That was quite strange. I can't remember getting shelled on a descent before. Somebody had to be on the front pounding a 53 x 11 or 53 x 12 @ 130rpm+ to get them going that hard. If I had concentrated harder I never would have allowed any gap to open up, and I would have held the wheel. The gap was the problem yesterday. Wasn't expecting it, didn't think that would be a problem on a descent, couldn't close the gap once it opened and they dropped me. Live and learn.

One thing is for sure, the lower gear wouldn't have helped me in that situation. Not @ 39.5+ mph. Actually I find it's the reverse, when I'm on the rivet it's often the higher gear that will help me hang on. I have lots of experience in getting dropped, and in almost getting dropped but managing to hang on. That latter skill is how I make it to the end of these rides with guys like Dr. W. at the front driving the train.

I don't even know what the F I'm doing on the same Bike Forum, nation or planet with guys as fast as Dr. W. I should be riding a motorcycle in front of them with a guy on the back holding a chalkboard. But chasing them around on my bicycle is more fun (even if they do eject me out the rear now and again).