I overtook a bloke on a MTB last weekend. Going at my own pace, and he at his pace. I had him in front of me for maybe a half mile. No drama, said 'Morning' as I went past. 300 yds further on I hear this weird sound. A bit like tinnitus. Another 50 yds and the road begins to kick up. Still at my own pace I find I have to get up and stand on the pedals when the sound gets louder and I realise what it is. It's the sound of big tyres.
Mr MTB is pissed that I overtook him and he comes round me grunting like a pig. No eye contact, no chat, just a grim determination to 'get me' no matter what.
With all those gears he made it to the top of the hill long before me of course and still at my own pace I found myself catching him up again.
So what do I do? Go round him again, give him either a cold stare or a cocky grin? Pull alongside and ask if he wants a push? Ride up and pass the time of day?
None of the above. I stayed 25yds behind him for the next couple of miles until I turned off.