Why is everyone on 99 noob?

Because that doesnt cost any energy, it makes it easier to stay in the front

The downside of this, is that if the peloton is upping the pace your riders will keep in front and maintain in that pace, if they have lower STA stats they'll tire out before the race ends.

Notice their hart rates are above 170, that should be kept lower before the final KM's.

hmmm