Originally Posted by
bruce19
I think that a big difference is that when one is racing the level of competition is inherently better developed and the riders "safer" at speed. The disparity in experience and skill with recreational riders can be stunningly huge. The recreational riders that I feel safest with are the ex-racers who actually know what can/should be done safely. I try to learn from them on every ride.
In the last Masters race that I did an ex-District Champ in the 1st row said loudly before the start: "Lets all go to work on Monday!"
There was general assent and we got on with it with no drama.
An experienced group without testosterone poisoning and the requisite skills must still exist today, but I'm not looking for it.
I agree that the recreational riders that I see on my local routes are best avoided, especially the "pacelines" that wobble and straggle without discipline or pace.
Solo miles for me,
-Bandera