I've recently been riding with a new group who do harder, faster rides than I am used to, and are much more disciplined in the way they keep the bunch organised.

On one section of the ride (which is a fast 100km with undulating hills) the group forms a paceline, with speeds of around 40-60kph, depending on the hills. I like to join in the paceline, and usually ride quite strongly, but because of the differing abilities, the hills and varying speeds, the group becomes a little disorganised during this section of the rides. On the last two occasions when I have done this ride, I have had people move in front of me suddenly, or suddenly slow while I am still moving quite quickly. Because there are riders on one side of me and fast moving traffic on the other side, I do the only thing available, which is grab the brakes. I understand the risks of this and that it is not the ideal thing to do - especially when I got an earful from the guy on my wheel, and then some more abuse from the unofficial "boss" of the bunch at the next stop. I was told to "never, ever" brake like that in a bunch.

The point was well taken, and I accept that braking - especially suddenly - in a fast moving group can be very dangerous. I know there are other ways of slowing - moving into the wind, for example - but when there is nowhere else to go, and the options are to brake quickly or go into the rider in front, what choice do I have?

Any thoughts on the best way to handle a situation like this? Is there a safe way to slow quickly in a fast group without much room to maneouvre?