Whether or not you will ride alone, definitely practice changing flats. I was fortunate enough to discover my first flat (rear wheel naturally!) at home a few weeks ago. I now feel far better prepared than I did when I only had theoretical knowledge of changing a flat, or had changed one with someone instructing me.

I am a new rider (just started last year) and I too struggle with the "ride alone or not" question. For now, I mostly only ride alone in NYC (I know the streets and the subway stops if I need to bailout!). Out of town (where I prefer to ride), I'm concerned about the combination of lack of skill as a new rider as well as zero sense of direction. I am trying to psych myself up to do some rides that I've done with groups, where I'm more familiar with the roads, and know the roads are well traveled by other cyclists.

I enjoy and learn a lot on group rides but they tend to start late and I'm an early morning person. Especially an issue in warmer weather.

But whatever you do . . . keep riding. Set a mileage goal for yourself each week and do whatever you need to do to meet it. My confidence level has increased enormously!