Hello! I am new to biking. I am training for a 50 mile ride the first of June. Mainly I have been using the bike at the gym, but I know it is nothing like actually getting out there. I am getting prepared! I just got some road tires for my hybrid, and a bike rack so that I can tote it around with me. I also plan on commuting to work when I can.

However - I am intimidated by a few things. First of all, since I have not done much biking in a long time I am a little sketchy on the rules of the road. I have a bike map and have planned out routes, but some areas I want to bike are not on there - like roads. What is the deal with biking on roads? Can you bike on any road even if there isn't a bike lane?

Another thing holding me back is that even though I have a friend to bike with, she can't go with me all the time, and she bikes more at a leisurely pace, while I am in pretty good shape and want to push myself a little more. So, I figure finding a group to go out with will help me to get miles on and learn the rules of the road. But - I don't have any idea how to find one!
Thanks!