TrainingPeaks Virtual uses the proprietary RPTR Engine (TM) (Patent Pending) based on a pure physics model for all its in-game mechanics. This means that riders obey the basic laws of physics – most importantly that you can’t have two people in the same place at the same time!
This means that positioning within a pack is important. You do not move freely about in a “blob”, and instead need to think about when to add effort – and how much – to move within the pack. TrainingPeaks Virtual does not use manual steering to do this. The AI algorithms for rider positioning automatically find gaps in the peloton, seek out the draft from other riders, and form echelons to protect from wind, etc. You will need to give careful attention to subtle changes in your power output to maintain or change your positioning within a group – just as you would when cycling outdoors – to maximize your chance for success.
Be Aware! When riding in a pack it is therefore much easier to get boxed in, and you’ll need to put in a burst to “push” your way through if you want to get out.
Draft
The draft benefit you receive, and that you give to others changes constantly as you move about the group. As a pure physics-based engine, the amount of drafting benefit you receive changes based on a large number of factors including your speed, the wind direction, distances and angles to the riders ahead, and the amount of “wake” that the rider gives off based on their size and speed. For ease of interpretation when you’re on the rivet giving your maximum effort, this is all condensed down into a simple indicator bar:
- If the bar is empty, you have no draft benefit.
- If the bar is increasing, you are getting more benefits.
- If the bar is decreasing, you are getting less benefit.
- If the bar is full, you are getting the maximum benefit.
