Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

leed owt

verb, noun

Lead Out is when a cyclist accelerates ahead of another rider to help them gain speed.

Example usage: The lead cyclist began to pull ahead, leading out his teammate.

Most used in: Track cycling and time trials.

Most used by: Track cyclists and time trialists.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 3/10

Also see: Drafting, Slipstreaming, Paceline, Windshielding,

.

What is the Lead Out in Time Trial Cycling?

Lead Out is a term used to describe a tactic employed in Time Trial cycling. It is the act of a cyclist leading out their teammate in the time trial, pushing them to the finish line. This can be done by pacing them and drafting them in a group, or by providing a “lead out” ride, where the cyclist in front sets a steady tempo, allowing the teammate to follow in their slipstream, then accelerating in the last few hundred metres, allowing their teammate to pass them and cross the line first.

Lead Outs can be an effective way of taking advantage of the aerodynamic advantages of drafting, and can help a cyclist to ride faster and finish higher in the rankings. In fact, studies have shown that drafting can reduce drag by up to 40%, making it an important tactic for riders to use in order to gain an advantage.

Lead Out is an important tactic for Time Trial cyclists, and can make all the difference in a race. It is a great way to help a teammate to the finish line, and can help to shave seconds off a rider’s time and help them to finish in a higher position. In the end, it’s all about the time, and Lead Out can be a great way to get there.

.

The Origins of the Term “Lead Out” in Time Trial Cycling

The term “lead out” originated in the sport of time trial cycling. It refers to a tactic whereby a rider helps another rider reach their maximum speed in the final stages of a race. This technique is commonly used in time trials, where riders are competing against the clock.

The term “lead out” was first used in the late 1950s in the United Kingdom. The term was used to describe a technique used by two cyclists riding together in a time trial. One rider would “lead out” the other, drafting them to the finish line in order to help them reach their maximum speed.

In the years since its introduction, the term “lead out” has become widely accepted in the cycling world. It is now used to describe any tactic used by two cyclists to help each other reach their maximum speed in a race. The technique is still widely used in time trials around the world, and is an essential part of the race.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER