I have a lightweight hybrid with 21 speeds that I rode on my first group ride. The group is definitely more social but there were definitely some hardcore riders with us that I managed to keep up with for a good while before my endurance started giving out. My bike didn't feel at all cumbersome. I'm considering a used entry-level bike now for longer rides but know that my lightweight hybrid can definitely take me a good distance. Check your local Meetup.com for more social riding groups. That's where I found mine and I'm so glad I did!