The Sticky Draft

Physics & Dynamics: The Sticky Draft

The Solve: Understanding the “magnetic” algorithm to maintain pack position and execute perfect breakaways.

Tactical Overview

The Sticky Draft is the game’s way of helping you stay on a wheel. Once you are within ~5 meters of a rider, the game “glues” you to their speed. While this is great for energy conservation, it becomes a “performance trap” when you need to move past a slower rider or respond to a surge.

The HUD (Head-Up Display)

Metrisch	Value	Tactical Impact
Activation Zone	2 – 12 Meters	The “Magnetic” pull is strongest at 5m.
Energy Savings	25% – 35%	Drastically reduces your required $W/Kg$ to maintain speed.
Breakout Surge	+0.5 to 1.0 $W/Kg$	The “tax” you must pay to snap the magnetic bond.
Visual Cue	Avatar Position	Your avatar will sit up and “hover” when the draft is locked.

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Mastery Protocols

1. Entering the “Glue”

When approaching a rider from behind, do not sprint into their wheel. Gradually increase power until you enter the 10m window, then ease off. The sticky draft will naturally “suck” you into the 2m-5m sweet spot and hold you there.

2. The Slingshot (Breaking Out)

To pass a rider, you cannot simply pedal 5 watts harder. The algorithm will keep you stuck. You must perform a 2-second “snap”—a sharp increase in power—to break the bond. Once your front wheel passes their rear wheel, the “stickiness” vanishes and you can settle back into your target pace.

3. The “Blob” Effect

In large groups, the sticky draft is amplified. The “magnetic” pull comes from multiple riders, making it easier to stay in but much harder to move toward the front. If you want to move up, you must do it on the outside of the pack where the “stickiness” is less concentrated.

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The Pathfinder Edge

Pro Tip: In a “Vegas effort” situation, use the sticky draft to recover. If you are on the limit, don’t try to lead. Sit in the “glue,” drop your HR by 5-10 BPM, and only break the bond when you see the 1km-to-go marker.