Is it ok to draft really closely behind strangers while cycling?

[brainhulk]

I just joined my friend's cycling challenge, so i'm going to have to hit the road bike to pile on the miles.

I noticed that it makes it much easier to be directly behind someone so you have less wind resistance to pedal against. I noticed some people looked like they were annoyed i never passed but stayed right behind them.

Is it bad etiquette?

 

[highland145]

Group ride, I'm not seeing a problem.

 

[Ns1]

it's bad etiquette to draft behind someone w/o getting their OK.

 

[JulesMaximus]

I don't mind if someone hops on my wheel for a while as long as they also take a turn pulling. Use hand signals to point out hazards and don't do anything suddenly. As long as they're paying attention it shouldn't be a problem. I've logged thousands of miles in small groups and never had a problem with someone being on my wheel or me being on someone elses wheel... even strangers.

 

[MtnMan]

I just joined my friend's cycling challenge, so i'm going to have to hit the road bike to pile on the miles.

I noticed that it makes it much easier to be directly behind someone so you have less wind resistance to pedal against. I noticed some people looked like they were annoyed i never passed but stayed right behind them.

Is it bad etiquette?

Get in front and do your share of the work, or tailgate an 18 wheeler.

 

[MrSquished]

it's bad etiquette to draft behind someone w/o getting their OK.

this. get their OK and then take turns taking the lead. otherwise join some group rides