That Moment.

Whenever I'm riding with a group of stronger riders, this is what I desperately try to avoid: getting dropped.

A paceline. To be dropped is to be left behind by the group because the rider cannot sustain the pace required to stay with the group. Riding in a paceline reduces the aerodynamic drag significantly.

Riding with stronger riders is something I really enjoy because it makes me push myself more than I normally would. I'm not too sure what exactly it is that contributes more to the post-ride sense of achievement and satisfaction - if it is trying my hardest and giving it your all on the road or if it's the confidence (and ego) boost I get from not getting dropped by stronger riders. It could also be something more physical, chemical: the endorphin induced feeling-good post a hard workout. And of course, a guilt-free pass to eat whatever I want! I suspect it's a combination of all of them in my case.

There are crucial moments in a group ride that determine if you will finish with the group or get dropped and crawl back home alone. These are moments where you have to find that extra bit of motivation to keep going and not give up, dig deep like you wanted to when you saw Eddy Merckx or Jens Voigt ride, apply everything you've ever learned about cycling and try being as efficient (I'll bore you with that some other time) as you can be to give yourself a better chance. These are moments when time seems to have slowed down, moments I remember clearly for weeks or even months after the ride. They define the ride for me. They're like tests which you pass or not: pass when you've really given it your everything irrespective of if you got dropped or not. It's a battle with yourself, not others. It also helps to remind yourself during these times that the suffering is only going to be worse once dropped! 

I don't know about others but, interestingly, these are also moments when I have barely any recollection of the surroundings whatsoever - I could well be in heaven and it wouldn't matter - vague recollection at best. I only distinctly remember the pain, effort and mental strength (or lack thereof) that was required on my part. During these moments, in spite of being a serious gearhead, never did I find myself wishing I had aero equipment or a lighter bike, only the legs and the mental strength.

I'll leave you with this. The great man himself.