pay-s lahyn
noun
Pace Line is a formation of cyclists riding in a line, taking turns at the front to break the wind for those behind.
Example usage: The triathletes formed a pace line to help them make it to the finish line faster.
Most used in: Triathlon cycling events around the world.
Most used by: Triathletes looking to increase their speed.
Popularity: 8 out of 10.
Comedy Value: 2 out of 10.
Also see: Paceline, Peloton, Echelon, Rotating Paceline,
What is a Pace Line?
A pace line is a common formation used by cyclists when riding in a group. This formation involves riders taking turns leading the group, using the drafting effect of the riders behind to conserve energy. The leader will take the brunt of the wind resistance, allowing the other riders to draft in the slipstream of the leader, reducing the amount of energy expended. This formation allows the group to move faster than any one rider would be able to on their own.
In a pace line, the riders will take turns leading the group, with the leader typically staying at the front for a short period of time before dropping back to let the next rider take their place. This process is repeated until the group reaches its destination, allowing each rider to have a break from the wind resistance and conserve energy. The pace line can also be used on climbs, with the riders taking turns to set the pace.
Pace lines are commonly used in competitive cycling races, such as the Tour de France. During the race, teams will use pace lines to conserve energy and move as quickly as possible. Studies have found that a team of riders in a pace line formation can travel up to 30% faster than a single rider cycling alone. This makes the pace line a key tactic for cycling teams aiming to win races.
.The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Pace Line'
The term 'Pace Line' has been used to describe the formation of cyclists riding together for centuries. The term first appeared in the late 1800s in the Netherlands, where it was used to describe the practice of cyclists riding together in a line to save energy and increase speed.
The practice of a Pace Line was popularized in the early 1900s by Dutch cyclists, who used it to break long-distance records and compete in races. By the 1950s the term had spread to the United Kingdom, where it was used to describe a group of cyclists riding together in a line.
The term 'Pace Line' has become a staple of modern cycling, and is used to describe a formation of cyclists riding together in a line to save energy and increase speed. The Pace Line is still used today by amateur and professional cyclists alike to break long-distance records and compete in races.
