Everyone has been dropped at some point in their cycling career (unless you’re a time trialist that trains exclusively by themselves, in which case you aren’t really a cyclist). Getting dropped is no fun, especially when there are a bunch of spectators at the race giving you pity claps/cheers. By the end of the race, your pride is a critically low levels.

Leading the chase group at the 2012 Temple Criterium

Fortunately, there is an opportunity to save your pride! All you have to do is implement one of the following “reasons” so your cycling friends will nod sympathetically and your non-cycling friends will still hold you in high esteem and be none the wiser.

1. Someone crashed in front of you

This classic line that employes the time-honored tactic of passing off the blame to someone else.

2. Dropped chain

Ah drat! The dastardly devious chain! This excuse is prevalent across all levels of cycling, even as far up as being a factor in the winner of the 2010 Tour de France.

3. Cramps

Another classic. Better still, no one can tell if you’re lying!

4. Flat tire

“Yeah man, I flatted out. Shit luck.” Fortunately, flat tires can easily be faked and, according to Sean Kelly, many professional riders will let the air out of their tires if they’re dropped in the last 3 kms (to take advantage of the 3 km rule).

5. Somebody ahead of you dropped the wheel

Like #1, this classic line transfers the blame to someone else (but doesn’t explain what you were doing behind the flagging rider in the first place).

6. Sick/On Antibiotics

“Yeah man, I’m not racing today because I have mono, bronchitis, and the flu” – overheard at the 2012 Steven’s circuit race.

Feeling under the weather? No need to feel the pressure of finishing in the main peloton as you already have an ace in the hole!

7. “Mechanical”

Can’t think of a good reason why you got dropped? Just say you had a “mechanical” and racers of all ability levels will nod their heads knowingly.

What’s the best excuse you’ve heard (or used) for getting dropped? No judgements here!