Scared in Group Rides

[TigerMom]

I have read a lot about group ride etiquette, but I am still scared because I feel too crowded in. I went on my first group ride (Team Velocity in Fullerton, CA's slow group apparently goes at 13-15mph for 30-35 miles).

Although none of us are trying to draft, we are still riding close enough together that if one rider falls, we might topple over like Dominoes. We either have no bike lanes or a very thin bike lane...so the bikes are either in the traffic lane or about to fall into the water ditch (I don't know what you call the strip of concrete that collects water that lies between the street and the curb).

Also, I am very clumsy, so I cannot lift my hand (neither left nor right) to signal any warnings. I can barely lift my hand for a few seconds to scratch an itch or wipe my nose.

I tried to stay towards the back to give myself more space, in case anyone in front of me swerves or makes sudden stops due to tire popping/dead animals in the bike lane, etc.. However, the group told me that I should try to ride in the group or else they will accidentally lose me, ie. at Traffic Signal stop lights, etc.

I have no problem keeping up with the pace...which is just right for me (not too hard, but hard enough to be a slight challenge).

Any advice?


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2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle

[bellissima]

TigerMom congratulations on completing your first dreaded group ride Just keep riding with a group, it does get easier everytime you do it. Make sure to keep alert and try to have fun

[tulip]

You might want to find a group that doesn't insist on riding in a tight pack, at least for now since you are evidently a very nervous and tense rider. The group rides I do have cue sheets so riders can find their way and don't have to stay tight with the group. Most riders string out, too. Frankly, your ride does sound a bit tight, especially with a nervous rider in the pack (that would be you).

Getting more comfortable on the bike in general will also help. It sounds like you are not at all relaxed when you ride, not able to take your hands off drink water or signal.

Keep riding, though; it will get better!

[Grits]

As long as you feel like you could find your way back home if you did get dropped, I'd tell them not to worry about losing you and that you are more comfortable riding in the back of the group. Since it is a pace you feel comfortable with, you can probably keep up and manage not to get left behind.

If they aren't ok with that, or you aren't on the chance you do get left behind, then I'd find a different group or at least wait until I got more comfortable riding, could make signals, and generally feel more secure in my riding skills.

[Kiwi Stoker]

Don't watch the wheel infront of you, look at the rider's hips. Really does help and stops "wheel fixation".

[murielalex]

Don't watch the wheel infront of you, look at the rider's hips. Really does help and stops "wheel fixation".

Thanks for that tip. I'm also learning to ride in a group, and find my whole body tenses up because I'm so nervous. I'm working on it, and the group I've started with is small, all women, and helpful, and is a no-drop group. I'm hoping to get more comfortable and confident, but so far it's not taking.