After posting about why I continue to ride solo most of the time, I thought of all the others that completely enjoy riding with others and how, for many, riding together is what riding is about. This post is for you!!

In regards to “the group ride”, as a new rider a few seasons ago, I felt less than satisfied. I found myself either over my head riding with those that expected more than I was able to provide, or feeling like the odd woman out, trailing the group by a distance in an effort to not ride over my head. Quite the compelling irony!

My emotions on the subject have kept me riding alone a good part of the time, something my mother does not approve. For her tolerance, I have been attempting some group rides and have been pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Thinking of the most memorable and enjoyable group rides I’ve done, four pashnit.com rides come to mind: Kings-Sequoia 1, organized by Larry (Jester); the Katrina Relief Ride organized by my husband, Gary (Motowriter); The Hunny Ride, organized by Jim (Kluts); and, lastly, the Girly Ride, organized by me, if you can imagine!! I am in the process of organizing another one for this summer. Details can be found here: The 2009 Pashnit Girly Ride.

As the sport expands we have a growing number of newbie riders and many people anticipating their first group ride. In light of that, I’d like to revisit a web article I feel is essential reading for both newbie and veteran riders.

Thanks to my friend Rob for sending this wonderful information to me. I have read it more than once and have noted what I consider serious words of wisdom when considering group riding. Some of you will recognize this as coming from “The Pace” which has provided riders with many great hints regarding how to best moderate one’s riding pace for maximum enjoyment.

Keep in mind that the company of other more experienced riders can serve as a marvelous example of good riding skills but can also place undue stress on a new rider by creating a pace that is often too brisk or demanding. So it’s in our best interests to bear this in mind when entertaining a group ride: “I’ll ride with anyone once. Afterward, it’s my choice alone whether I ride with them again.”

The following is a long read, but well worth the investment. Ride safely… : )