Drafting off the rider in front of you is great, but it's crucial to leave some space in between. Also, everyone in the pack needs to steer his own bike along a straight line, even if he blows a tire. This is especially true if another rider is drafting off him. Sudden, jerky movements can take down neighboring riders. He and Osler note that each can now anticipate what the other will do who will be late, who will get lost, who will sprint ahead, who will fall behind, and under what conditions.
Communication is also key to riding in a group.
When Novod and Osler bike together, they're constantly talking and signaling either what they're going to do next or what lies ahead. And they never ride without their helmets. Osler, a pediatrician at Somerville Hospital near Boston, keeps a cracked helmet perched in a visible place on his bookcase. And Novod would agree. Top Tips on Safe Cycling Buy products for safe road biking.