Group Rides Up and Down:

Just what is the deal with group rides?

I guess it depends on what we want from them.  There are a lot of reasons for riding in a group, and some of them are good.

There is camaraderie, the social element of our sport.  There can be a positive training benefit.  There is the “safety in numbers” feeling.  Some are intentional learning experiences.  Sometimes, there is a “theme” to them that provides entertainment.  And, of course, there seems to be the ever present competitive aspect.

Training?  Wisely does the sage Friel say,  “Ride in groups seldom.”  The problem with using a group ride as a training activity is that one never knows what one is getting.  It’s very hard for just two people to agree on, and complete a given training activity.  I’m tempted to say that in any ride of three or more people, someone will be prosecuting an agenda that is contrary to what you should be doing.

Be prepared to ride alone and in small groups for the majority of your riding, and especially for your training work.

It’s hard to know just what is going to happen on a group ride.  Even “old and reliable” rides can change character in a moment.  About all it takes is for a small group of folks with a different agenda to show up.  Suddenly your favorite social/recreational ride becomes a race without rules.

What do you do about this?  That depends on you, and on your objectives.  If you truly want to ride that way, then go ahead.  If you want to preserve your ride in its former style, the best tip is to ignore the newcomers and their hypertensive, Type-A agenda.  Keep riding the way you have, with the folks you enjoy.  You won’t even know the “fast guys” are there.  Besides, they will likely go someplace else after a while.  And take this to heart; riding in a racing fashion, without a definite agenda is not training.  It’s just taking risks and getting tired.

If you are new to a ride:  How do you know what to expect?  First off read about it.  Does the posting on the club’s website describe packing and such?  Is there a ride leader?  Is it possible to contact that individual?  If so, you should do that.  Contact the ride leader.  Ask about the character of the ride.  You’ll find that most ride leaders are sincere, and will not attempt to mislead you.  If you are looking for a quad burner, you might want to pass on the more recreational rides.  On the other hand, if you are looking for a sociable ride with a regular route, one that is active in recruiting new comers, you would want to avoid anything that is listed as “training,” or fast paced.  Tell the ride leader what you are looking for.  You will quickly learn if a particular ride will match your objectives.

Keep Trying!  Finding group rides that work for you can be frustrating.  Please don’t let one or two disappointments turn you away.  This can be a tough search, but it’s worthwhile, and you will learn a thing or two along the way.