HMS, TIP EQ-Bank 374 MC

A road cyclist is racing on a course with several sharp corners when heavy rain begins.

Which tactical adjustment is most appropriate?

Brake earlier and take corners at a lower speed, then accelerate out of each corner
Ride closer to the wheel in front to save energy in the difficult conditions
Attack through the corners, where rivals are likely to slow down
Keep normal cornering speed but brake harder in the middle of each corner

Show Answers Only

\(A\)

Show Worked Solution

A is correct: Wet roads reduce tyre grip. Braking before the corner and taking it more slowly lowers the risk of crashing, and accelerating out of the corner limits the time lost.

Other options:

B is incorrect: Drafting saves energy, but riding closer in the wet is dangerous. Spray reduces vision and stopping distances are longer, so the risk of a collision increases.
C is incorrect: Attacking where grip is lowest greatly increases the risk of crashing, which would cost far more time than it could gain.
D is incorrect: Braking hard mid-corner on a wet surface is likely to cause the tyres to skid. Speed should be reduced before the corner.