Originally Posted by
Hikebikerun
Thus leading to my question: how long (time/distance) is it normal for each person to pull in this situation? Is the person behind supposed to pull ahead when rested, or wait until the person in front backs off and pulls to the side/behind you? Are there any hand signals indicating a desire to switch positions? Does the answer change if we are talking about a small/medium size group vs just 2 solo guys?
If you haven't talked about it and agreed on anything than there is no "normal" time/distance for each person to pull.
Personally, if someone drafts me for a while then goes around in front, I'll make an effort to drop back so I'm not drafting. Much like the person in your story did.