Further to all the Wiggins threads.

Obviously it is much easier to ride in a bunch on the flat.

But how much energy/ effort can be saved by riding uphill on the wheel of another rider? I have felt the benefit myself when riding in a bunch in the flat, but not on a climb. But then thinking about it I don’t remember ever following someone’s wheel that close when climbing in a bunch. The group rides I’ve been on tend to fragment rather on the climbs, then regroup at the top?

Is it more the benefit of matching the pace of another rider- rather than a slipstream making the climb easier?

I find there is mild aerodynamic benefit on moderate gradients and also its a psychological thing tyo just follow someone else. You dont have to fret about your own HR/power. You either can or can’t follow them.

the slipstream effect is very noticeable. Don’t forget even when pros go slow it isn’t really slow.