of riding behind another cyclist to reduce wind resistance and increase speed.
Example usage: I'm drafting behind my friend so I can keep up with their pace.
Most used in: Cycling clubs, group rides, or races.
Most used by: Competitive cyclists or recreational riders in a group setting.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 3
Also see: Drafting, Slipstreaming, Wheel-sucking, Tucking,
What is Drafting in Cycling?
Drafting, also known as slipstreaming, is a technique used in cycling to reduce air resistance and increase speed. It involves a cyclist riding close behind another cyclist, thus reducing the amount of air resistance they have to push against. This allows the cyclist to conserve energy while riding faster.
The leading cyclist is said to be “breaking the wind”, while the trailing cyclist is “sitting in the slipstream”. This technique can be used for both individual and group rides. In a group ride, the cyclists will take turns at the front to share the effort of breaking the wind.
Drafting can be an effective way to increase speed, as studies have shown that a cyclist can save up to 40% of their energy while drafting. This can be especially useful during long rides, as it allows the cyclist to conserve energy while still maintaining a high speed.
Drafting is an important skill to learn for any cyclist, as it can help them ride faster and further with less effort. With the right technique, a cyclist can use drafting to their advantage and become a faster, more efficient rider.
.The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Drafting'
Drafting, or slipstreaming, is a technique used by cyclists to reduce air resistance and energy expenditure. The concept of drafting was first documented in 1878 when cyclist Charles Terront wrote about the technique in the French newspaper Le Vélocipède Illustré. He detailed how cyclists could save energy by riding in the slipstream of another cyclist.
The term 'drafting' was first used in the United States in 1895, in an article published in the Boston Globe. The article described how cyclists could move faster and with less effort when riding in the slipstream of another cyclist. The term has since become a popular term in cycling culture.
Drafting is now a common technique used by cyclists of all levels and is seen in many professional cycling races. The technique is still used to reduce air resistance and save energy, and can be used to great effect in group rides and races.
