Originally Posted by
dsmyth12
I have done a few group rides the past few weeks as well. The last couple I did with B graders (in Australia) averaging 30-32 km/h over 2-2.5 hours. Managed to stick with them reasonably well until towards the end. Idk how that stacks up because as I said, I've only been cycling for four weeks.
Very good performance for a beginner. But also good to know that even with smaller FTP than yours, I can easily average 33-34 km/h in groups. The effect of drafting is impressive. From my experience, I think they are right in saying that one can easily gain power savings of 20-30% by drafting a group. Maybe extreme 40% if you "suck" the wheels in front of you at 5-10 cm distance, or pull your front wheel 10-20 cm between the rear wheels of 2 parallel riders in front of you (I do it sometimes, although it is a little dangerous).
So: Don't be surprised if properly drafting a group at 36 km/h requires similar power as solo riding at less than 30km/h
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