So, I flatted again for the 4th time this month and of course, it was the rear tire again. I still don't get how the rear derailleur works and it was only a couple of miles to my car, so I walked. I was by myself and there wasn't any help.... On the way a pick up truck stopped with the owner of a bike shop (who is also a club member) and he asked it there was anything wrong. I said a flat and I'd rather fix it at home. Anyway, how long is a tire supposed to last? He said about 1500-2000 miles. My odometer read 2700+ so I think it is time for new tires.

I have only been riding for 1 1/2 years and had never worn out tires before and did not know that old tires are much more sensitive to anything in the road. I am really sick of getting flats, so I splurged on Continental Gator Hardshell tires. I put them on myself at home for the practice. Anyone have experience with them? The reviews seem good. They have more rubber between the glass and thorns and the road. My first ride seemed faster than with the original tires. I ride a 2007 Specialized Ruby Comp.

I also wonder how people deal with riding alone. I don't like it as much as riding with a group or at least someone else. I feel like there is someone there in case something happens. When I am by myself I tend to stay more in town so that there is cell phone coverage, but the trade off is that there is more traffic. When I am with people I head out to more rural areas, but the hills limit cell phone coverage.

The problem is that I want to ride more than my friends (who ride at a similar speed). The club rides are problematic for me. I am well beyond the beginner rides, but the regular club rides are too fast for me. I can keep up in the flats, but lose the group if I miss a stoplight or on the hills. Then I end up riding alone, and I am out in the country - and I have ended up with a flat tire and no support (hence the reason for the flatproof tires). Any suggestions on coping with this feeling of being left? The only way to get better is to ride more often and I need to get over the fear of riding alone.