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A theoretical framework for protocooperative behavior in pelotons (groups of cyclists) is proposed. A threshold between cooperative and free-riding behaviors in pelotons is modeled, together comprising protocooperative behavior (different from protocooperation). Protocooperative behavior is a function of: 1. two or more cyclists coupled by drafting benefit, 2. cyclists' current power output or speed, and 3. cyclists' maximal sustainable outputs (MSO). Characteristics of protocooperative behavior include: 1. relatively low speed phase in which cyclists naturally pass each other and share highest-cost front positions, and 2. free-riding phase in which cyclists maintain speeds of those ahead, but cannot pass. Threshold for protocooperative behavior is equivalent to coefficient of drafting d, below which cooperative behavior occurs; above which free-riding occurs up to a second threshold when coupled cyclists diverge. These behaviors are also hypothesized to emerge in other biological systems involving energy savings mechanisms. Further, the tension between intra-group cooperation and inter-group competition is consistent with superorganism properties.Comment: 24 pages, 11 figures, 43 reference

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Energy saving mechanisms are ubiquitous in nature. Aerodynamic and hydrodynamic drafting, vortice uplift, Bernoulli suction, thermoregulatory coupling, path following, physical hooks, synchronization, and cooperation are only some of the better-known examples. While drafting mechanisms also appear in non-biological systems such as sedimentation and particle vortices, the broad spectrum of these mechanisms appears more diversely in biological systems including bacteria, spermatozoa, various aquatic species, birds, land animals, semi-fluid dwellers like turtle hatchlings, as well as human systems. We present the thermodynamic framework for energy saving mechanisms, and we review evidence in favor of the variation range hypothesis. This hypothesis posits that, as an evolutionary process, the variation range between strongest and weakest group members converges on the equivalent energy saving quantity that is generated by the energy saving mechanism. We also review self-organized structures that emerge due to energy saving mechanisms, including convective processes that can be observed in many systems over both short and long time scales, as well as high collective output processes in which a form of collective position locking occurs.

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