A gruppetto (also an “autobus”) consists of riders who remain behind the peloton at the rear during mountain stages. They do so to reach within the cut-off mark in time. They maintain an even pace and sacrifice their own objective.
The gruppetto riders collaborate—taking turns at the front and remaining together—to prevent anyone getting behind or lost. The cooperative group preserves group and individual positions, prevents riders from being swept by the broom wagon, and navigates difficult mountain stages. The gruppetto is not competing for victory, but still exhibits cohesion and the motivation to continue.
