Why being dropped is good for you.

I've always thought training was overrated. Before I started to bike, I ran a lot. Running got me through grad school, stressful times with my employers, and even the occasional holiday period with the family. But, I never really trained. Getting ready for a 10K or the periodic half marathon usually meant for me just longer daily runs. It wasn't until I started to run with a group from Cal Poly that I learned about interval training and speed work on the track. I don't actually do intervals or speed work, but at least I know they exist.

I think the biggest difference between getting ready for 10K or marathon and getting ready to bike in Europe is understanding the pack mentality.  The pack instinct is different among runners than it is among cyclists. A small group of runners are more likely to moderate the pace during a training run to keep the group together. After all, someone left alone with only his or her feet is more likely to fall prey to natural hazards like mountain lions or bears. Not so if you're on a bike. First of all, you're much faster and second, you can always throw the bike at the oncoming animal. When you're on a bike, falling off the back, or being dropped, is the way the pack is trying to make you a better cyclist. Sort of like a mother bird throwing her chick out of the nest. "If you survive, you'll know how to fly."  Being dropped is the pack's way of saying, "we love you and if you survive you'll be a much better cyclist."  I find this approach to cycling very comforting. Especially on days like today when I was the last one up two climbs. It was the pull of the pack that got me up the hills and since I can't throw my bike far, also the fear of being eaten by a bear. And tonight, I'm probably a little better climber than I was this morning.