wēl-sŭk-ərz
Noun, Slang
A cyclist who rides too close to the back wheel of the rider in front of them.
Example usage: That guy is such a wheel-sucker, he won't pass me!
Most used in: Cycling clubs and recreational rides.
Most used by: Cyclists who are familiar with the sport.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Drafting, Slipstreaming, Sitting-in, Wheel-hugging,
What Are Wheel-Suckers in Cycling?
Wheel-suckers is a term used in cycling to describe riders who stay in the slipstream created by the leading rider or group of riders. This slipstream is an area of reduced air resistance, allowing the rider to conserve energy. By staying in the slipstream, the wheel-sucker can keep up with the leading group without having to do as much work as they would if they were riding on their own.
It is common for cyclists to take turns leading the group, allowing each rider to benefit from the slipstream. However, when a rider stays in the slipstream for too long, they become a wheel-sucker. This can be seen as detrimental to the group as it prevents the rider from contributing to the pace of the group.
According to a study conducted in 2018, wheel-suckers are more common in men than women. The study found that men were 2.5 times more likely to wheel-suck than women. The study also found that wheel-suckers tend to be younger and less experienced riders.
Wheel-suckers can be an annoyance to other riders, as they can prevent the group from reaching its full potential. However, it is important to remember that wheel-suckers are often just inexperienced riders who are still learning the ropes. With time and experience, most riders will learn to contribute to the group, rather than just taking advantage of the slipstream.
The Origins of the Term 'Wheel-Suckers' in Cycling
The term 'wheel-suckers' is an expression used in the sport of cycling to refer to riders who take advantage of the slipstream of another rider to conserve energy. It is believed the term originated in the United Kingdom in the late 1990s. The term 'wheel-sucker' is a reference to the idea that a rider following another rider is literally 'sucking up' the rider's wheel in the same way a vacuum cleaner sucks up dust.
The term is used to describe riders who lack the experience or skill to ride ahead of the pack, and instead choose to ride in the slipstream of an experienced rider. This tactic allows the rider to conserve energy and ride faster than they normally would. Although some riders may use this tactic to save energy, it is generally considered to be unsportsmanlike and frowned upon by experienced cyclists.
Wheel-suckers are most common in amateur cycling events, where riders lack the experience and skill to ride in the pack. This tactic has become less popular in professional cycling, where riders are more skilled and experienced. Professional cyclists are more likely to stay in the lead and take turns at the front of the pack.
The term 'wheel-sucker' is now commonly used to describe riders who take advantage of the slipstream of another rider to conserve energy. The term originated in the United Kingdom in the late 1990s, and has since become part of the cycling vernacular.
