drɑːftɪŋ tændəm
Noun, Verb
Riding a bicycle in a line with one rider behind the other, taking advantage of the slipstream to conserve energy.
Example usage: 'We went on a long ride and took turns drafting-tandem.'
Most used in: Road cycling in flat terrain.
Most used by: Experienced cyclists looking to conserve energy.
Popularity: 7/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Drafting-Tandem, Slipstreaming, Echelon, Paceline,
What is Drafting-Tandem Cycling?
Drafting-tandem cycling is a type of cycling that involves two cyclists riding together in a single line. This type of cycling is beneficial to both cyclists, as they can create a slipstream for each other, allowing them to conserve more energy than they would riding alone. Drafting-tandem cycling is especially useful in time-trial events, where cyclists compete against the clock.
The cyclist in the front, known as the 'lead cyclist', is responsible for setting the pace and breaking the wind for the cyclist behind. This allows the cyclist behind, known as the 'drafting cyclist', to conserve energy by riding in the slipstream created by the lead cyclist. Studies have shown that drafting-tandem cycling can increase the speed of the cyclists by up to 10%, with the drafting cyclist receiving up to a 70% reduction in aerodynamic drag.
Drafting-tandem cycling requires a high level of coordination between the two cyclists, as the lead cyclist must be able to maintain a steady pace and the drafting cyclist must be able to stay in the slipstream. Drafting-tandem cycling is not recommended for novice cyclists, as it requires a great deal of skill and experience in order to be successful.
.The Origin of the Term 'Drafting-Tandem' in Cycling
The term 'drafting-tandem' is used in the context of cycling to describe two cyclists riding side-by-side in a way that reduces the aerodynamic drag of the lead cyclist. This technique is believed to have originated in the Netherlands in the late 1950s.
At the time, the Dutch cycling team was looking for a way to improve their chances of success in road races. After experimenting with different formations, the team's coach discovered that two cyclists riding side-by-side could reduce the aerodynamic drag on the lead cyclist. This technique was dubbed 'drafting-tandem' and quickly spread throughout the cycling world.
Since then, 'drafting-tandem' has become a standard technique used by cyclists competing in road races. It is still a popular formation used by professional cyclists today.
