LB I think I was able to stay with him using a lot less power than that. These days ever since you suggested it was possible to freewheel on the down slopes I have been doing that and my times have improved drastically. Anywhere where there's a slight negative gradient you can spin it up and have a rest while pulling away from the competition. Not easy but it seems effective.Tried the same challenge today, and only managed to stay with him for 12 minI had to average 380 watts to do that.