The PACE:

If you read SPORT RIDER magazine, you'll read a lot about riding the PACE. Basically, the PACE is a rate of speed that is fun, yet safe. It takes into account road conditions, rider abilities, rider fatigue, etc.

On the track, I routinely ride at 100% of my ability. When I go to 101%, I'm rewarded with a slide down the pavement, and maybe a 4-wheeled ride around the track (in a vehicle with a little flashing red light and horns :-). On the street, the maximum level I ride at is 70 to 80 percent of my ability. Since I have begun racing, I notice that I may ride a little faster on the street, but I actually feel like I am going slower. Also, I notice that I don't need to take every corner at full speed. I'll never be able to take a corner like I do on the track, so now I don't even bother. I no longer need to get a "rush" from every corner. If you find yourself regularly trying to "hang" corners, it's time you get to the track!

Before I started racing, I was continually riding at about 90% of my ability. In fact, this was one reason I decided to start racing. That 10% reserve was too small, and I had several instances where I was right at 100%. I didn't go down, but it was far too close. Without the ability to go fast at the track, I was searching for that "rush" at every possible moment.

Another thing about the PACE, is that it means keeping the speed down on the straights. Any 'squid' can turn the throttle, but triple digit speeds tend to attract the boys in blue quicker than taking a corner at a nice pace. Use the straights to tighten up the group, and give everyone a chance to relax before the next section of corners.