Originally Posted by
Doge
Uh - no. As a beginning rider who has similar fitness and skill of the other riders, seems like the best way to go is copy.
And while I know those are not barriers, so a bit OT, if you look at the guy who dismounted was about a half to one bike lengths in front at the bottom and 1-2 bike lengths at the top. Riding looked slower, although both looked fast.
He kinda got his butt kicked on that, although the sponsors may have liked it and it was good video.
I agree, copying is a good way to learn the basics, until you are experienced enough to know when you might want to break the rules. I'm sure it helps him pace himself - I see some newer people get burned out on the first lap and then they are just dragging for the rest of the time.
And I agree with the riding up the steps - it seemed pretty slow. Still, going up that many steps without turning the cranks once was impressive looking.