Quote Originally Posted by spokewench View Post
I lead women's rides, but I have never barred men if they would like to come along. If they are good riders, I expect them to be respectful and help teach; if they are just looking for a ride where they will not be dropped and can learn, I see no reason why they can't join. I always laughingly say at the beginning of a ride to a new male rider that I don't know "if you leave your testosterone at home, you are welcome" They seem to get the idea and I have never had a problem.
My (women's) bike club has an interesting policy. On our summer Wednesday night ride, it's strictly women. We've been known to ask guys who just happen to find us on the road and want to tag along to do so from a distance. During the winter, we have a Wednesday night ride that's co-ed, but men aren't allowed up front - they can't set the pace. And a few of the really kind sweeties ride sweep and keep the slowest rider (usually me!) company!