WTF was that?

Be a Sharp Lookout for Your Group

Besides setting the right tempo, the lead rider in a paceline or pack has another vital responsibility: warning those behind of dangers in the road.

For riders who are drafting, potholes and debris are hard to see. They shouldn't need to worry about being led into danger.

But some people overdo their warnings. They yell "Pothole!" "Rock!" or "Dead skunk!" at full volume or even for minor obstacles. Others point at the object with such a violent gesture that they swerve dangerously.

Here's a better way to be the eyes of a paceline:
Alertly scan the road. You can't warn of dangers that you daydream out of existence. And if through inattention you spot something too late, your after-the-fact warning may do more harm than good. Surprised riders could veer in a panic, touch wheels and crash. So pay attention and look far enough ahead to smoothly lead the line past each hazard.
Point, don't shout. There's usually no need to call out the name of the obstacle. Your yell probably won't be understood by riders toward the back, anyway. Simply remove one hand from the bar and point down toward the side where the danger will be when you pass it. (Point down at about 45 degrees, not out, so the warning isn't mistaken for a turn signal.) Do this 5-10 seconds in advance, then move over smoothly.
A related technique is to tap the saddle or snap fingers with the hand that's coming off the bar, then point. The sound is just enough to wake up the rider behind.

Tip! One time a yell is helpful is when nasty stuff like glass, gravel, sand or ice covers the lane, like part way through a corner, and there is no way around it. As soon as you realize the predicament, call out the hazard so riders behind can fend for themselves. Same goes when you spot a dog up the road.