I may be disagreeing somewhat with everyone. I don't think there's anything wrong with trying to catch up to and pass another cyclist out on the road. I think it can be a fun way to challenge oneself. It can break up the grind. I do realize the other cyclist may be in the middle of a long ride, or on a recovery day, or whatever, so just because you catch and drop the other guy, doesn't mean you are a better rider. So I guess I think the "one-sided race" is fine for fun as long as you understand what it means. I bet most riders here probably speed up - maybe even subconsciously - if they see another unknown rider ahead on their route.